If you’re a remote worker desiring a change of scenery, you might be interested in the various “digital nomad” visas that many countries offer. Italy has its own, granting non-EU remote workers the right to work and reside in Italy long-term. In this article, we break down what you need to know about the visa, and how to apply.
What is the digital nomad visa?
The digital nomad visa was introduced in Italy in February 2024 as a way for remote workers of non-Italian companies to reside in Italy longer than the usual 90-day period for non-EU citizens. It encompasses both contracted workers for a company, along with freelancers who conduct their business remotely. Such persons can now take advantage of Italy’s high quality of life, exceptional healthcare, and general affordable cost of living outside major cities while maintaining the comfort and security of the job they enjoyed prior to relocation.
How to know if you qualify
In order to be considered for the digital nomad visa, an applicant must be both a non-EU citizen and considered “highly skilled” in the field they are working remotely in. The definition of “highly skilled” might vary somewhat from consulate to consulate, but in general, they will take into account an applicant’s educational background and experience working in the field. For instance, those with advanced degrees and many years of experience could be considered “highly skilled.” The visa itself also requires at least five years’ experience in the field, and six months in the current position prior to applying.
How to apply
To apply, you will need to provide these documents:
- A valid passport
- Proof of residence in the consular jurisdiction (e.g. utility bill or driver’s license)
- Visa application form
- Passport-sized photo
- Proof of travel insurance
- Proof of your qualifying profession (this will differ greatly depending on your field and current job, but could include an employment contract, degree certificates, and/or licensing certificates if applicable)
- Proof of lodging in Italy
- Proof of income
- Proof of six months or more of work in the field
- Self-addressed and stamped envelope
Always check the requirements of your local consulate to see if there are any changes to the above. If approved, the visa will be valid for one year, though you will be able to renew if your circumstances remain unchanged.
The permesso di soggiorno
Within 8 days of arrival in Italy, you need to apply for your permesso di soggiorno, or permit of stay. This will require filling out a “kit” at the post office and receiving an appointment at your local immigration office, or Questura. There, you will need to present copies of the same documents you submitted for your visa. If you intend to remain in Italy past the one year term of your visa, it will be this document that you renew, not the visa itself, allowing you to remain in Italy rather than having to travel back to your home country.
Permanent residency and citizenship by residency
Permanent residency can be obtained after five years of continuous residence in Italy. One of the biggest benefits of having permanent residency is the longer duration of the card, necessitating an update only every 10 years. In order to apply, you will need to present your latest tax returns, a background check, certificate of residency, and proof of A2-level knowledge of the Italian language.
After 10 years of continuous residence, you might also qualify for citizenship by naturalization. (If you have an Italian parent or grandparent, you could qualify after only 2 years). This would grant you the ability to reside in Italy without limits, without updating a permit of stay, the right to vote in Italian elections, and the ability to reside elsewhere in the EU.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in applying for the digital nomad visa or filing an Italian citizenship application, Italian Citizenship Assistance is here to help! Get in touch with an expert today at [email protected].
