How to Apply for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa in 2025: Your Guide to Working Remotely in Italy

Dreaming of working from a sun-drenched terrace in Rome or sipping espresso between Zoom calls in Florence? Italy’s new digital nomad visa might just be your golden ticket.

Italy, long beloved for its rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights, has joined the growing list of countries offering a digital nomad visa—an official way for remote workers to live and work in the country legally.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Italy’s digital nomad visa: who it’s for, what the requirements are, and how to apply.

What is the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?

After enacting a law for remote workers in March 2022, Italy officially introduced the Italian Digital Nomad Visa in April 2024. This visa is issued under Article 27-quinquies of the Italian Consolidated Immigration Act (Testo Unico sull'Immigrazione)—a newly added provision aimed at regulating the entry and stay of “highly qualified workers who carry out their professional activity remotely using technological tools.”

Whether employed by a company outside Italy, managing your online business, or providing freelance services to international clients, this visa offers the perfect opportunity to live and work legally in Italy. It’s also family-friendly, allowing for family reunification, so your spouse and children can join you on your Italian adventure. Essentially, if you can do your job from a laptop and your clients or employer are based abroad, this visa is made for you!

So, if you’ve ever thought, “What if I just moved to Italy and worked from there?”—this visa is Italy’s way of saying: Benvenuto. Let’s make it happen.

How to get the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?

The new decree eliminates the need for applicants to obtain a Nulla Osta (the prior authorization from the Ministry of Labour), streamlining the application process and shortening the processing time for this specific visa.

Additionally, a key benefit of the digital nomad and remote worker visa is that applicants are not subject to the restrictions of the "Decreto Flussi"—the decree that sets a cap on the number of work visas granted to foreigners.

What are the requirements for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?

To apply for this visa, you must meet specific requirements set by Italian immigration authorities. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key requirements:

• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens only. Must be employed remotely by a company outside Italy or be self-employed with international clients.

• Employment contract or freelance agreements with clients or companies based outside Italy. For self-employed individuals, provide business proof with international clients.

• Show a stable income of at least €28,000 per year (subject to consulate rules). Submit bank statements or tax returns to prove income.

• Valid health insurance that covers you in Italy for the entire duration of your stay.

• Lease agreements or temporary accommodation (like hotel bookings) showing where you’ll stay in Italy.

• Provide a police certificate or background check from the last five years to confirm you have no serious criminal record.

• University degree or professional experience in a remote work field (e.g., tech, design, marketing).

• At least 6 months of remote work experience is helpful, though not mandatory.

Please note that while this list covers the main requirements, additional documents may be requested depending on your individual situation. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to consult the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country to get a complete list of necessary documents tailored to your case.

How to apply for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?

1. Gather required documents:

2. Passport

3. Remote work proof or contracts

4. Proof of qualifications (university degree, portfolio, etc.)

5. Income proof

6. Background check

7. Health insurance

8. Accommodation confirmation

9. Submit your application to your nearest Italian consulate or embassy.

10. Once your visa is approved, travel to Italy and apply for a residence permit within 8 days of arrival.

Tip: Consult an Italian immigration consultant or legal expert to streamline your application.

Duration of the Italian Residence Permit

The Italy Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU nationals to live and work remotely in Italy for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of annual renewal, provided that the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria. ​

Upon arrival in Italy, visa holders must apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days. This permit is typically issued for the same duration as the initial visa. Renewal applications should be submitted at least 60 days before the permit's expiration. ​

After five years of continuous legal residence in Italy, digital nomads may be eligible to apply for permanent residency, and after an additional five years, they can consider applying for Italian citizenship, subject to fulfilling all legal requirements.

Can I bring my family members on the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?

You can apply for a family reunification visa if you wish to bring your spouse and children, showing you can support them financially. This allows your spouse and dependent children to join you in Italy during your stay.

Eligible Family Members:

You can sponsor the following immediate family members:

• Spouse: Your legally married partner.

• Children under 18: Biological or legally adopted children.

• Stepchildren: Children from your spouse’s previous relationship, provided there is consent from the other parent.

Note: Children over 18 and parents are not eligible for reunification under this visa. 

Do Digital Nomads pay tax in Italy?

If you spend 183 days or more in Italy within a calendar year, you are considered a tax resident and are subject to Italian taxation on your worldwide income.

Tax Regimes for Digital Nomads:

Italy offers two favourable tax regimes for newcomers:

1. Regime Forfettario: A simplified tax system for self-employed individuals earning up to €85,000 annually. For the first five years, a 5% flat tax is applied to a percentage (typically 78%) of gross income.

2. Impatriates Regime: Provides a 50% tax exemption on earned income for self-employed and employed individuals relocating to Italy. This regime applies to income up to €600,000 per year.

   
   

Social security contributions

In addition to income tax, digital nomads working in Italy are generally required to contribute to the Italian social security system (INPS). However, U.S. citizens may opt to remain covered by the U.S. Social Security system under the Totalization Agreement between the U.S. and Italy, provided they obtain appropriate certification.

Benefits of working remotely from Italy

Working remotely from Italy offers a fantastic mix of work and leisure. Here are the top benefits:

1. Inspiring Environment: Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and beautiful cities while working from iconic locations like Rome or Tuscany.

2. Cultural Immersion: Live amidst Italy’s rich history, art, and delicious cuisine, balancing work with travel and exploration.

3. Great Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, with ample time for leisure, family, and socializing.

4. Networking: Italy has a growing community of remote workers and entrepreneurs, offering plenty of opportunities to connect.

5. Travel Opportunities: Living in Italy gives you easy access to travel throughout Europe.

6. Affordable Living: Outside of major cities, Italy offers an affordable cost of living, allowing you to enjoy a high quality of life.

In short, Italy is an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking work flexibility, cultural experiences, and a relaxed lifestyle.

Final thoughts: Is the Italy Digital Nomad Visa right for you?

If you're a remote worker dreaming of living in Italy, the 2025 Digital Nomad Visa could be your ideal solution. It gives you legal status, access to local amenities, and the freedom to enjoy Italy’s lifestyle—all while keeping your global career on track.