The ultimate guide to Italy's digital nomad visa

If you've ever dreamed of living in Italy while working remotely, you're in luck! Thanks to the recently introduced digital nomad visa, your dream is now more attainable than ever. Whether you're a freelancer, self-employed, or an employee of a foreign company, Italy's new visa will offer you a unique opportunity to live and work in one of the most beautiful countries in the world!

What is the digital nomad visa?

Officially known as the "Visa for Remote Workers", Italy’s new digital nomad visa is a special visa that allows non-EU citizens to legally live and work in Italy while performing their duties remotely. This visa was introduced in 2022 and officially launched in April 2024, marking a significant step for Italy in attracting remote workers from around the globe.

The digital nomad visa is designed for highly skilled workers, including freelancers, self-employed individuals, and employees of foreign companies, who can perform their work duties remotely using digital tools and grants a one-year stay, with the possibility of renewal. What’s more, it serves as an attractive perk for employees of foreign countries, offering them the flexibility to experience life in Italy while maintaining their professional responsibilities.

Who is eligible for Italy’s digital nomad visa?

Italy's digital nomad visa is specifically designed for non-EU citizens who can work remotely using digital tools. This includes the wide range of professionals that can be defined as:

• Freelancers.
• Self-employed people
• Employees of foreign companies.

To be eligible, thus, applicants are required to provide evidence of their remote work capabilities, typically through employment contracts, freelance agreements, or other relevant documents.

What are the requirements for Italy’s digital nomad visa?

Aside from being able to prove your ability to work remotely, to apply for the digital nomad visa, you'll need to prepare several other important documents. Here's a full list (as per 2024) of what you'll need!

1. A completed application form: this can typically be found on the website of the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country and must be carefully completed in every section.
2. Valid passport: your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Italy.
3. Proof of income: you'll need to demonstrate a stable income that meets the minimum requirement of €28,000 annually (the minimum income needed for exemption from participation in health-care cost). This can be done through employment contracts, invoices, bank statements, or tax returns.
4. Health insurance: comprehensive health insurance coverage is required. It must be valid in Italy for the entire duration of your stay and should cover all medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation.
5. Proof of accommodation: appropriate proof of accommodation in Italy is also necessary. This can include rental agreements, hotel reservations, or a letter of invitation from a host.
6. Clean criminal record: a recent criminal background check from your home country will be needed to prove that you have a clean criminal record.
7. Prior experience of 6 months: you’ll have to demonstrate that you have at least half a year experience in the work activity you’ll perform as a remote worker in Italy.
8. Proof of employment: this can include employment or collaboration contracts or binding offers for the performance of the remote work activity.

Please note that, while this list is comprehensive of all required documents, additional documentation may be required depending on your specific circumstances, so it's advisable to consult the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country for a complete list of requirements.

How can you apply for Italy’s digital nomad visa?

Applying for Italy’s digital nomad visa is not different from applying for any other type of visa. The multi-step process is however a bit complicated, so here's a breakdown of everything you need to do to get your visa and finally start your Italian journey.

1. Locate your embassy or consulate: the very first step is identifying the Italian embassy or consulate with jurisdiction over your place of residence as this is where you'll submit your visa application. A quick search on the Internet will surely help you!
2. Gather required documents: once you have located your embassy/consulate, start by collecting all the necessary documents listed above. As you do so, make sure that your passport is valid and look for comprehensive health insurance as required.
3. Complete the application form: get your official visa application form from the website off the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country and make sure to complete it with accurate and up-to-date information.
4. Schedule an appointment: contact the Italian embassy or consulate to schedule an appointment to submit your application. Be aware that this may require more or less time depending on availability.
5. Submit your application: attend your appointment and submit your completed application form along with all the required documents. Note that you may also be asked to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints.
6. Pay the processing fee: to complete the visa application process, a fee is generally required. As the amount may vary, make sure to double check with the embassy or consulate for the current fee.
7. Await processing: now that your application is complete, you can wait for the processing of your request. Processing time can, once again, vary, so make sure to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
8. Get your Italian visa: as soon as your application is approved, you'll receive your digital nomad visa.

But the process to live in Italy is not finished yet. Once your digital nomad visa is in your hand and you’ve made it to Italy, there’s indeed one more crucial step to ensure your stay is legal: obtaining a "permesso di soggiorno" (permit of stay). This permit is non-negotiable for anyone residing in Italy long-term, and its validity is directly tied to the duration of your visa—that is, up to a maximum of one year. We know it looks like an additional task but it’s a necessary one to ensure your time in Italy is fully compliant and worry-free!

When should you request Italy’s digital nomad visa?

Considering the multi-step nature of the application process, the potential long processing times, and the differences between different states and embassies/consulates, it's recommended to begin planning for your visa well before your arrival date. Ideally, you should apply at least three months in advance. 

Do digital nomads pay tax in Italy?

Digital nomads are generally considered fiscal residents in Italy, which means they are required to pay taxes in Italy. However, the situation can vary depending on where you're from. For example, if you come from a country like the United States that has tax agreements with Italy, these agreements will determine your tax obligations. You might find yourself paying taxes either in Italy, in your home country, or potentially having the option to choose.

However, since tax laws can be complex and may change during the years, it’s highly recommended that you consult with a tax professional—either in your home country or in Italy. They will surely provide you with specific advice based on your circumstances, ensuring that you comply with all relevant regulations and avoid any surprises down the road!

FAQs about the digital nomad visa in Italy

1. How long is the visa valid?

Italy’s digital nomad visa visa is typically valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal.

2. Can I bring my family with me?

Yes, the visa allows for family reunification. Family members can be issued a residence permit of the same duration as the visa holder.

3. What happens if my visa expires?

If your digital nomad visa expires, you’ve got two options:

1. You can leave Italy since you’re no longer legally allowed to reside in the country. 
2. You can apply for a renewal of both the visa and the “permesso di soggiorno". However, since processing times can vary you should apply for the renewal well in advance.

4. Do I need to know Italian to apply?

While it's not mandatory to know Italian, having some knowledge of the language can greatly enhance your experience and ease your daily interactions.

5. Can I travel within the Schengen Area with Italy’s digital nomad visa?

Yes, once you get a “permesso di soggiorno” thanks to your digital nomad visa you’ll be able to travel without limits within the Schengen Area.