Does Italy have a digital nomad visa, and what are the requirements?
Updated · Italy guide · Not legal advice
Yes. Italy's digital nomad and remote worker visa has been available since the decree of 29 February 2024 took effect on 4 April 2024. It is for non-EU nationals doing highly qualified work remotely, as self-employed "digital nomads" or as employees ("remote workers"), with income of at least about €28,000 a year, health insurance, suitable accommodation in Italy and a clean criminal record.
| Requirement | What it means | Typical proof |
|---|---|---|
| Nationality | Non-EU citizen | Passport |
| Highly qualified work | Work that counts as highly qualified under art. 27-quater of Legislative Decree 286/1998 | Degree or evidence of relevant professional experience |
| Remote work experience | At least 6 months' prior experience in remote work (confirm with the consulate) | Employer letter, contracts |
| Income | At least about €28,000/year | Payslips, tax returns, bank statements |
| Health insurance | Cover for medical care and hospitalisation in Italy for the stay | Policy certificate |
| Accommodation | Suitable housing in Italy | Registered lease or purchase contract |
| Criminal record | No relevant convictions in the last years | Police certificate (FBI for US), legalised |
Digital nomads vs remote workers
Italy uses two labels. Digital nomads are self-employed and work with clients through technology. Remote workers are employees of a company (inside or outside Italy) who work remotely. Both apply for the same visa category.
Where you apply
At the Italian embassy or consulate covering where you live. In the US, appointments are typically booked through Prenot@mi. See Italian consulates in the US. Use Visto per l'Italia to check the visa type for your situation.
After you arrive
You must apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 working days of entering Italy. See the residence permit after the visa.
Quick answers
- Does Italy have a digital nomad visa now?
- Yes. It has been available since 4 April 2024 for non-EU digital nomads and remote workers.
- How much income do you need for Italy's digital nomad visa?
- At least about €28,000 a year. Confirm the current figure on your consulate's checklist. See income requirement.
- Is the Italy digital nomad visa hard to get?
- It asks for more than Spain's in some areas: a registered lease or purchase contract for housing and proof of highly qualified work. Consulate appointment availability can also be a bottleneck.
- Is the Italy digital nomad visa better than Spain's?
- It depends on your income and paperwork. Spain's threshold for one person is €2,849/month and lets you file from inside Spain. See the comparison.
What to do next
Comparing Italy with Spain? Check whether you qualify for Spain's nomad visa in two minutes.
Run the free eligibility checkSources
- Gazzetta Ufficiale: decree of 29 February 2024 on digital nomads and remote workers (published 4 April 2024)
- Ministero degli Esteri: Visto per l'Italia (visa finder)
- Prenot@mi: Italian consulate appointment booking
- Embassy of Italy in Washington, DC
Checked: . Rules change; confirm current values on the official pages above before you file.