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Italian citizenship brings numerous advantages, including the right to live, work and study in any country of the European Union. However, when it comes to living in the United States, the scenario changes, because Italian citizenship, by itself, does not guarantee permanent or automatic residence in the USA. However, there are viable paths for Italians who want to live in the country. One of them is the possibility of applying for the E-2 Visa Program, exclusively for citizens of countries with trade treaties with the United States – such as Italy – in addition to the facility with the ESTA authorization for temporary entry.
ESTA Visa: Simplified Access for Italians
One of the immediate advantages of being an Italian citizen is the facilitated entry into the United States, without the need to apply for a traditional visa. Italian citizens can use the Visa Waiver Program. This program allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business, upon requesting an electronic authorization called ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which is quick and simple to obtain online.
Meet the E-2 Visa: A Path For Italian Citizens
Another significant benefit is the possibility of applying for the E-2 visa, exclusively for citizens of countries with trade treaties with the US. This visa allows Italians to invest in a business in the United States and, thus, obtain authorization to live and work in the country while the enterprise is in operation.
E-2 is a highly flexible option: it does not require a fixed minimum investment, which may vary according to the type of business, and includes the spouse (with authorization to work in the US) and children under 21 years of age (who can study in the country). In addition, unlike other visas, it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the requirements are met.
It is important to clarify that the E-2 visa does not offer a direct path to permanent residence (Green Card) in the United States. It is a temporary visa, but can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business is active and meets the established requirements
Learn more about how the E-2 Visa works and its benefits
ATTENTION: AMG International Realty is a real estate consultancy in Florida and does not provide legal or immigration services. The information in this article on the E-2 visa and the process of obtaining European citizenship is informative and does not replace the guidance of specialized professionals. We are available to connect you with trusted partners who can help you on these topics.
Italian Citizenship – Attention: It Is Not Enough To Be A Descendant
It is worth noting that just having Italian ancestry is not enough to enjoy the benefits. To be officially recognized as an Italian citizen and enjoy the immigratory advantages, such as easy entry into the US, you need to formally obtain European citizenship and have a valid Italian passport.
The process to acquire Italian citizenship may involve proof of your line of descent, with documents confirming the direct family tie with an Italian citizen, in addition to other legal requirements required by Italy. Without this formalization, even if you are of Italian descent, you will not be recognized as a citizen and, therefore, you will not have access to the benefits mentioned in the article, such as the ESTA or the E-2 visa.
Is there any facility in buying a property in Miami for Italians?
Having Italian citizenship does not offer direct tax or financial benefits in the purchase of a property in Miami, because the United States real estate market treats foreign buyers equally.
Likewise, the fact of being Italian does not change the financing conditions.
A foreigner who does not tax reside in the US, of any other nationality, receives the same treatment as Florida banks. When financing a property, these institutions usually require a higher down payment than that charged to those who have already had tax residence in the US for at least two years. For foreigners, the entry usually varies between 30% and 50% of the value of the property, while for residents in the US, it is not uncommon to find conditions that allow only 20% of the entry.
This difference exists because banks consider it less risky to lend to those who live and have tax residence in the USA. It is easier to access a resident’s assets in case of default, and people who live in the country usually have local income, which makes credit analysis simpler and safer for financial institutions.
Do you want to live in the USA?
AMG International Realty is a real estate consultancy with global operations and expertise in the Florida market, dedicated to serving foreign customers. We know that buying a property abroad goes beyond a commercial transaction: it can be a strategic investment step, the realization of a vacation dream or even the beginning of a new life in another country. Therefore, we are by your side at every stage of the process, offering personalized guidance and complete support before, during and after the acquisition of the property.
If you have Italian citizenship, or any other country with an E-2 treaty with the US, and are interested in obtaining the E-2 visa, we can refer offices and immigration lawyers to assist you in this process. Be sure to also check out our Practical Guide for those who want to move to Florida, with useful information that facilitates the transition.
If you need help or more information, I’m at your disposal! Talk to me now on WhatsApp: +1 305 761 2655 (Heloisa Arazi).
