If you’re a fan of romance, history, fashion, and food, then Italy is undoubtedly the destination of your dreams. Hoping for more than a holiday? How about sipping espresso while working remotely?
That’s right. Italy has officially introduced a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) for non-European Union remote workers. This means it’s now easier than ever for digital nomads to live and work from a tuscan piazza or while riding the train from Rome to Salerno.
If you’re a Canadian or United States citizen and looking to take advantage of this opportunity, here’s everything you need to know about the Italy digital nomad VISA.
Eligibility for the Italy digital nomad VISA
The Digital Nomad and Remote Worker National Visa is designed for highly skilled remote workers who are either freelancer for international clients or otherwise employed by non-Italian companies.
Eligibility includes:
- You are not a citizen of the European Union (including Canadians and Americans).
- You currently work remotely as a freelancer or for a company or clients outside Italy.
- You have a high annual income of “an amount at least equal to the triple of the minimum income level to be exempted in Italy from participating in medical and public assistance” (Estimates suggest at least €28,000–€35,000 per year).
- You have relevant skills and proof of remote work experience in your field.
- You have your own valid health insurance that will include coverage of your stay in Italy.
- You have appropriate accommodation in Italy (a rental agreement or proof of residence is typically required).
- You have no criminal record and can provide a police clearance certificate.
Applying for the Italy digital nomad VISA
1. Gather your documents
Before you apply, you’ll need to have several crucial documents, including:
- Proof of employment or freelance work
- Proof of income, eg. bank statements or tax returns
- Health insurance with coverage for travel in Italy
- A rental contract, property deed, or other proof of accommodation
- Criminal background check
- Valid passport
- Completed and signed Visa application form
2. Submit your application
You can submit your completed application at your nearest Italian consulate or embassy in Canada or the United States.
3. Attend an interview
Be prepared to attend an interview at the consulate wherein you’ll provide additional details about your remote work, income, and reasons for becoming a digital nomad in Italy.
4. Await approval
While processing times vary, it could take up to three months for a decision.
5. Apply for a residence permit in Italy
On arrival in Italy, you must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (Residence Permit) within eight days at the local immigration office (Questura).
Note that the Italy Digital Nomad Visa is valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
Bonus tips
- Apply early as processing times can vary.
- Have documents translated into Italian and legalized if needed.
- Even in the case of meeting the income requirement, having extra savings is beneficial to your application and sense of financial security.
- Remember that Italian visa policies can change, so always check with the official Italian consulate website for the most up-to-date information.
