Italia Digital Nomad and remote workers visa

On March 28, 2022, the Italian government decided to introduce, by amending the Italian immigration law, a new category of long-term visa and residence permit for digital nomads and remote workers.

The practical implementation of such a visa and residence permit, however, is linked to the approval of an implementing decree that, at least to date, has not yet been officially approved by the relevant ministries.

After 2 long years of waiting, as of March 2024, it seems that something has moved and unofficial news has begun to spread about the actual implementation of this new visa following the signing of the implementing decree by the Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, and Ministry of Labor-as of today, however, the whole world is still anxiously awaiting the publication of the decree!

Who are digital nomads and remote workers?

A "digital nomad" is considered a non-EU citizen who performs highly specialized activities remotely, either as a self-employed person or as an employee of a company, not necessarily operating in Italy.

What are the characteristics of the Digital Nomad visa?

Those who wish to obtain a Digital Nomad visa must be able to demonstrate:

• a gross annual income of an amount not less than three times the minimum required for social allowance (approximately 28,000 euros)

• the ownership of medical insurance against accidents and illness that extends for the entire duration of the visa

• the availability of housing in Italy

• experience of at least 6 months as a digital nomad or remote worker

The procedure in a nutshell

The digital nomad visa is not subject to the numerical limits of the "flow decree," and it is not necessary to apply for and obtain a work authorization to obtain it.

In fact, the visa application must be submitted directly to the Italian Embassy or Consulate in the worker's foreign country of residence.

In the event that the process is successful and the digital nomad visa is issued, the holder must enter Italy and within 8 days apply for a residence permit and attend the fingerprinting appointment at the Police office following which they will be summoned to collect the residence permit.

Benefits and burdens of obtaining a Digital Nomad visa

The digital nomad visa will be issued with a duration of 1 year and will allow the holder to obtain a residence permit of the same duration.

Holders of a visa and permit for digital nomads will be required to comply with Italian regulations on taxation and social security, thus paying the taxes due in Italy and, if there is no social security agreement between Italy and the foreign country of origin, the payment of social security contributions in Italy.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

Our team is available to provide support and assistance throughout the process! Contact us to book your first consultation with us and to start the process of obtaining a Digital Nomad visa! #YourWaytoItaly

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

Article written by Alessia Ajelli, Managing Associate of LCA Studio Legale, Italian lawyer specialized on Italian immigration and citizenship law, and Paolo Grassi, Trainee of LCA Studio Legale.