Italy has finally launched its long-awaited digital nomad visa, opening the door for remote workers to legally live in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries. After years of speculation and delays, the Italian government officially implemented the visa in April 2023, making it a genuine option for location-independent professionals.
I’ve been tracking the development of this visa since it was first announced, and I’m excited to share everything you need to know about applying in 2025. Whether you’re dreaming of working from a Tuscan villa, a Sicilian beachfront, or a Roman apartment, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process.
What is the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?
The Italy Digital Nomad Visa (officially called “Visto per Nomadi Digitali”) is a special residence permit designed specifically for non-EU remote workers who want to live in Italy while working for companies or clients outside of Italy.
This visa allows you to legally stay in Italy for up to one year initially, with the possibility of renewal. Unlike tourist visas that limit your stay to 90 days within a 180-day period, this visa gives you continuous legal residency.
The visa was created through Article 27, paragraph 1, letter q-bis of Legislative Decree no. 286/1998, which was amended by Article 1, paragraph 26 of Law no. 35 of April 2022. The implementation decree was finally published in March 2023, making the visa officially available.
Key Benefits of the Italy Digital Nomad Visa
Before diving into the requirements, let’s look at why this visa is worth considering:
- Long-term legal stay: Live in Italy for up to one year (renewable)
- Travel freely: Move throughout the Schengen Area without additional visas
- Quality of life: Enjoy Italy’s exceptional food, culture, healthcare, and lifestyle
- Lower cost of living: Many Italian cities are more affordable than major tech hubs
- Tax benefits: Potential tax advantages for high-income earners (more on this below)
- Path to permanent residency: Possible route to long-term settlement in Italy
Who Qualifies for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?
The Italian government has set specific criteria for who can apply. You must be:
- A non-EU citizen (EU citizens already have freedom of movement)
- A remote worker with highly specialized skills (more on this below)
- Employed by or providing services to companies outside of Italy
- Able to work remotely using technology tools
- Financially self-sufficient
- Have health insurance coverage valid in Italy
- Have suitable accommodation in Italy
The “Highly Specialized Skills” Requirement
One of the most discussed aspects of this visa is the requirement for “highly specialized skills.” The Italian legislation doesn’t provide a comprehensive list but generally refers to:
- IT and technology professionals
- Digital marketers and content creators
- Software developers and engineers
- Data analysts and scientists
- Graphic designers and UX/UI specialists
- Digital entrepreneurs and consultants
- Other professionals who can work remotely using digital technologies
In practice, you’ll need to demonstrate your professional qualifications, experience, and how your work relies on digital tools. University degrees, professional certifications, and a strong portfolio can help support your application.
Income Requirements for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa
To qualify for the visa, you must prove you have sufficient income to support yourself without working for Italian companies. The current minimum income requirement is set at three times the minimum level for exemption from healthcare contribution, which translates to approximately €28,000 per year (about $30,500).
This is significantly higher than many other digital nomad visas in Europe, positioning Italy’s program toward more established professionals rather than entry-level remote workers.
You’ll need to provide bank statements, employment contracts, client agreements, or other financial documentation proving your stable income meets this threshold.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The application process for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa involves several stages. Here’s how to navigate them:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documentation
Before applying, gather the following documents:
- Valid passport: With at least six months validity beyond your planned stay
- Proof of accommodation: Rental agreement, hotel reservation, or letter of hospitality
- Proof of income: Bank statements, employment contract, or client agreements showing you meet the minimum income requirement
- Health insurance: Policy covering your entire stay in Italy (minimum coverage of €30,000)
- Professional qualifications: Degrees, certifications, portfolio, CV
- Employment/client documentation: Contract with non-Italian employer or client agreements
- Statement of work: Description of your remote work activities
- Clean criminal record: Certificate from your home country
- Visa application form: Completed and signed
- Passport photos: Meeting Schengen visa specifications
All documents not in Italian must be translated by an authorized translator and, in many cases, apostilled or legalized.
Step 2: Submit Your Application at the Italian Consulate
Once your documents are ready:
- Book an appointment at the Italian consulate or embassy in your country of residence
- Submit your application and supporting documents
- Pay the visa fee (approximately €116 or $126)
- Attend an interview if required
Processing times vary by consulate but typically take 1-3 months. I recommend applying at least 3 months before your planned move to Italy.
