Italy launches digital nomad visa program

“Italy is proving to be fertile soil for digital nomads and remote workers. In fact, it probably is the most attractive immigration option with complete access to the European Union.”
 

ITALY DIGITAL NOMAD VISA PROGRAM

It comes as a pleasant surprise to both Italians and non-Italians. Italian authorities recently announced the introduction of a digital nomad visa pathway, which aims to provide individuals with an opportunity to live and work remotely within the country.

Working remotely in Italy presents a significant amount of unique opportunities for the fortunato. With strong WiFi and modern day amenities, there is still an old world charm that is stuck in time.

There is no shortage of hilltop villages or seaside escapes where you can post up with a laptop and simply live the good life.

The digital nomad visa program for Italy provides a one-year temporary residency, and does not require sponsorship or employment. You will need to provide proof of income and bank-balance statements amongst other documents to meet these requirements.

Is Italy introducing a Digital Nomads Visa? Yes, it seems that in May 2022 you will be able to apply for a Digital Nomad visa outside of Italy through the Italian Consulate where you reside.

Access to the European Union

Italy is not the first EU country to allow Digital Nomads from non-EU to secure a VISA to enter the country. Estonia, Portugal, Spain, Croatia, and Czech Republic are ahead of Italy. However the Italy program sounds very promising as it has little to no limitations, and the procedure to apply looks very smooth.

Who Qualifies?

The digital nomad visa program for Italy aims to attract two categories of workers:

  1. Digital nomads

  2. Remote workers


This is a huge step for those who wish to live the famous dulce vita in Italy. Previously, for those who were “self-employed” there were many restrictions and only applicable to doctorate level professionals (i.e. doctors, lawyers, scientists).

Therefore, if you are someone who falls into one of these broader categories — i.e. if you are able to work remotely for your employer, or are truly one of the free-wheeling digital nomads who can take your laptop and head to the nearest cobblestoned piazza or seaside retreat — well this may be a tempting option.

At the moment Italy already have a self employment, however it has multiple exceptions and caveats, and it is only available to certain professions (accountants, lawyers, doctors etc.).

The Visa Process

On the surface, the Italian Digital Nomad visa requirements seem fairly straightforward. What is required for the Italian digital nomad visa:

  1. Proof of income;

  2. You must currently own, operate or manage a freelance business;

  3. You must have qualifying health coverage; and

  4. Proof of Lodging.

The nicest part about this is the lack of involvement from internal Italian authorities (i.e. Nulla Osta). It is actually meant to be a seamless and clearcut process that can be handled by the Italian consulate in your country of residence. This means there is no need for any clearance certificate from Italian authorities (tax office, Chamber of Commerce, Labor department etc.).

Taxes for Digital Nomads in Italy

For those who are seriously considering relocating to Italy on the Digital Nomad visa, you must consider the tax implications. The Digital Nomad visa will provide you with a temporary resident status, which means you may be required to declare taxes in Italy.

That said, Italy is positioned to be one of the most favorable tax regimes for foreigners in the European Union. On the Digital Nomad visa you can effectively be eligible for two impatriate regimes that provide significant incentives:

  1. Regime Forfettario;

  2. New Residents Regime.

Overall, the Regime Forfettario allows you to pay a flat 5% tax on your earnings, while the new residents regime allows for a reduction of your taxable income between 70% and 90%! If you are a new resident in Sicily and you make € 100,000 in taxes you won’t pay a single € in taxes.

Paying taxes internationally is always a complicated matter. For example, if you are a U.S. Citizen you are liable to declare taxes regardless of where you reside.

✈ Check out this Live Interview about Digital Nomad & Remote Worker Visas in Italy ✈