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Short answer
Nobody can guarantee an elective residence visa for a fee, because only the consulate decides. Check requirements only on the consulate and Vistoperitalia pages, never pay a private person a deposit before you have a signed lease or deed, and report fraud to the Polizia Postale or your local police.
Information, not legal advice. MovItaly is not a law firm. Check with the questura or consulate before you act.
Who is this for
Anyone approached by an agent or website offering an elective residence visa.
Red flags
- A guaranteed visa or "fast track" for a fee. Only the consulate decides.
- Requests to pay a deposit to a private person before you have a signed lease or deed.
- Fake rental listings used as proof of housing. See Rental contract scams.
- Offers of "work" on a visa that does not allow working.
What to do
Check the requirements only on the consulate and Vistoperitalia pages. Keep every contract and receipt. Report fraud to the Polizia Postale or your local police.
Where to get help
The Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione at your Prefettura, the Questura immigration office, your consulate, and free legal desks run by NGOs or trade unions (patronati). Never pay an intermediary who promises a guaranteed outcome. For a complex case, use a lawyer from the Lawyer category of the professionals marketplace.
Questions people ask
Can anyone guarantee an elective residence visa?
No. Only the consulate decides. A guaranteed visa for a fee is a red flag. Source
Where do I check the real requirements?
Only on your consulate's page and on Vistoperitalia. Source
Where do I report this kind of fraud?
To the Polizia Postale or your local police. Source
Sources
- Visa for Italy (Ministero degli Affari Esteri)
- Immigration and asylum (Ministero dell'Interno)