Step 3: Enter Italy and Apply for a Residence Permit
If your visa application is approved, you’ll receive a national D-type visa valid for entry into Italy. But your journey isn’t over yet:
- Enter Italy within the validity period of your visa
- Within 8 days of arrival, apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) at the local immigration office (Questura)
- Complete biometric registration (fingerprints and photo)
- Pay the residence permit fee (approximately €100-200 or $109-218)
- Receive a receipt confirming your application
The residence permit processing typically takes 1-3 months. The receipt serves as temporary proof of legal stay while you wait for the actual permit card.
Step 4: Register with Local Authorities
After entering Italy, you should also:
- Register your residence at the local municipality (Comune)
- Apply for an Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale) if you haven’t already
- Register with the National Health Service (optional but recommended)
Tax Implications for Digital Nomads in Italy
Understanding the tax situation is crucial before moving to Italy. Here are the key points:
Tax Residency Rules
You become tax resident in Italy if you:
- Are registered with the Italian civil registry, OR
- Have your habitual abode in Italy, OR
- Stay in Italy for more than 183 days in a calendar year
As a digital nomad visa holder staying for a year, you’ll likely become tax resident in Italy, meaning you’ll need to report your worldwide income to Italian tax authorities.
Special Tax Regimes
Italy offers several beneficial tax regimes that digital nomads might qualify for:
- Impatriate Tax Regime: 70% tax exemption on employment and self-employment income for qualified new residents (90% if you move to certain southern regions)
- Flat Tax for New Residents: €100,000 annual flat tax on foreign-source income for high-net-worth individuals
To benefit from these regimes, you must meet specific criteria and file the appropriate elections with your first tax return in Italy. I strongly recommend consulting with an Italian tax advisor before moving. You should also check out my other article on taxes for digital nomads.
Cost of Living for Digital Nomads in Italy
Italy offers a wide range of living costs depending on location. Here’s a general breakdown of monthly expenses in different regions:
| Expense | Major Cities (Rome, Milan, Florence) | Mid-sized Cities (Bologna, Turin) | Small Towns/Rural Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | $800-1,500 | $600-900 | $400-700 |
| Utilities | $150-200 | $120-180 | $100-150 |
| Internet | $30-50 | $30-50 | $30-50 |
| Groceries | $300-400 | $250-350 | $200-300 |
| Dining out (8 meals) | $200-400 | $150-300 | $120-250 |
| Transportation | $50-100 | $40-80 | $30-100 |
| Health Insurance | $100-200 | $100-200 | $100-200 |
| Total (approx.) | $1,630-2,850 | $1,290-2,060 | $980-1,750 |
These figures are estimates and can vary based on your lifestyle. Northern Italy tends to be more expensive than the south, and tourist areas command premium prices.
Best Places for Digital Nomads in Italy
Italy offers diverse options for digital nomads, each with unique advantages:
Milan
Italy’s business hub offers excellent networking opportunities, international connections, and a vibrant startup scene. It has the best infrastructure for digital workers but comes with higher living costs.
Pros: Fast internet, coworking spaces, international community, excellent transport links
Cons: Expensive housing, less “traditional” Italian atmosphere
Rome
The eternal city combines history, culture, and reasonable digital infrastructure. It’s well-connected internationally and offers an authentic Italian experience with the conveniences of a major city.
Pros: Central location, international airport, rich cultural offerings
Cons: Tourist crowds, traffic, variable internet quality in older buildings
Bologna
This university city offers an excellent balance of quality of life, affordability, and digital infrastructure. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring Italy.
Pros: Affordable, excellent food scene, good transport connections, fast internet
Cons: Fewer international connections, less English spoken
Bari and Southern Italy
The south offers dramatically lower living costs, beautiful coastlines, and an authentic lifestyle. The government is investing in attracting remote workers to these regions.
Pros: Very affordable housing, relaxed lifestyle, beautiful scenery
Cons: Less reliable infrastructure, fewer coworking spaces, limited international connections
Sicily
Italy’s largest island offers an incredible lifestyle with beaches, mountains, and historic cities. Several towns are actively recruiting digital nomads with incentives.
