Italy has long been a top vacation spot, but with the rise of remote work, it’s now also becoming a hub for digital nomads. These are professionals who work remotely and tend to move between countries. Previously, there was no provision for digital nomads to legally work in Italy for extended periods.
That changed with the introduction of a new visa specifically designed for remote workers, which was officially incorporated into Italian law on March 28, 2022, and came into effect on April 4 of the same year.
Who can apply for an Italian digital nomad visa?
Digital nomad visas are generally intended to accommodate all remote workers. However, Italy’s approach is unique because it operates under Article 27 of the immigration code, focusing on highly skilled workers. Damien O’Farrell points out that this specification targets those who engage in specialized work using digital tools, allowing them to operate remotely either as self-employed individuals or as employees of companies not based in Italy.
Initially, the criteria for what constitutes a ‘highly skilled worker’ under this Italian visa were somewhat ambiguous, but recent updates have clarified this. As of March 2024, to qualify for this visa, applicants must demonstrate an annual income at least three times the minimum level necessary to be exempt from healthcare contributions in Italy, which amounts to approximately €28,000 per year. This financial requirement ensures that the visa is accessible to individuals who can substantially support themselves while benefiting from the Italian healthcare system without burden.
Health insurance is a critical component of the application process for Italy’s digital nomad visa, requiring applicants to secure comprehensive coverage for the entire duration of their stay in Italy.
Applicants must also demonstrate that they have appropriate accommodation arranged for their stay and that they have prior experience working remotely or as a digital nomad for at least six months.
The application process involves visiting an authorized diplomatic-consular office to submit a visa application, which includes a declaration from the applicant’s employer confirming their employment status.
However, not everyone is eligible to apply for this visa. Individuals with any criminal convictions within the past five years, including those with non-final sentences, are generally ineligible, highlighting the strict criteria the Italian government employs to ensure the security and compliance of incoming remote workers.
How long will Italian digital nomad visas last?
In 2022, Luca Carabetta, a former member of the Five Star Movement and a proponent of the digital nomad visa, suggested that the visa would initially be valid for one year. This duration has now been confirmed. The permit issued will be labeled as “digital nomad – remote worker” and is set for a one-year validity. It is renewable annually, provided that the original conditions and requirements for its issuance remain met.
The visa targets individuals equipped with “advanced technological means,” underscoring its suitability for those who can effectively work remotely from Italy.
Additionally, digital nomads are allowed to bring family members to Italy. However, there are specific conditions that must be satisfied, and the ultimate approval for family members’ residence permits lies with Italy’s police headquarters, which makes the final decision on such matters. This setup ensures that the visa accommodates the family needs of remote workers while maintaining regulatory oversight.
How will taxation work for digital nomads in Italy?
Before applying for Italy’s digital nomad visa, applicants must ensure they are compliant with Italian tax laws. This often involves the Italian taxation office consulting with their counterparts in the applicant’s home country.
Damien O’Farrell recommends consulting an Italian tax expert to fully understand the tax obligations and necessary documentation before proceeding with the application. This step is crucial as any tax violations might lead the Italian authorities to directly communicate the issue to the visa-issuing authority.
In summary, securing a digital nomad visa for Italy involves satisfying a comprehensive set of requirements, including tax compliance, which underscores the importance of thorough preparation and understanding of Italian tax regulations before applying.
When will the Italian digital nomad visa be available?
As of 4 April, applications are now being accepted for Italy’s digital nomad visa.
Those interested need to book an in-person appointment at an Italian consulate in their country of residence.
You are required to bring documentation including a valid passport, proof of employment, proof of income, health insurance, proof of accommodation in Italy and a criminal record certificate.
Once your visa is approved, you have eight days from your arrival in Italy to apply for a residence permit, also known as permesso di soggiorno.
Current visas for remote workers in Italy
There are also other visas available that might be suitable, depending on your situation. They come under ‘decreto flussi’ (foreign worker quota) and details of them make positive reading for future digital nomads. As is the case with current visas, it appears there will be no limit on the number of permits issued annually for prospective remote workers in Italy.
To apply for Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare necessary documents, including a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of income demonstrating earnings above the minimum required (about €28,000 annually), a declaration of remote work from your employer, proof of comprehensive health insurance, and proof of accommodation in Italy. Also, ensure you have a clean criminal record, and some consulates might require these documents to be translated into Italian and notarized.
- Schedule a Consular Appointment: You must apply in person at an Italian consulate in your country of residence. During the appointment, you will submit your completed visa application form along with the gathered documents. The visa application fee is around $125.
- Wait for Visa Approval: After submitting your application, the processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the consulate’s workload and your individual circumstances.
- Apply for a Residence Permit: Once in Italy and your visa is approved, you have eight days to apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno). This involves picking up a “Yellow Kit” from a local post office in Italy, filling out the forms, and returning the kit to the post office. You will later need to attend an appointment for biometric data collection.
- Register with the Italian Tax Authority: Upon receiving your residence permit, you should also register with the Italian tax authorities to ensure compliance with local tax laws.
It’s important to note that the digital nomad visa allows you to live and work remotely for clients or companies outside Italy, but does not permit participation in the local labor market. If you’re planning to stay in Italy, having arrangements for accommodation and health insurance is crucial, as is maintaining a reliable income from remote or freelance work.
For detailed guidance, visit the official websites or reach out to the nearest Italian consulate. Also, consider checking with a legal or immigration expert to ensure all your documentation and applications are correctly prepared and submitted.
