
Cost of Living in Italy with the Elective Residence Visa (2026)
How much does it cost to live in Italy with the Elective Residence Visa in 2026? Compare Tuscany, Puglia, and Lombardy, plus housing, insurance, and taxes.
Live in Italy without working, enjoying the dolce vita with financial peace of mind
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Everything you need to know about the elective residence visa
The Elective Residence Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who wish to live in Italy using independent financial means. It is the standard path for retirees, investors, and individuals with passive income who want to settle in Italy without employment.
Applicants must demonstrate stable passive income of at least β¬31,000 per year from pensions, investments, or annuities, increasing proportionally for each family member. A registered accommodation in Italy and full health coverage are also required. No work activity is permitted under this visa.
The residence permit is valid for one year and renewable as long as financial and accommodation requirements are met. It grants access to Italian healthcare and Schengen travel.
Ready to start your journey? Follow the steps below to understand the complete process.
May apply for this visa:
Non-EU citizens with demonstrable and stable financial availability of at least β¬31,000 per year for the main applicant (indicative amount)
Who meet the following requirements:
Those who have income or assets sufficient to guarantee sustenance without engaging in work activities in Italy
It is necessary to have accommodation in Italy (registered rental contract or property ownership)
Complete health coverage, private or enrollment in the National Health Service
It is not permitted to work or engage in professional activities in Italy with this visa
Timeframes for visa issuance
Processing times may vary based on the country where the application is submitted
How and where to submit the application
Application submission abroad is mandatory; it cannot be requested from within Italy
Complete document checklist for your application
All foreign documents must be apostilled (for countries adhering to the Hague Convention) or legalized at consulates, and subsequently translated into Italian with sworn translation.
With Future Italian we manage the entire elective residence visa process, from eligibility assessment to consular application submission. We guide you through every step with the expertise of those who know every detail of Italian regulations for elective residence visas.
From start to finish: here's everything that happens step by step
Tailored consultation to determine if the Elective Residence Visa is the right solution for you. Verification of financial requirements and specific case assessment.
How long does it take?
The elective residence visa requires thorough knowledge of consular procedures and specific financial requirements. With Future Italian, every step is guided by experts who understand the importance of achieving independence and serenity in Italy.
Tailored consultation to determine if the Elective Residence Visa is the right solution for you. Assessment of financial eligibility and specific case analysis.
Complete support in preparing and verifying all documentation, avoiding errors and delays. Coordination of sworn translations and legalizations.
Assistance in completing and submitting the application, with management of consular appointments. Support throughout the entire submission process.
Constant monitoring of the application and transparent communication at every step. Management of any supplementary requests from the Consulate.
Post-issuance assistance for residence permit, civil registry registration and any bureaucratic needs in Italy. Assistance for future renewals.
You enjoy your independence. We handle the bureaucracy. With Future Italian, you're never alone
Get answers to the most common questions about this service
Relocate to Italy with a clear, expert-led plan from day one.