Italy digital nomad visa: requirements and benefits in 2024

Italy is one of the most visited destinations in the world for its incredible historic monuments, warm climate, and exquisite cuisine. Italy is also a technology hotspot, welcoming remote workers to live and work in the country.

There is currently no specific Italian digital nomad visa, but the Italian Government is in the process of approving one. Luckily, there is a similar visa for self-employed non-EU citizens. This allows people who fulfil the requirements to live and work in Italy.

Today, I will refer to this visa as the Italian digital nomad visa. Before we get into the details, here’s a brief summary:

• The application process is relatively simple.
• The fees are lower than in other European countries.
• You can apply online on the website of the Italian Ministry of the Interior.
• It is valid for entrepreneurs, people in management and corporate positions, artists, and workers in regulated professions. Continue reading for more details.

How to apply for the Italy digital nomad visa?

Applying for the Italian digital nomad visa, or self-employment visa, is not too complicated, simply follow the steps below.

Before starting the application process, you can also check out the Italian Government’s Immigrant Integration website, so you will have all the information, and be able to solve any doubts!

1. The first step is to submit the application for the issuance of the authorisation, also known as nulla osta, online. This can be done on the website of the Italian Ministry of the Interior in accordance with the established deadlines and procedures.
2. The second step is to obtain all the documentation required for the granting of the Italian digital nomad visa for non-EU workers. Remember that these documents must be presented physically at the Italian consulate or diplomatic representation of your country of origin or residence. We will discuss the documentation in detail below.
3. The next step is to wait to see if your Italian digital nomad visa gets granted.

Visa delivery time

Once the application for your self-employment visa has been submitted, the Italian administration has 120 days to provide a response.

At that time, they will notify you whether your visa has been granted or rejected. If granted, an entry visa will be issued to you by the Italian consulate or diplomatic representatives in your country of origin or residence.

This document will be delivered in the language you have marked as your preference in the application form. The main languages available are Italian, English, Spanish, French, and Arabic.

Once you enter the country, you only have 8 days to apply for your residence permit or permesso di soggierno to legalise the application. Don’t miss the deadline!

How does the Italy digital nomad visa work?

Italy has not yet launched a specific visa using the name “digital nomad visa”. However, it offers an equally beneficial option for self-employed workers. This is the non-EU Self-Employment visa. It is still, in effect, an Italian digital nomad visa.

This Italy digital nomad visa works very similarly to other digital nomad visas, and offers remote workers the opportunity to live and work in Italy for a period of two years, which can be extended without any issues.

Moreover, as you might guess from its name, it is designed for all self-employed people who are not residents of the European Union. All European citizens of the Schengen zone can work and live in any of its countries!

Pros of the Italy digital nomad visa

Among the main advantages of the Italian digital nomad visa, I would like to highlight the following in particular:

• The simplicity of the application process.
• The cost of living is lower in Italy compared to other EU countries.
• The rich cuisine and warm climate found throughout the country.
• The incredible transport connections in the country and with other European countries.
• The hospitality of the Italian people.

Cons of the Italy digital nomad visa

Regarding the disadvantages of the Italian digital nomad visa, I would mention the following:

• The high visa delivery time.
• The restrictions related to the activities allowed to be carried out by the remote worker.
• The application must be made in the country of origin or residence.

Is it compulsory to have travel insurance for Italy?

Having a travel insurance is a mandatory requirement to be granted the Italian digital nomad visa, as well as a requirement of the Schengen area in general. As a digital nomad myself, I’ve tried numerous insurance policies suited to digital nomads.

Here’s what I recommend:

What is the best travel insurance?

There is a wide variety of international travel insurance available on the market, with many policies specifically tailored to suit the lifestyle of digital nomads.

So, I would advise you to do your research, to ensure you get the ideal policy for your trip. You can also take a look at our guide to travel insurance for digital nomads.