Permesso di soggiorno per residenza elettiva
The residence permit for elective residence is the document that allows non-EU citizens to live in Italy without working by proving that they have independent economic resources from income, pensions, real estate or other lawful income not related to employment.
It is the right permit for those who wish to settle in Italy relying on their financial means and a home where they elect to reside.
Who can apply and requirements
This permit can be applied for by those who have obtained a visa for elective residence or by those who are already in Italy and are seeking conversion of a permit for employment, self-employment or family reasons. The “other family member” of an EU citizen may also apply for it.
To obtain the permit, you must have adequate economic resources, living arrangements (rented or owned), a health insurance policy valid in Italy against the risk of illness and injury, and a valid passport.
The required documents change according to the situation.
If you enter Italy on an elective residence visa, you must present:
- 16 € revenue stamp;
- Photocopy of passport;
- Evidence of housing availability;
- Documentation of autonomous economic resources;
- Insurance policy valid in Italy.
If you apply for permit conversion you must instead submit:
- 16 € revenue stamp;
- Photocopy of passport;
- Photocopy of current residence permit;
- Photocopy of social security number;
- Documentation evidencing lawful and autonomous economic resources.
Those who receive an Italian contributory pension are entitled to mandatory enrollment in the National Health Service.
How to apply and what happens next
The application is submitted through an authorized post office using the postal kit (forms 1 and 2). At the time of mailing you must present your original passport and pay the required fees: €30.46 for the electronic permit, €40 for the one-year permit or €50 for the two-year permit, plus €30 for mailing the envelope. The post office will issue the mailing receipt, tax receipts for the payments and the appointment for the Questura.
On the day of your appointment at the Police Headquarters you will have to show up for photodactyloscopic (fingerprinting), hand over four passport photos with a clear background, show your passport and the original documents included in the kit.
The permit is issued for one year or two years, depending on the contribution made. For renewal, it will be necessary to prove that you still have the required economic resources, a home in Italy and valid health coverage.
