Italy Digital Nomad Visa - The Complete Guide

If you're a history enthusiast with a deep love for pasta, pizza, and all things cultural, it might be time to consider a stint in Italy under the Italy Digital Nomad Visa — especially if you're lucky enough to have the freedom to work remotely. As the digital nomad lifestyle becomes increasingly mainstream, this visa offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a country that lives and breathes passion, beauty, and tradition.

Italy is an incredibly diverse destination. Along its shimmering Mediterranean coastline, you’ll find some of Europe’s most stunning beaches, while inland, its historical cities offer layers upon layers of cultural legacy. Add to that the small towns and islands known for their regional delicacies and world-class produce, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable experience. It’s a country we love — and we’re confident you will too.

The Italy Digital Nomad Visa is ideal for non-EU/EEA citizens who are self-employed, freelancing, consulting, or working remotely for a company or organisation outside of Italy. If that sounds like you, here are just a few more reasons why living and working in Italy could be the lifestyle change you didn’t know you needed:

• A Celebratory Way of Life: If there’s one thing Italians excel at, it’s celebrating the everyday. Life is lived with intention and flair — whether that means preparing a beautiful meal, enjoying a long conversation, or taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Passion is baked into daily routines, and that makes for a textured, fulfilling lifestyle filled with memorable moments.
• A Slower, More Intentional Rhythm: In Italy, life moves at its own pace — and that’s the charm. In many towns, it’s common for businesses to close for long lunches so employees can return home, cook fresh meals, and spend time with their families. This emphasis on balance and presence is part of what makes life in Italy so enjoyable.
• Affordable Living (Outside the City Centres): While big cities like Milan and Rome come with a higher price tag, there are countless towns and outer suburbs offering much more affordable options — many just a short train ride away. These areas often come with tight-knit communities, incredible food, and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for longer stays.
• A Food Lover’s Paradise: Italy is world-renowned for its cuisine — and for good reason. Simple, fresh ingredients are at the heart of every dish, and meals are treated as rituals, not chores. From handmade pasta to locally sourced cheeses and wines, every region has something special to offer. And who knows? You might just be lucky enough to be invited into a local kitchen for an authentic Nonna’s recipe — the kind of experience that stays with you forever.

Visa Pathways to Live and Work in Italy

Italy has caught onto the wave of the demand and benefits of having a standalone Italy Digital Nomad Visa, offering nomads the opportunity to keep their careers and work ticking along, all while giving back to the economy of the country. Reinvigorating towns and locations that would otherwise be abandoned. 

Any non-EU national who wants to live and work in Italy as self-employed must apply for this visa. Even nationals from countries exempt from Schengen short-stay visas must leave Italy and apply for a long-stay visa from their home country if they intend to work. Nationals of EU countries, such as Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland, do not need a visa to enter, but they must apply for a residence permit if they plan to stay for over 90 days.

You are eligible for an Italy self-employment visa if: 

• You are a non-EU citizen
• You intend to work as a freelancer, start a business, or hold an executive position in a company in Italy
• You meet Italy’s annual immigration quota for self-employment visas (set by the “Decreto Flussi”)
• You have sufficient financial resources to support yourself

Top Tip: Non-EU nationals must check the annual "Decreto Flussi" immigration quota before applying for a self-employment visa, as spots are limited and fill quickly. Ensure you have comprehensive documentation proving your financial stability and specific professional qualifications required for your field of work in Italy.

Documents you will need to apply for the visa: 

• Passport is valid for at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa.
• 2 recent passport-size photographs on a white background.
• A digital nomad visa application form obtained from the Italian Consular office for your location.
• Proof of Remote Work: Documentation that you work remotely for a foreign employer or clients; Proof of at least 6 months of work experience in the industry in which you plan to work remotely (applicants without a university degree have to provide evidence of 5 years of work experience). 
• Tax returns, client invoices, and membership in professional or industrial associations can all be enough evidence of your experience.
• Financial Independence: proof of sufficient financial means to support your stay, an annual income of at least €25,500. This income should stem from the work you will be performing while you reside in Italy and not from any passive forms of income, such as rents, stocks, Social Security, etc.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is mandatory for your stay in Italy.
• Italian Accommodation: Proof of residence in Italy, either through rental or property ownership, is required.
• Proof of the visa application fee payment — €116 per person (depending on home country).

