Italy establishes digital nomad visa for remote workers — how to qualify

Ciao, remote workers!

Italy has launched a digital nomad visa to allow remote workers to live and work in the country long-term.

The visa went into effect on April 4, permitting foreigners to remain in the country for up to a year. It can be renewed annually.

The Italian government defines a digital nomad as a citizen of non-European Union states “who carries out a highly qualified work activity with the use of technological tools capable of allowing them to work remotely, both as a worker self-employed or as a collaborator or employee of a company even if not resident in Italy,” according to EuroNews.

The government is hoping to welcome highly skilled remote workers to enjoy la dolce vita as long as they meet certain requirements.

Applicants must be tax compliant and have an annual income of at least three times the minimum level for exemption from participation in healthcare costs in Italy — about $30,000 annually.

However, they must sign up for a health insurance plan that lasts their entire stay.

Digital nomads will also need to prove they have suitable accommodations and they have been digital nomads or remote workers elsewhere for at least six months.

But even if an applicant can meet these requirements, they shouldn’t bother applying if they have been convicted of a crime within the last five years — even with a non-definitive sentence. You will automatically be denied.

Those who are accepted will be allowed to bring family members along with them as long as the local police approve a residence permit for the family.

If approved, digital nomads should begin brushing up on their Italian — they have eight days from their arrival in Italy to apply for a residence permit.

Remote workers who qualify will need to book an in-person appointment at an Italian consulate in their country of residence to have their application approved.

Countries including Portugal and Spain have launched similar programs.