Digital Nomad Visa

Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU citizens to live in Italy while continuing to work remotely for companies or clients based abroad. Introduced by decree on February 29, 2024, this visa finally provides a clear legal pathway for location-independent professionals seeking long-term residence in Italy.

Unlike traditional work visas, the Digital Nomad Visa is not subject to annual quotas and does not require a work permit (Nulla Osta).

Italy offers a unique balance of lifestyle, infrastructure, and affordability—especially compared to other EU destinations.

➔ High quality of life and strong work-life balance
➔ Reliable internet and modern services
➔ Lower cost of living outside major cities
➔ Access to healthcare, culture, and EU travel

Many digital nomads choose Italy’s smaller towns for a slower pace of life without sacrificing connectivity.

With this visa, you can:

● Enter Italy legally for remote work
● Live in Italy while working for non-Italian companies or clients
● Apply for a 1-year residence permit, renewable annually

Under Italian law, a digital nomad is a non-EU professional who performs their work remotely using technology and is considered highly skilled. While the legal framework provides general eligibility criteria, it is important to understand that Italian consulates retain discretionary authority in determining what qualifies as “highly skilled” on a case-by-case basis.

In practice, consulates place significant weight on an applicant’s educational background and professional history. Applicants are generally expected to hold a university degree and to be actively working in a field that is either directly related to that degree or for which a clear professional link can be demonstrated. Where a degree is not perfectly aligned, it becomes especially important to show a coherent career path that logically connects education, skills, and current remote work activities.

It is also important to note that digital nomad applications are increasingly subject to heightened scrutiny. Italian consulates have begun applying stricter standards when reviewing these files, particularly with respect to income stability and professional experience. Applicants are strongly encouraged to earn well above the minimum income threshold and to be able to document at least five years of prior experience in their field, in addition to a minimum of six months working in their current remote role or as a digital nomad at the time of application. Clear, well-organized documentation is essential, as inconsistencies or weak professional links can lead to delays or refusals.

While the Digital Nomad Visa and the Remote Worker Visa are often discussed together, there are important procedural differences between the two, particularly when it comes to processing timelines.

Remote workers—those who are employed by a single company, typically under an employment contract—often benefit from faster processing times, with some applications being reviewed in as little as 30 days, depending on the consulate and the completeness of the file. This is largely due to the clearer employer–employee relationship and the relative simplicity of verifying employment terms.

Digital nomads, on the other hand, are typically self-employed, business owners, freelancers, or independent contractors. Because these cases require a more detailed analysis of income sources, business activity, and professional continuity, processing times are generally longer. For digital nomad applications, standard processing is usually up to 90 days, and in some cases can extend to 120 days or more.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial when planning timelines for relocation to Italy, as the type of remote activity you engage in can significantly impact both preparation requirements and overall processing duration.

Applicants must meet all of the following conditions:

● Highly skilled professional status

○ Presentation of a degree equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or higher is usually required

● Employment or contracts with non-Italian entities
● Proof of legal income of at least three times the minimum necessary to pay healthcare taxes in Italy
● Valid health insurance (usually for no less than €30,000)
● Proof of accommodation in Italy (Lease, rental contract, or deed for property)
● At least 6 months of experience in the field
● Employment or collaboration contract(s)

During this initial phase, you will gather the documentation required for submission to the Italian consulate. Required documents vary case by case and depend on several factors, including whether you are applying as a remote worker or a digital nomad, the specific consulate handling your application, and your individual professional and personal circumstances. Careful preparation at this stage is essential, as incomplete or inconsistent documentation can lead to delays or refusals.

As you prepare your application, you should plan to book your consular appointment approximately two to three months in advance of your intended application date. Appointment availability is often limited, and slots can fill quickly.

When scheduling your appointment, it is important to keep processing timelines in mind. Visa processing times may range from as little as one week to as long as 120 days, depending on the consulate and the nature of the application. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review their consulate’s website carefully to understand local procedures and estimated processing times before booking.

You will attend your consular appointment on the scheduled date and time. Plan to arrive early, as security checks are required and, in some cases, biometric data may be collected prior to your appointment.

You should bring three complete sets of your application documents:

● One set for your personal records
● One set for the consulate
● One set for the Questura in Italy

Important: While you should bring original documents with you for reference, the consulate should be provided copies only. Originals should remain in your possession.

If your visa is approved, you may travel to Italy to begin the residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) process. It is essential to pay close attention to the start date listed on your visa. Entering Italy before this date will prevent proper activation of the visa and may make it impossible to apply for your residence permit.

After entering Italy with a valid visa, you must:

● Apply for a residence permit within eight working days
● Submit the application through the appropriate channels and complete processing at the local Questura
● Receive a residence permit issued under the category “Digital Nomad – Remote Worker”

The residence permit is typically valid for one year and may be renewed, provided the eligibility requirements continue to be met.

The Digital Nomad residence permit allows eligible family members to apply for residence permits of equal duration, including:

● Spouse
● Minor children

Once you are living and working in Italy as a legal resident, you will be required to comply with Italian tax obligations. This is an important aspect of relocating to Italy and one that often raises questions for applicants.

For this reason, it is strongly recommended to consult with an Italian commercialista as well as a tax advisor in your home country. Proper guidance will help you understand how your income will be taxed, whether a VAT number is required in your specific case, and how to remain compliant with both Italian and international tax regulations.

Visas or permits may be refused or revoked if:

● Requirements are no longer met
● Tax or contribution obligations are violated
● False or misleading information is provided