With millennia of art and architecture, a world-renowned culinary landscape, and a mild Mediterranean climate, it’s easy to see why Italy consistently ranks among the most visited tourist destinations worldwide. But beyond its charm as a vacation hotspot, Italy is now opening its doors to remote workers via their digital nomad visa. For remote professionals seeking a base in Europe, this visa provides the opportunity to work legally while living la dolce vita.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Italy’s digital nomad visa program—including eligibility requirements, the application process, and tips for making the most of your new life in Italy.
What is Italy's digital nomad visa?
Italy’s digital nomad visa, introduced in April 2024, offers a new pathway for remote professionals with citizenship outside of the European Union to legally live and work in Italy. Officially named the “Visa for Remote Workers,” it grants a one-year stay with the potential for renewal.
The visa reflects a global trend among countries seeking outside investment, allowing foreign professionals to contribute to the local economy while enjoying career growth and cultural immersion. For individuals interested in long-term options, the digital nomad visa is a good first step to transition to an elective residency visa in Italy or a permanent work visa in Italy.
Who is eligible for the Italy digital nomad visa?
The Italy digital nomad visa is for non-EU professionals who work remotely while residing in Italy.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a non-EU citizen with proof of traditional or freelance employment for companies outside Italy
- Have at least six months of work experience, verified through contracts, pay slips, or client letters
- Present a valid passport for identity verification
- Demonstrate a minimum income of €28,000 annually to ensure financial stability during their stay
- Have comprehensive health insurance covering their time in Italy
- Provide a clean criminal record and proof of residence, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents
If you meet these conditions, the digital nomad visa offers the flexibility to explore a new country without sidelining your career.
What documents do you need to apply for Italy’s digital nomad visa?
Applying for the Italy digital nomad visa requires careful preparation that starts with gathering the necessary documents. Having these in order can streamline your application process and solidify your chances of approval. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Completed visa application form: Available from the Italian consulate or embassy in your home country.
- Valid passport: Italy requires passports to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
- Proof of income: Documentation such as employment contracts, invoices, or bank statements showing you meet the minimum annual income requirement of €28,000.
- Health insurance: Comprehensive coverage valid in Italy for your stay.
- Proof of accommodation: This can include a rental agreement, hotel booking, or property deed in Italy. If you’re staying with a friend or loved one, have them write you a formal letter with their address attached.
- Clean criminal record: Verified through a police background check from your home country.
- Proof of remote work: An employment contract or documentation of freelance work for clients outside Italy.
Ensure that all documents are translated into Italian, certified, and notarized where required. Missing or incomplete paperwork can delay your application, so it’s worth double-checking each requirement before submission.
Application process for Italy’s digital nomad visa
Applying for the Italian digital nomad visa involves a series of steps, but the process is simplified with the correct preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application:
1. Complete the visa application form
Start by downloading the official application form from the website of your nearest Italian consulate or embassy, or going in person to ask for a paper copy. Make sure to fill out all fields accurately.
2. Schedule an appointment
Follow up with the consulate or embassy to set up an appointment. You must submit your application in person, so plan to accommodate potential waiting times.
3. Prepare your documents
Gather all the required documents, including your passport, proof of income, health insurance, accommodation, and criminal background check.
4. Submit your application
Bring your completed form and supporting documents to your scheduled appointment. At this stage, you may also be asked to provide fingerprints.
5. Pay the visa fee
The application fee is approximately €116. Make sure you understand the conversion to your local currency and confirm the exact amount with your consulate, as it may vary slightly.
6. Wait for processing
The nomad visa processing time typically ranges from 30 to 60 days, though it can take longer during high-demand periods. Once approved, you’ll be issued your visa, allowing you to start your remote work journey in Italy.
Other types of Italian visas
While the Italian digital nomad visa is a fantastic option for remote professionals, other visa pathways may better suit your needs. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
Elective residency visa in Italy
This visa is ideal if you have sufficient financial resources and don’t plan to work in Italy. It’s designed for individuals who can support themselves through savings or passive income sources like investments.
Self-employment visa
This visa is perfect for entrepreneurs who are expanding their operations to Italy. To apply, you must have a valid business license and an investment plan (of no less than €500,000) that is beneficial to the Italian economy.
Golden visa for investors
If you’re ready to invest significantly in Italian businesses, this visa offers a quick route to residency. It’s ideal for those seeking a long-term connection to Italy with potential pathways to citizenship.
Family reunion visa
If you have a spouse or close family member with an Italian residence permit or EU citizenship, this visa lets you join them in Italy. It’s often the first choice for those looking to unite with family already situated in the county.
If you’re curious about other opportunities, explore which countries offer digital nomad visas or learn more about what a digital nomad visa is to find the best fit for your needs. And if you’re an employer looking for Italian talent, you may be interested to know how much it costs to hire in Italy.
How to support employees applying for an Italy digital nomad visa
For employers, assisting employees in obtaining the Italian digital nomad visa can demonstrate your company’s commitment to remote culture and career growth. Consider these five actionable tips to help your team members navigate the application process.
Assist with gathering necessary documents
Help employees compile key paperwork, such as employment contracts, pay stubs, and health insurance records. Providing detailed instructions and templates can substantially expedite the process.
Provide company documentation
Offer proof of your company’s legitimacy, such as registration certificates or business licenses, and confirm the employee’s eligibility for remote work. This shows the Italian authorities that your company meets compliance requirements.
Highlight family support options
Employees relocating to Italy may have concerns about family-related policies. Giving them insights into topics like maternity leave in Italy can help them feel confident in their transition.
Offer a supporting letter
Draft a formal letter affirming that the employee is a valued member of your team, and has not violated any labor laws within the past five years. Ensure that this letter includes your company’s official letterhead and signature.
Facilitate communication with Italian consulates
Employers can offer a company point of contact for visa-related questions during the consulate process. Having an operations or HR professional in the company who has navigated similar applications before goes a long way.
By taking these steps, employers can simplify the procedure for their team members, enabling them to focus on transitioning smoothly to remote work in Italy. For additional guidance, explore remote work regulations in Italy or learn more about digital nomad taxes when the application is approved.
Build your global team with Oyster
Oyster streamlines the process of onboarding top talent in Italy, as well as visa support in 60+ countries worldwide. Whether you’re expanding into new markets or managing employee relocations, we simplify global employment to help you build a world-class team without the hassle of visa complexities.
With Oyster, you can:
- Ensure compliance with local regulations, including those related to visas
- Manage payroll efficiently
- Provide your team with the resources and support needed to thrive while living and working in Italy
If you’re ready to simplify international employment, discover more about our Employer of Record services or explore our Talent Mobility solutions to see how Oyster can transform your workforce strategy.
About Oyster
Oyster is a global employment platform designed to enable visionary HR leaders to find, engage, pay, manage, develop, and take care of a thriving distributed workforce. Oyster lets growing companies give valued international team members the experience they deserve, without the usual headaches and expense.
Oyster enables hiring anywhere in the world—with reliable, compliant payroll, and great local benefits and perks.
