About the Italy Digital Nomad Visa
Italy offers the Visto per Lavoro Autonomo / Subordinato da Remoto (Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa) for non-resident remote workers and self-employed professionals. The program lets eligible applicants live in Italy for 1 year initial visa. Renewable annually (for additional 2-year periods; can be renewed multiple times as long as requirements are met). After 5 years of continuous residency, can apply for permanent residency. while working remotely for clients or employers based outside the country.
Applicants typically need to demonstrate stable monthly income of at least EUR28,000 per month, valid health insurance, and a clean criminal record. It is renewable, allowing nomads to extend their stay.
Tax-wise, Italy treats digital nomad visa holders distinctly from local residents — see the Taxes section below for the full picture.
Requirements & Eligibility
Income
Minimum €28,000/year gross (approximately €2,333/month) for single applicant. For applicants with family: +€11,000/year per adult dependent, +€3,500/year per dependent child. Income must come from work performed in Italy for non-Italian employers/clients. Passive income not accepted.
Documents needed
- Completed national visa application form (signed)
- Valid passport (in-date for intended stay
- photocopy of bio page)
- 2 recent passport-size photos
- Proof of accommodation in Italy (rental contract, hotel booking, Airbnb confirmation)
- Proof of remote work (employment contract OR client contracts for freelancers — showing work performed remotely for non-Italian company)
- Income proof for last 12 months: bank statements, payslips, tax returns, client invoices showing min €28,000/year gross
- Proof of 6+ months remote work experience
- Professional qualifications: university degree OR professional certificate OR proof of 3+ years experience in field
- For remote employees: employer letter stating no convictions for specified crimes in last 5 years (including copy of employer's ID)
- Health insurance valid in Italy for min €30,000 coverage for initial stay (until Permesso di Soggiorno issued)
- Signed application form and applicable fee.
How to Apply for the Italy DNV
Processing time: 30–60 days (some consulates may take up to 120 days). Plan 3–6 months ahead.
- 1Confirm eligibility (non-EU/EEA, highly skilled professional — degree or 3+ years experience; 6+ months prior remote work experience; min €28,000/year gross income; proof of work for non-Italian employer/clients).
- 2Gather all documents (non-Italian documents must be translated by sworn translator and apostilled/legalized).
- 3Contact nearest Italian consulate or embassy to book appointment (2–3 months advance booking recommended).
- 4Attend in-person appointment and interview.
- 5Pay €116 visa fee (exact amount per current quarter — cashier's check or money order at US consulates).
- 6Wait 1–3 months for visa decision.
- 7Upon arrival in Italy, within 8 working days, visit local Questura (provincial police headquarters) to apply for Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit). Permit issued as a plastic card valid for 1 year.
Application fees: Approximately €116 per person (consular visa fee — adjusted quarterly based on official euro exchange rate; exact amount varies by consulate). Pay at consulate appointment.
Official sourceVisa Duration & Renewal
Initial duration: 1 year initial visa. Renewable annually (for additional 2-year periods; can be renewed multiple times as long as requirements are met). After 5 years of continuous residency, can apply for permanent residency.
Renewal: Yes — the Visto per Lavoro Autonomo / Subordinato da Remoto (Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa) can be renewed beyond the initial period.
Taxes for Digital Nomads in Italy
Italian income tax applies if staying 183+ days/year (tax residency). Progressive rates: 23%–43%. "Impatriate regime" (special incentive): tax only on 30% of foreign income (or 10% in southern regions) for up to 5 years for qualifying new residents. Tax residency triggers social security contributions as well. Consult Italian tax advisor before applying.