Pros: Low cost of living, beautiful surroundings, emerging digital nomad communities
Cons: Less reliable internet in rural areas, limited winter transportation options
Renewing Your Digital Nomad Visa
The Italy Digital Nomad Visa is initially valid for one year, but it can be renewed if you continue to meet the requirements. Here’s what you need to know about renewal:
- Apply for renewal at least 60 days before your current permit expires
- Provide updated proof of income, accommodation, and health insurance
- Demonstrate you’ve maintained your remote work arrangement
- Show compliance with Italian tax obligations (if applicable)
After several years of legal residence in Italy, you may become eligible for long-term residence permits or even Italian citizenship, depending on your circumstances.
Alternatives to the Italy Digital Nomad Visa
If you don’t qualify for the digital nomad visa or need a different solution, consider these alternatives:
Elective Residence Visa
For those with passive income (pensions, investments, rental income) of at least €31,000 per year. Doesn’t allow any work, even remote.
Self-Employment Visa
For freelancers and entrepreneurs willing to establish a formal business presence in Italy. Requires navigating complex bureaucracy and quota systems.
Student Visa
Enroll in an Italian language school or university program while working remotely part-time.
Other European Digital Nomad Visas
Consider programs in Portugal, Spain, Croatia, Greece, or Estonia, which may have different requirements.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Moving to Italy as a digital nomad comes with certain challenges. Here’s how to prepare:
Language Barrier
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among younger Italians, you’ll need some Italian for daily life.
Solution: Start learning Italian before arrival. Apps like Duolingo, iTalki, or formal classes can help. Many cities offer affordable language courses for foreigners.
Bureaucracy
Italy is famous for its complex paperwork and administrative procedures.
Solution: Consider hiring a local fixer or relocation consultant to help navigate the system. Budget extra time for all administrative processes.
Banking
Opening an Italian bank account can be challenging for non-residents.
Solution: Start with international options like Wise, Revolut, or N26 while establishing residency. Then open a local account once you have your residence permit.
Internet Reliability
Internet quality varies significantly across Italy, especially in historic buildings and rural areas.
Solution: Check internet availability before signing a lease. Consider a mobile hotspot backup and membership at a coworking space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family with me on the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse/partner and dependent children under 18. They’ll need to apply for family reunification visas. The income requirement increases accordingly to ensure you can support your entire family.
Do I need to speak Italian to get the Digital Nomad Visa?
No, there’s no Italian language requirement for the initial visa application. However, learning basic Italian will significantly improve your experience living in Italy and help with day-to-day interactions.
Can I work for Italian clients with the Digital Nomad Visa?
No. The visa specifically requires that your income comes from non-Italian sources. Working for Italian clients or companies would require a different type of work permit.
How does healthcare work for digital nomads in Italy?
You must have private health insurance to obtain the visa. After establishing residency, you can optionally register with the Italian National Health Service (SSN) by paying an annual fee of approximately €387.34 ($422) for comprehensive coverage.
Can I travel to other Schengen countries with the Italian Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes. Once you have your Italian residence permit, you can travel within the Schengen Area without additional visas for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your primary residence must remain in Italy.
Is there a minimum stay requirement to maintain the Digital Nomad Visa?
While there’s no explicit minimum stay requirement for the digital nomad visa itself, maintaining tax residency and eligibility for renewal typically requires spending at least 183 days per year in Italy.
Taking the Leap: Your Action Plan
If you’re serious about moving to Italy as a digital nomad, here’s your action plan:
- 6+ months before: Research locations, assess your eligibility, start gathering documentation
- 3-4 months before: Apply for the visa at your local Italian consulate
- 2-3 months before: Secure accommodation, arrange health insurance
- 1 month before: Set up mail forwarding, notify banks, prepare for tax implications
- Upon arrival: Apply for residence permit, register with local authorities
- First 3 months: Set up banking, find coworking spaces, establish routines
Living in Italy as a digital nomad offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of the world’s most beautiful countries while continuing your remote career. The combination of history, culture, food, and lifestyle makes it worth navigating the application process.
The digital nomad visa is still relatively new, so expect some procedural changes as the program evolves. Stay informed by checking the official Italian immigration website and connecting with other nomads who have gone through the process.
Don’t let the paperwork intimidate you. Thousands of remote workers are already enjoying la dolce vita while maintaining their international careers. With proper planning and the right mindset, you could be working from your Italian dream location sooner than you think.
Have you started the application process for Italy’s digital nomad visa? Are you considering a move to Italy? Let me know in the comments below, and I’ll do my best to answer your questions!
