It is no secret that Italy is one of the most desirable digital nomad destinations in the world. From the affordable cost of living and laid-back lifestyle to warm weather and rich culture, Italy offers everything that a digital nomad could possibly need.
If you are planning on visiting here or settling here as a digital nomad, make sure to look into the available visa options. This article delves into just that and explores how Italy accommodates the digital nomad community with its visa policy.
Does Italy have a Digital Nomad Visa?
Italy started offering a digital nomad visa in 2024 which makes it easy for freelancers, remote workers, and nomads to settle here. Under Article 27 of the legislative decree n.286, highly skilled workers can apply for this visa. The Italian consulate general and the Italian government have further divided it into two types of digital nomad visas; one for digital nomads and one for remote workers. Each is well-equipped and caters to a variety of people.
Non-EU citizens can easily obtain the Italian digital nomad visa if they fulfill a certain set of eligibility requirements.
Italy’s new digital nomad visa allows you to stay and work in Italy for 1 year while enjoying the numerous benefits of the visa.
Who can Apply for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?
Here are the factors that determine whether you qualify for an Italian Digital Nomad Visa.
- Citizens of non-EU countries and non-EEA countries
- Digital nomads; freelancers, consultants, specialists
- Remote workers; individuals employed by foreign companies
- Highly specialized workers whose professions fulfill the requirements of this visa
- Individuals whose professions require post-secondary degrees or 3+ years of training
- Possession of a recognized degree or a declaration of value
How do you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Italy?
Look at the step-by-step guide below to learn exactly how to apply for Italy’s digital nomad visa.
- Make an in-person appointment
You’ll need to contact the nearest Italian embassy in the country of your residence. Although you can visit directly too, it is advised to set a time beforehand. This will help you avoid any delays and get the necessary information about the next steps.
- Gather the necessary documents.
Your agent will guide you regarding the required documents while making the appointment. This step requires special attention because the accuracy of your application determines the processing time. In case you aren’t sure about the required documents, keep reading to get a brief overview.
- Fill out the application form.
Now comes one of the most attention-demanding parts of the process. You can easily download the form online and print it before filling it out. You can also get it from the embassy. Make sure to be extra careful and double-check all of your information.
- Submit
The next step is to show up at your Italian embassy or consulate as per your appointment and submit your documents.
- Pay the fee
Upon the submission of your application, you’ll also need to pay the visa application and processing fee to the embassy. The amount will depend on your country of residence so make sure to check with the embassy.
- Wait for feedback
Once you have completed all the steps, you just need to sit tight and wait for the authorities to process your application.
- Enter Italy
You’ll receive a confirmation notice if your application is approved. Following that, you’ll need to collect your visa from the Italian consulate or embassy and enter Italy.
- Apply for a residency permit.
After you have been approved for a digital nomad visa, you’ll need to apply for a digital nomad residence permit after entering the country. You can do so within 8 days of entering Italy.
How Much Does it Cost?
You may be surprised to hear this but the digital nomad visa to this beautiful country isn’t that costly. The visa application fee for Italy’s digital nomad is €116 per applicant as of now. However, it may vary based on your country.
Additional requirements and costs may be incurred in having the documents translated, outsourcing agents, going to the embassy, and getting a residence permit.
Family members including spouses, children, and dependents will incur separate costs as well.
Italy Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
There are some requirements that you must fulfill to get this visa.
Necessary documents
You must have the following documents with you during the time of your visa application.
- Valid passport: a passport that will remain valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Italy.
- Proof of legal income
- Proof of employment: Applicants must submit proof that they are currently working for a foreign company (any business based outside of Italy). This could be proved by submitting employment contracts, Pay Slips, or any other documents.
- Proof of freelancing: applicants must be able to prove that if they are not employed in a foreign country, they are either self-employed or they are working as freelancers. You can prove this by submitting adequate business documentation.
- Proof of sufficient financial means: you can submit proof of income in the form of payslips or bank statements.
- Valid health insurance: medical insurance that will remain valid and cover all expenses for the duration of your entire stay.
- Proof of accommodation: you must provide evidence about your residence in Italy.
- Clean criminal record certificate: you must be able to prove that you have not been convicted of any crimes in your home country or current country of residence. You can easily get a copy of the criminal record check certificate from a local police station.
