Italy’s Upcoming Digital Nomad Visa

Italy, one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, plans to join other European countries by launching a digital nomad visa in the near future. For many, 30-90 days is   not enough to experience everything the country offers, so applying for this digital nomad visa can give you enough time to experience Italy's rich history and natural attractions. The Italian government passed laws in 2022 that allow it to create this digital nomad visa, and you may be able to apply for this visa later this year. In the meantime, it is best to look out for updates, prepare typical documentation required for digital nomad visas, and explore other self-employment or business visas in Italy if you are in a rush.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

LIVING IN ITALY

Italy received nearly 100 million tourists per year before Covid and is arguably one of the top tourist destinations in Europe. In the past, it took a lot of work for digital nomads to live in Italy, as the only options were work visas, tourist visas, or other self-employment and investor visas. Digital nomads who chose to work in Italy on a tourist visa were limited to 90 days.

Internet Speed: Another benefit of living in Italy is that the internet speed in Italy is acceptable. Italy’s fixed broadband internet download speed is 60.38 Mbps.

Alternative Cities: There are multiple places for digital nomads to live in Italy, apart from the most popular destinations like Rome, Florence, and Milan. Alternative coastal destinations like Palermo, Amalfi, and Cagliari offer stunning views of the Italian coast and have slightly lower living costs.

Perks of Being a Long-Term Tourist: Living in Italy as a digital nomad also provides you with the opportunity to gradually enjoy tourism opportunities throughout the year, depending on your work schedule. There are over 4,000 museums, galleries, archeological sites, and other cultural institutions in Italy, so even one year is not enough time to see everything the country has to offer.

Cost of Living: Average wages in Italy are around €30,000/year ($32,592 USD/year), while there is no official minimum wage in the country. Digital nomads may be able to find an apartment around €1,000/month ($1,086 USD/month) in Milan or other smaller cities.

Related content: The Basics Of How To Get A Second Passport Or A Second Residency

Scilla, Calabria, Italy

ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN ITALY

The Italian government is keen to support digital nomads and entrepreneurship, even though entrepreneurship in Italy currently needs to catch up to European peers. Italy is ranked 53rd out of 60 based on the population’s perception of business opportunities and 56th out of 60 in terms of people’s belief that they can start a business.

Italy has a number of initiatives to support entrepreneurs in the country, including start-up visas, soft loans for select small businesses, government-supported venture capital investing, and various tax incentives. Some smaller towns in Italy may even pay entrepreneurs to move to smaller villages in Italy if they hire local talent in these areas.

The government also recognizes the role that digital nomads can play in the local economy, so Italy is a great choice for digital nomads with a long-term interest in Europe. Other regional countries, such as Spain, have also drafted new laws to help support digital nomads and entrepreneurs in the country.

Related content: Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

Naples, Italy

WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THIS DIGITAL NOMAD VISA SO FAR

Italy signed a decree into law in March 2022, which created legal clarity for the status of digital nomads in Italy. Although this law has been finalized, the government has yet to officially announce when the visa will be available for digital nomads. This visa will be available for any non-EU citizen working for a company outside of Italy, and there are not currently any other specific country restrictions mentioned.

The current definition of a digital nomad is someone who can carry out highly qualified work remotely through the use of technological tools. This definition could apply to most remote employees and digital nomads who perform services for global companies, although the Italian government still needs to create a list of eligible professions and specific industries.

The income requirements for this program have yet to be set. Other European digital nomad visa programs require applicants to have 2-3x the country’s monthly minimum wage. However, the government has not confirmed an amount, and Italy does not have an official minimum wage. Italy is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, and digital nomads should expect higher living costs, even in smaller cities.

Other European digital nomad visa programs require supporting documentation like proof of income, health insurance, accommodation information, and other personal information. However, the government still needs to confirm these details. It is best to have these documents prepared in advance anyway if you plan to apply for any digital nomad visa.

Related content: 8 Easiest Digital Nomad Visa Programs

Venice, Italy

ALTERNATIVES TO CHECK OUT AND FUTURE UPDATES

Since it is still being determined when Italy will officially launch this digital nomad visa, it may be worthwhile for some people to explore alternatives if they have their hearts set on Italy. You are currently not allowed to work in Italy on a tourist visa, but there are other options to consider while you wait for this new digital nomad visa.

Self-Employment Visa: Applicants are able to apply for this visa if they operate a small business in Italy or are a sole trader in Italy. Moreover, if you have immigrated to Italy to study or for other purposes, you can convert your visa to a self-employment visa. You may also be able to work in certain industries on their visa.

Setting up a Company: You can also live in Italy if you register a company in the country, or also if you set up a subsidiary or representative office in Italy. Legal representatives or minority shareholders of Italian companies are also eligible to apply.

Related content: What Is A Digital Nomad Visa And How Can You Get One?

Portofino, Italy

CONCLUSION

Digital nomads should be on the lookout for this upcoming digital nomad visa, which will provide an excellent opportunity to experience Italy. Italy already has a self-employment visa and passed new laws in March 2022 to help facilitate the creation of a digital nomad visa. Although the launch date is not final, this program may be available in the near future.