Can I retire to Italy if I don't plan to work?

The Elective Residence visa (residenza elettiva) is a long-stay route for non-EU nationals who can support themselves entirely from passive income such as pensions, annuities, rental income or dividends. You must show stable income, secure accommodation in Italy (typically a registered lease or property deed), and hold health cover. The defining condition is that you cannot work — neither as an employee nor as a self-employed person — while on this visa. Consulates assess income on a discretionary basis, so it is important to present a strong, well-documented financial picture.