- Two passport photos
Financial requirements
The Italian digital nomad visa requires you to submit proof of financial stability. In order to be deemed eligible, your bank account must have sufficient balance. The annual minimum income requirement is €24,789 and the monthly minimum income requirement is €2066.
In case you are bringing dependents, €34,087 will be required with your spouse, and an additional €1550 per year for each child.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Italy Digital Nomad Visa?
There is no set time for this visa application process because sometimes it can be completed in 30-60 business days while other times, Italian embassies require up to 120 days. Ideally, your visa application will be processed within the first few months of submission and you’ll receive feedback.
However, it can change depending on the competency of the Italian consulate, embassy, or diplomatic mission in charge. It can also extend if your case worker or counselor finds that they need more details or documents. All you can do is submit an accurate application with correct and complete documents.
Benefits of the Italy Digital Nomad Visa
Rich history and culture
Italy is nothing short of a vibrant cultural tapestry and a historical hub. The country is surrounded by art and it is well depicted in every single corner. Italian culture is a beautiful concoction of North African Arab, Italo-Albanian, Albanian, German, Austrian, and some other European groups. The local culture of Italy represents various communities and offers a colorful mix. Additionally, Italy is home to friendly people and it hosts a ton of cultural festivals.
Fast internet
Italy also has great internet speed and coverage. The country has a reliable and fast internet connection that enables digital nomads to work remotely. It has a median download speed of 46 Mbps and an average internet speed of 101 Mbps which is pretty great for remote work.
Other than that, you can also get a local SIM card upon arrival. There are two main providers in the country; Fastweb and Sky wifi. You can compare their data packages, speed, and coverage to make a well-informed decision. You can register for a SIM card by going to the respective operator’s office and completing the required process.
Affordable cost of living
Italy is a famous digital nomad hotspot for many reasons and its low cost of living is one of the main ones. You can enjoy great value for money and a high quality of life at surprisingly low rates. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and it can change as per your lifestyle.
Tax benefits
Another great thing for non-residents is that they are subject to various tax benefits. You can work remotely and enjoy a 90% tax exemption if you are living in South Italy. If you are visiting the country on a digital nomad visa, you won’t have to pay taxes for stays of >183 days.
However, you’ll still be liable to the tax obligations in your home country, if that is what they require.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Italy?
Italy has a flexible tax policy that varies based on specific circumstances. Whether you are a tax resident or not is defined by the amount of time you spend in the country.
In simple words, anyone who spends more than 183 days in a calendar year will be subject to Italian local taxes. After that period, you’ll have to pay taxes on your worldwide income.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa Italy
The Italian government states that digital nomad visas are open to renewal and extensions. After the initial 12 months have passed, you can get an extension of 2 years. It can be extended continuously but you must renew it before expiration and you must continue to meet the visa requirements and eligibility criteria.
After spending 5 consecutive years in Italy, the residence permit can be turned into permanent residency as long as you fulfill the eligibility criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do EU citizens need a visa to enter Italy?
EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can enjoy visa-free entry to Italy for up to 90 days. However, they must submit proof of valid health insurance, ID, and passport to enter the country.
Do United States citizens need a visa to enter Italy?
Thanks to the visa waiver program between the USA and Italy, US citizens do not need a visa to enter Italy. However, they can only stay for a period of 90 days without a visa.
How much does it cost to live in Italy as a Digital Nomad?
As per recent estimations, the average cost of living in Italy is €854.80 to €2,985.50 per month. However, you can certainly save money by eating locally, renting long-term, and leaning towards an affordable digital nomad lifestyle.
How long does an Italian digital nomad visa last?
The Italian digital nomad visa is designed to last for a period of 12 months. It can be renewed and extended later on but the original duration lasts for a year.
Can you apply for an Italy Digital Nomad Visa online?
Unfortunately, you can not apply for an Italy DNV online as of now. People living outside Italy will need to go to the nearest Italian embassy or consulate in their country.
Final Thoughts
Italy is home to some of the most ethereal sights and best places in the world. If you want to pack your bags and move there without making any permanent commitment then this article has got you covered. This new visa program allows an opportunity to enjoy Italy without going through complex and tedious procedures.
If this beautiful country has convinced you to pack your bags and move here then the Italy digital nomad visa will certainly help you out. We hope this article provides you with the necessary information and clears your doubts. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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