Episode #19
Italy's Golden Visa: What U.S. Expats Need to Know
In this episode of "Talking Expat Taxes," host Alex McGowin sits down with Michael Maxwell of Ariete Capital to break down Italy's investor visa - better known as the golden visa - and what it actually gets you. Michael explains the two routes most people take, including the €250,000 innovative startup investment, and why Italy's process stands apart: you get pre-approved before you invest, and you can hold a visa in six to seven months rather than waiting years. Alex and Michael also compare Italy to Portugal in the wake of the NHR changes and the shift from five to ten years for citizenship, walk through Italy's four special tax regimes for new residents, and cover the piece most people miss - that immigration residency and tax residency are two different things. If you're a U.S. citizen weighing a move, a plan B, or simply more time in Europe, this conversation lays out the trade-offs clearly.
