Since I have Italian roots and I had dreamed for a while to live and maybe even work there, I explore here the Italian digital nomad visa. It turns out there is no “Italy digital nomad visa”, but I will try to find alternatives.
A digital nomad is someone who works remotely, often while traveling, using the power of technology to conduct their job from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Digital nomads come from a variety of industries and backgrounds, including writing, graphic design, web development, marketing, and more.
With the rise of remote work, the digital nomad lifestyle has become increasingly popular. Digital nomads enjoy the freedom of location independence, being able to work from anywhere as long as they have a laptop and an internet connection. For many, it’s a dream come true to be able to work and travel at the same time.
One of the most appealing destinations for digital nomads is Italy, a country renowned for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food. Italy offers a unique blend of traditional and modern living, making it a fantastic location for digital nomads. The country has a strong economy and is home to many international companies, making it a hub for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Advantages of living in Italy
Living in Italy as a digital nomad has several benefits, including:
Access to high-speed internet: Italy has a good standard of internet connectivity, making it easy for digital nomads to stay connected while they work. please remember the North is much more “organized” than the South.
Rich culture: Italy is a country steeped in history and culture, with a wealth of museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore. Literally thousands of years of history are at your disposal.
Excellent food: Italy is famous for its delicious cuisine, and digital nomads will have the opportunity to sample a wide range of dishes and local specialties. Pasta for lunch and pizza for dinner? Sign me up!
Beautiful landscapes: Italy boasts a stunning landscape, with scenic hills, beaches, and countryside that are perfect for exploring and relaxing in. The alps are breathtaking and all but I love the Mediterranean and its beaches.
And some drawbacks…
However, living in Italy as a digital nomad is not without its challenges. One of the biggest issues is the cost of living, which can be quite high, especially in popular tourist destinations such as Rome and Florence. This means that digital nomads need to plan their budgets carefully and be prepared for a higher cost of living compared to other countries.
No actual digital nomad visa: What visa can one get?
Getting a visa in Italy is relatively straightforward, and it is open to anyone who is interested in living in the country for more than 90 days and working as a “self-employed” individual (a remote worker would qualify). The visa is called an Italian “Self Employment Visa.” To apply one must go to the official immigration portal.
To get the visa, you will need to provide evidence of your freelance or remote work, as well as proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself while you are in Italy. You will also need to show proof of health insurance, as well as a valid passport.
Italy is working on implementing a more regular “digital nomad visa” to compete with other similar countries in the region and in the world that offer one. The COVID pandemic has accelerated the development of these new ways to work and live and Italy doesn’t want to be left behind.
In conclusion, Italy is a fantastic destination for digital nomads, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern living, along with a wealth of cultural, historic, and scenic attractions. The process of getting a usable visa in Italy is relatively straightforward, and it offers the opportunity for remote workers to live and work in the country for up to one year. Despite the high cost of living, Italy is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the freedom of remote work while exploring all that this beautiful country has to offer.