Italy introduces digital nomad visa for non-EU remote workers

Italy has launched a digital nomad visa, designed to attract non-EU citizens who can work remotely for foreign companies or as freelancers. This initiative reflects Italy’s adaptation to the remote working trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Non-EU digital nomads can now legally work from Italy for up to a year, enjoying the country’s rich culture and lifestyle.

The new visa specifically targets individuals engaging in “highly qualified work activities” using technology that enables remote work. This is part of Italy’s broader strategy to rejuvenate its economy by leveraging the increasing popularity of remote working setups. The visa was officially signed into effect on 28 March 2022, and its full impact and popularity are still being assessed.

Eligibility and Requirements To qualify for the Italian digital nomad visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Demonstrate a stable and sufficient remote income.
• Provide proof of health insurance and a COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
• Have a clean criminal record.
• Show evidence of suitable accommodation in Italy.
• Pay the visa application fee.

Prospective digital nomads need to present bank statements as proof of income to meet the minimum income requirement, which has not yet been specified. The visa application process and the exact types of eligible jobs, defined as “highly qualified”, will be detailed further by the Italian government in the upcoming months.

Application Process The specific steps to apply for the digital nomad visa are expected to be announced soon. Initially, there will be no limit on the number of visas issued annually, but this policy may be adjusted in the future.

Benefits and Considerations The visa allows for an initial stay of one year, with the possibility of renewal if the holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria. Digital nomads in Italy must also navigate various regulations, such as registering for a stay permit if they plan to stay longer than 90 days, and potentially dealing with social security contributions if they are self-employed.