From April 5, 2024, the Italian Digital Nomad Visa and Digital Nomad Immigration Permit (permesso di soggiorno) is available for applicants. The visa is open to remote employees, freelancers, and self-employed individuals. Remote Workers and Digital Nomads can apply at their local Italian Consulate for their home (residency). Applicants can apply in Italy under some limited circumstances. The visa can be expected within 30 – 90 days. While the visa application is under review, the Consulate will be in possession of the applicant’s passport.
Eligibility and Requirements for the Italian Digital Nomad Visa
- The visa is available to Digital Nomads (Freelancers) and Remote Workers (Employees). The requirements are nearly identical for both categories.
- All applicants must have a university or college degree from an accredited institution, an accredited professional license, or accredited superior professional experience.
- All applicants have at least six months of work experience in their remote industry.
- Remote workers (employees) must have an existing employment contract or binding employment offer with the same skill/educational requirements. Digital Nomads do not need an employment contract, though other proof may be requested.
- Employers of remote workers must sign an affidavit stating that they have not been convicted of any immigration crimes within the past 5 years. It is not confirmed at this time if the applicant (remote worker) will also need to sign a criminal affidavit or to conduct a background check.
- Applicants must prove they have an annual income of EUR 28,000 or more.
- Applicants must provide proof of accomodations in Italy.
- Italian Digital Nomad Visa applicants must show proof of medical insurance for treatment and hospitalization for the duration of their stay. The coverage can be medical insurance of by signing up with the Italian National Health Service (EUR 2,000 per year).
- If the Digital Nomad or Remote Worker is from a country with a bilateral agreement with Italy regarding Social Security contributions, they would be exempted from paying social security in Italy. Otherwise, Italian laws on pension and insurance coverage does apply.
- Self-employed workers must apply for a VAT number (business tax ID) at the local tax office once in Italy.
Features of the Italian Digital Nomad Visa
- The Digital Nomad and Remote Worker Visa is valid for one year, with the opportunity to renew.
- Within 8 days of arriving in Italy and before the visa’s expiration, Digital Nomads and Remote Workers can apply for a Permit to Stay (“Permesso di Soggiorno”). These are usually issued for one or two full years from the date of filing the Permit to Stay application, regardless of the expiration date.
- To stay beyond the Permit to Stay, visa holders must renew no less than 60 days before expiration.
- After five years and if the visa holder satisfies all requirements, they may apply for a long-term Permit to Stay.
- After completing the immigration registration and obtaining a Permit to Stay, visa holders can file to become an Italian Registered Resident.
- Digital Nomads and Remote Workers’ family members are eligible to join the visa holder for the duration of their stay.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.