Digital Nomad Visa Application Process

The process for obtaining an Italian self-employment visa involves multiple steps:

• Attend interview: Set up an appointment with the relevant Italian Consulate responsible for the geographical area of your residency 2 to 4 months ahead of time
• Complete the visa application form
• Pay the visa application fee:  €116 per person (depending on home country)
• Proof of Financial Stability: Proof of sufficient funds to support your activity (at least €25,500)
• Submit your documents: Provide legal certifications for your profession, such as enrollment in professional registers, if applicable
• Register with the Chamber of Commerce: Registration with the Chamber of Commerce is needed for tax purposes and to obtain a "Partita IVA" (VAT number)
• Proof of residency: Suitable accommodation (rental or purchase agreement).
• Proof of income: Income evidence showing earnings above the threshold for health care exemption (€8,400)
• Proof of authorisation: Nulla Osta authorisation from the local Immigration Desk (Sportello Unico Immigrazione)
  • Apply for a Nulla Osta: This is an authorisation to work in Italy, obtained from the local Immigration Desk (SUI) before applying for the visa. This step typically requires a proxy to handle the application while still in your home country. Please note that “Nulla Osta” is not required for Digital Nomad Visa applications
  • Register your business: After receiving the Nulla Osta, you must register with the Business Registrar, Companies House, and Tax Registrar
  • Apply for the Self-Employment Visa: Once the Nulla Osta is approved, you can apply for the self-employment visa at the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country
• Submit the documents: Submit all of the mentioned documents (dated no earlier than 3 months) to the relevant Italian diplomatic or consular Representative in your country of origin or permanent residence
• Wait for processing: Wait 30 to 90 days for the visa processing and issuing
• After approval: Once your visa gets approved, you will have a 365-day validity period from the starting date

Your next steps after receiving the Italy digital nomad visa include: 

• Applying for a Permit to Stay (“Permesso di Soggiorno”) within 8 days of arriving in Italy, 
• Applying for a VAT number at your local tax office in Italy (this is obligatory for anyone performing “business or agricultural activity or an artistic or professional activity on a regular basis” and anyone earning over €65,000 (~$71,024.20) as a self-employed person).

Top Tip: Gather all required documentation at least 3-4 months before your intended move date, as processing delays are common and consulate appointments can be challenging to secure. Consider hiring a local Italian immigration assistant or lawyer to help navigate the complex post-arrival procedures, particularly for obtaining your Permesso di Soggiorno within the strict 8-day deadline and setting up your tax identification.

The Best Places to Live in Italy

Rome: is a dynamic city that blends modern life with deep historical roots. Beyond the ancient ruins and landmarks, it’s a thriving hub for professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs. The city is home to a strong expat network, countless co-working spaces, and a well-established international community, making it easier to settle in. While it comes with a higher cost of living compared to other parts of Italy, the range of cultural experiences, professional opportunities, and vibrant nightlife often make it worth the price. 

Florence: offers a slower, more intentional pace that many digital nomads find appealing. Its compact size makes it incredibly walkable, and while it’s best known for its Renaissance art and architecture, it’s also an increasingly popular base for remote workers looking for a balanced, community-focused experience. The city has a growing number of co-working spaces and networking events, and the lifestyle here prioritises quality over speed. 

Milan: is Italy’s most cosmopolitan city, known for its professional energy and global outlook. It’s a strong choice for digital nomads who want access to modern infrastructure, fast-paced industries, and international travel routes. The city has a well-developed public transport system, fast internet, and a wide selection of co-working hubs, especially in creative and business districts. Milan also has a rich cultural scene — from contemporary galleries and theatres to international events and conferences. 

