Italy has recently introduced a digital nomad visa that allows remote workers to live and work in the country long-term. The visa went into effect on April 4 and enables foreigners to stay in Italy for up to a year, with the option to renew annually. The government defines a digital nomad as a non-European Union citizen who engages in highly qualified work activities remotely using technological tools, either as a self-employed worker, collaborator, or employee of a company, even if they are not a resident of Italy. The aim is to attract highly skilled remote workers to enjoy the Italian lifestyle.
To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, applicants must be tax compliant and have an annual income of at least three times the minimum level for exemption from healthcare costs in Italy, which is around $30,000 per year. They must also have health insurance coverage for their entire stay in the country and prove suitable accommodations. Additionally, applicants need to demonstrate that they have been digital nomads or remote workers elsewhere for at least six months. Those with a criminal record within the last five years, even with a non-definitive sentence, are automatically disqualified.
Once approved for the digital nomad visa, individuals can bring family members with them to Italy, provided that the local police approve a residence permit for the family. Accepted applicants must apply for a residence permit within eight days of arriving in Italy and need to schedule an in-person appointment at an Italian consulate in their home country to finalize their application. Similar digital nomad visa programs have been launched by countries like Portugal and Spain, aiming to attract remote workers and digital nomads to work and live in their countries.
It is essential for digital nomads who are approved for the Italian visa to start learning Italian, as they have a limited time frame to apply for a residence permit upon arrival in the country. The application process for the digital nomad visa requires proof of income, health insurance coverage, past experience as a digital nomad or remote worker, and a clean criminal record. Successful applicants will be allowed to work and live in Italy for up to a year, with the possibility of renewing their visa annually. The Italian government hopes to attract skilled professionals and remote workers to experience the Italian lifestyle while contributing to the country’s economy.
By launching the digital nomad visa program, Italy joins other European countries in welcoming remote workers and digital nomads to live and work within their borders. The program aims to attract individuals with high qualifications and experience working remotely, offering them the opportunity to experience the Italian culture, cuisine, and lifestyle. The requirements for the visa include a minimum income threshold, health insurance coverage, accommodation proof, and a clean criminal record. With the rise of remote work and digital nomadism, countries are adapting their visa policies to attract this growing group of professionals.
