Opening a business in Italy as a foreign national
Italy welcomes foreign entrepreneurs with various pathways depending on nationality. EU/EEA citizens face no restrictions, while non-EU citizens have dedicated visa programs designed to attract investment and innovation. The Italian Codice Civile places no limitations on foreign ownership of companies, making Italy an accessible destination for international business ventures.
EU/EEA citizens
Citizens of EU and EEA countries can establish a company in Italy without any special permits, thanks to the freedom of establishment guaranteed by EU treaties. You need an Italian tax code (codice fiscale), obtainable from the Agenzia delle Entrate or any Italian consulate abroad, and can then proceed with the standard company formation process. The codice fiscale can often be issued within a few days and is required for virtually all administrative and financial transactions in Italy.
Non-EU citizens: Investor Visa
Italy's Investor Visa program requires minimum investments of: 500,000 euros in an Italian company, 250,000 euros in an innovative startup registered in the special section of the Registro Imprese, 1 million euros in government bonds, or 2 million euros in philanthropy. The visa is valid for two years and renewable. Applications are processed by an interministerial committee through a dedicated online portal, with decisions typically issued within 30 days.
Startup Visa
The Startup Visa allows non-EU entrepreneurs to enter Italy with a validated business plan for an innovative startup. Applications are submitted online to the Ministry of Economic Development, with less stringent financial requirements than the Investor Visa. The project must demonstrate innovation, economic sustainability and growth potential. Approved applicants receive a one-year visa, convertible to a residence permit.
Essential documents
- Italian tax code (codice fiscale) – obtainable from consulates abroad
- Valid passport with appropriate visa (non-EU citizens)
- Residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) for non-EU residents already in Italy
- Proof of address or domicile declaration (dichiarazione di domicilio)
- Banking documentation for corporate account opening at an Italian bank
- Sworn translation (traduzione giurata) of foreign corporate documents if applicable
Choosing the right business structure
For foreign entrepreneurs, the SRL is typically the best choice: it offers limited liability, management flexibility and an accessible minimum capital (10,000 euros, or just 1 euro for the SRLS). The ditta individuale with regime forfettario can work for those starting small, offering a flat tax of 15% (5% for the first five years) on revenues up to 85,000 euros. An SPA (Società per Azioni) with 50,000 euros minimum capital is suited for larger ventures requiring external investment.
Practical tips
Engaging local professionals (commercialista, avvocato, notaio) is essential for navigating Italian bureaucracy. Processing times vary by region; Milan and Rome generally offer faster procedures due to greater experience with international clients. Budget 2-4 months from initial planning to full operational readiness. Opening a bank account as a non-resident can take 2-3 weeks, so start this process early.
Zunapro supports entrepreneurs worldwide in establishing their Italian business, from tax code application through to full operational launch.