Bologna: is often overlooked, but it’s one of Italy’s most underrated cities for remote workers. It’s well-known for its academic heritage (home to Europe’s oldest university), and the youthful, intellectual energy carries through to its streets, cafés, and creative spaces. The city is affordable, welcoming, and packed with personality — expect long lunches, excellent local food, and vibrant street life. 

Lecce: Located in the Puglia region, Lecce offers a laid-back southern Italian lifestyle with access to beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and a more affordable cost of living. The pace is slower, but the lifestyle is rich — locals are friendly, the food scene is thriving, and there’s a growing expat community who value a more grounded day-to-day experience. Lecce is ideal for digital nomads who want a quieter base without sacrificing cultural depth. 

Booking Experiences Through Global Work & Travel

When living and working in Italy, exploring beyond your home base is a no-brainer. Whether it’s weekend getaways to nearby coastal towns, day trips through wine country, or train rides to historic cities, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the full spectrum of what Italy has to offer. Travelling throughout the country not only deepens your understanding of the culture but adds a whole new layer to your digital nomad experience.

Some of our top picks for travel, work and play in Italy: 

• Teach English in Tuscany: If you want to share your skills, you can Teach English in Tuscany. This program is notably accessible, open to ages 18-60 without requiring a university degree, allowing you to work amidst Tuscany's famous scenery for 1 to 8 months.   
• Study Italian and Immerse Yourself in History: You can study the Italian language in the historic city of Bologna or through a broader cultural immersion program elsewhere in Italy.
• Live like a Cultural Connoisseur: Florence serves as a hub for many short, specialised courses (1-4 weeks) covering cooking, coffee making, painting, art history, ceramics, gelato making, and even sommelier skills, open to a very wide age range (18-85). Additionally, internships in fields like Graphic Design and IT are available for young professionals (ages 18-35) seeking international work experience.   
• Embark on a Roman Adventure: Ideal for young adults (ages 18–39) who enjoy guided travel, the 'Rome to Paris: Cobblestones & Cuisine' tour offers a 20-day journey beginning in Rome—blending rich historical exploration with unforgettable culinary experiences across multiple countries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the Italy Digital Nomad Visa? The Italy Digital Nomad Visa is ideal for non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely — whether you’re freelancing, consulting, self-employed, or employed by a company outside of Italy. It’s designed for professionals who want to live and work in Italy while maintaining their international career.

2. What do I need to apply for the visa? You’ll need a valid passport, proof of remote work, at least €25,500 in annual income, accommodation in Italy, comprehensive health insurance, and several other documents like work experience proof and a completed visa application form. It’s also important to prepare well in advance, as the process involves multiple steps and deadlines.

3. How long does the Italy Digital Nomad Visa last? Once approved, the visa is valid for 12 months. After arriving in Italy, you’ll need to apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (permit to stay) within 8 days and register for a tax identification number (if earning over €65,000 or engaging in regular self-employed work).

4. What are the best cities for digital nomads in Italy?

Top destinations include:

• Rome for a fast-paced, vibrant international lifestyle
• Florence for a slower, art-filled experience
• Milan for its business-friendly infrastructure
• Bologna for academic charm and affordability
• Lecce for beachside living and relaxed southern vibe

Final Thoughts

Italy is one of the most appealing countries to take up on the Digital Nomad Visa. A few of the reasons being the lifestyle, the rich culture and the opportunity to experience so much of Europe on your doorstep. As there are several beautiful locations that aren’t in the major cities, you can escape to a slower style of life, all while still being able to access the best bits of the cities if you want a night out on the cobble street town. 

If you want to learn about the working holiday visa’s for other countries, we have extensive guides for countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Korea, Argentina, Chile, Hong Kong, Estonia, Netherlands, Portugal, Peru, Greece, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, New Zealand, Ecuador, Brazil and more coming.