Italy Launches Digital Nomad Visa For Remote Workers: Here’s How To Apply

Italy launches digital nomad visa for remote workers around the world working for Italian companies or employers.

Italy is one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations. However, with millions of people no longer compelled to work in offices, the Mediterranean country is becoming a popular destination for digital nomads – those who work outside their home nations and frequently relocate.

Until now, digital nomads could not legally operate in Italy for an extended period of time. However, a new visa for remote workers was passed into Italian legislation on March 28, 2022, and is currently effective as of April 4.

Who can apply for an Italian digital nomad visa?

The Italian government defines a digital nomad as a citizen of a non-EU state “who carries out a highly qualified work activity with the use of technological tools capable of allowing them to work remotely, both as a worker self-employed or as a collaborator or employee of a company even if not resident in Italy.”

In 2022, it was unclear who qualified as a ‘highly skilled worker’, but we now have a little more clarity, and the definition has evolved slightly.

As of March 2024, the visa is available to workers with an annual income that is at least three times the minimum amount required for exemption from participation in healthcare expenditures in Italy.

However, not everyone can apply. It is recommended that those who have been convicted of a felony within the last five years, even with a non-definitive penalty, be automatically denied from the visa procedure.

Health insurance appears to be the most crucial condition for approval, with persons need to obtain comprehensive plans valid for the duration of their stay.

Applicants must demonstrate that they have enough housing for the duration of their stay and that they have been a digital nomad or remote worker elsewhere for at least six months prior. Before receiving a visa, they must visit a valid diplomatic-consular office and present a declaration signed by their employer.

How long will Italian digital nomad visas last?

Former Five-Star Movement politician Luca Carabetta, who supports the digital nomad visa, stated in 2022 that a visa would initially be valid for one year. As of this week, the figure was confirmed.

The permission will say “digital nomad – remote worker” and will be valid for a maximum of one year. It can be renewed on a yearly basis, but only if the conditions and regulations that allowed it to be given remain unchanged.

It will only be granted to those with “advanced technological means,” implying that it is only fit for persons who can work remotely from Italy.

If a digital nomad desires to bring family members along, that is also permitted, although with some restrictions. Italy’s police headquarters have the last say on whether a residence permit for family reasons can be issued.

When will the visa be available?

As of April 4, applications for Italy’s digital nomad visa are officially being accepted. Those interested must schedule an in-person appointment at an Italian embassy in their country.

You must bring a valid passport, evidence of employment, proof of income, health insurance, proof of residence in Italy, and a criminal record certificate. Once your visa is approved, you will have eight days from your arrival in Italy to apply for a residence permit, commonly known as permesso di soggiorno.

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