Self-employment visa for consultants and freelancers

Article 26 of Legislative Decree 286/98 deals with the residence permit for self-employed workers, including "freelance" workers, i.e., those who carry out an activity, such as that of a consultant, in a professional manner. These can obtain a residence permit for self-employment.

This type of visa and permit for self-employment is subject to the numerical limitations of the "flow decree".

A residence permit for self-employment is usually issued for a duration of 1 year and is renewable as long as the conditions for issuance are maintained.

Who can apply for it?

The visa and residence permit for self-employment for free-lancers can be applied for by the non-EU citizen who:

i.                has suitable accommodation in Italy

ii.               has economic resources above the minimum level established by law for exemption from the health contribution (8,500 euros)

iii.             is in possession of the certificates/documents/attestations required by the type of self-employed activity to be carried out (one must possess the legal requirements for carrying out the activity in question, including, when required, the requirements for registration with professional registers)

The procedure in a nutshell

Here is what to do to apply for a visa and residence permit for self-employment as a freelancer:

1. obtain the authorization (nulla osta) from the territorially competent Chamber of Commerce

2. obtain proof of financial parameters from the territorially competent Chamber of Commerce

3. obtain provisional authorization (nulla osta temporaneo) from the territorially competent Police office

4. produce documentation proving the fulfillment of housing, income and personal requirements to undertake the chosen activity

The visa application must be made to the Italian Embassy or Consulate in the foreign country of residence, which has full discretion over its issuance. In the event that the process is successful, and the self-employment visa is issued, the holder must enter Italy and within 8 days apply for a residence permit and undergo photo identification at the Police office following which he or she will be summoned to collect the residence permit.

Benefits of obtaining a self-employment visa as free-lancers

Holders of a visa residence permit for self-employment may, by demonstrating presence in Italy for at least 5 years, residency and a reasonable income, apply for an EU long-term residence permit and, upon reaching 10 years of residence in Italy, proceed to apply for Italian citizenship by residence.

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 to obtain a self-employment visa and residence permit! #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.