Italy Digital Nomad Visa: Your 2025 Guide to Remote Work in Italy

If you're dreaming of working from a sun-soaked terrace in Rome, a cabin in the Dolomites, or a villa on the Italian Riviera, the newly implemented Italy Digital Nomad Visa may be your path to la dolce vita. This visa, which officially launched in 2024, is Italy’s formal invitation for non-EU remote workers to live legally in the country while earning income from abroad.

This guide breaks down how to apply, who qualifies, how long you can stay, the financial requirements, and what to expect once you arrive.

What Is the Italy Digital Nomad Visa?

Italy’s digital nomad visa is a residence permit created specifically for highly skilled non-EU remote workers. It allows individuals who are self-employed, freelancers, or employed by foreign companies to live and work in Italy for up to 12 months, with the option to renew annually.

Unlike tourist visas, this permit offers legal clarity, freedom from illegal employment risks, and a possible pathway to long-term residence if you choose to renew or transition to other visa types.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet the following core conditions:

• You are a non-EU or non-EEA citizen (because EU citizens don't need a visa to live and work in Italy).

• You work remotely for a company or clients outside Italy.

• You are highly skilled, which typically means holding a university degree or equivalent qualification.

• You have been working remotely for at least six months before applying.

• You do not intend to work with Italian companies or offer services to the Italian domestic market.

  
  

This visa is open to freelancers, entrepreneurs, startup owners, and full-time remote employees—provided the employer is located outside Italy.

Income and Financial Requirements

To prove your ability to support yourself while in Italy, you must meet a minimum annual income threshold.

As of 2025, this threshold is set at approximately €28,000 to €32,000 per year, but some regions may require more, depending on living costs and local policies.

You will need to show:

• Income statements (bank records, payslips, tax returns).

• Invoices and client contracts (if freelance/self-employed).

• A letter from your employer stating your remote status (if employed).

Note: Income must come from non-Italian sources.

Required Documents

The application process requires a detailed set of documents, most of which must be officially translated into Italian. Expect to submit:

• A valid passport (with at least six months' validity).

• Proof of income (bank statements, tax returns, contracts).

• Proof of accommodation in Italy (rental agreement or letter of hospitality).

• Health insurance valid in Italy for the duration of your stay.

• A clean criminal background check (apostilled and translated).

• A degree or diploma (if required to verify "highly skilled" status).

• Proof of remote work activity, such as a business registration or employment letter.

It is also necessary to complete the application form and pay a visa fee.

Application Process

1. Apply at the Italian consulate in your country of residence. Book an appointment and bring all required documents.

2. Submit your application and pay the applicable fees. Processing can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months.

3. If approved, you will be issued a national D visa, which allows entry into Italy for long-term stay.

4. Within 8 days of arriving in Italy, you must go to your local Questura (police station) to apply for a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit).

This permit will cover your stay in Italy and must be renewed annually if you wish to remain longer.

How Long Can You Stay?

The visa is valid for 12 months, with an option to renew annually as long as you continue to meet all the requirements.

You can leave and re-enter Italy multiple times during your visa period. After 5 consecutive years of legal residence in Italy, you may become eligible for a long-term residence permit.

Taxes for Digital Nomads in Italy

Whether or not you’ll need to pay tax in Italy depends on how long you stay and whether you become a tax resident.

You are considered a tax resident in Italy if you:

• Stay in the country for more than 183 days per year, and

• Register your residence with the local commune.

Tax residents must report worldwide income, but tax treaties may prevent double taxation. Italy also has favorable tax incentives for new residents under certain programs, such as the “impatriati regime,” which can reduce income tax liability for up to 5 years.

Non-residents are only taxed on income earned within Italy, which should not apply to digital nomads whose income is entirely foreign-based. Still, consulting a tax professional is highly recommended.

Cost of Living in Italy

Italy has a wide range of living costs depending on your region.

• Rome & Milan: €1,800–€2,500/month for moderate lifestyle

• Florence, Bologna: €1,500–€2,000/month

• Southern Italy & small towns: €1,000–€1,500/month

  
  

Cities like Palermo, Bari, and Lecce offer a lower cost of living with warm climates and good internet connectivity—ideal for digital nomads on a tighter budget. Coworking spaces are widespread in major urban centers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long can I stay in Italy on the digital nomad visa?

The visa is valid for 12 months and can be renewed yearly. After 5 years of legal stay, you may be eligible for long-term residency.

Is there a minimum income requirement?

Yes. You must earn at least €28,000 to €32,000 per year from foreign sources to qualify. This can vary by region.

Can I bring my spouse or children?

Yes. Family members may apply for a family reunification visa. You'll need to demonstrate additional income and provide official documents such as marriage and birth certificates, translated into Italian.

Can I apply while already in Italy?

No. The application must be started from outside Italy at an Italian consulate in your home or residence country.

Do I need to pay taxes in Italy?

If you stay more than 183 days per year, you may become a tax resident and be required to declare foreign income. Italy does have tax agreements to prevent double taxation.

Can I renew the visa?

Yes. As long as you continue to meet the income, remote work, and insurance requirements, you may renew your visa annually.

Does this visa lead to permanent residency?

Not directly. But if you legally reside in Italy for 5 continuous years under this visa or others, you may apply for long-term EU residency.

Pros and Cons of the Italy Digital Nomad Visa

Pros:

• Live legally in Italy while working remotely

• Potential pathway to long-term residence

• No tax on foreign income if you stay under 183 days

• Strong digital infrastructure in most cities

• Rich culture, cuisine, and travel options

  
  

Cons:

• High documentation burden (especially translations)

• Minimum income threshold may be difficult for some freelancers

• Application must be initiated from abroad

• Regional variation in requirements and implementation

• Tax residency risks if stay is longer than 183 days

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Is Italy the Right Fit for Digital Nomads?

Italy’s digital nomad visa is well-suited for experienced, mid- to high-earning remote professionals who want to immerse themselves in Italian life. With year-round beauty, excellent transportation, strong health services, and a good work-life balance, Italy offers a lifestyle few places can match.

If you meet the income and work requirements and can handle the paperwork, the Italy Digital Nomad Visa may be the start of a beautiful chapter in one of Europe’s most iconic countries.