More and more foreign professionals are choosing to move to Italy to start their own business, attracted by the quality of life, the beauty of the country, and a growing freelance ecosystem. But how does the process work for those who want to work independently in Italy? And most importantly, what are the legal requirements to work in Italy as a freelancer?
This step-by-step guide will help you navigate visas, residence permits, and setting up a VAT number, so you can start your new professional life in Italy with confidence and clarity.
Getting a self-employment visa: the first step to relocating
The first hurdle for a freelancer coming to Italy from a non-EU country is obtaining a self-employment visa. This visa is designed for those who wish to work fully independently or collaborate with an Italian company.
To obtain it, several requirements must be met:
- The applicant must have sufficient financial resources to start and carry out the professional activity in the country. Article 39 of Presidential Decree no. 394/1999 states that the Chamber of Commerce must certify the financial resources required.
- The person must meet the Italian legal requirements for performing the specific activity, including registration with professional registers or associations, if applicable.
- A statement from the competent authority, issued no more than three months prior, must confirm that there are no obstacles to granting the required authorization or license for the planned activity.
- The applicant must prove they have suitable accommodation through a rental or purchase agreement, or a declaration made personally or by an Italian citizen or legally resident foreigner confirming housing availability.
- They must also have a lawful income above the legal threshold for exemption from contributing to healthcare expenses. This can be proven by showing equivalent income earned in the home country during the previous year, or—if the visa is requested to hold a company position—by submitting a statement from the company’s legal representative guaranteeing a salary above the set threshold.
The self-employment visa can also be requested by foreign citizens who, for at least three years, have held roles such as president, CEO, board member, or auditor in a joint-stock company, limited liability company, or partnership limited by shares.
A real example: Ana, a digital marketing consultant from Colombia, submitted a detailed business plan to work with both Italian and international clients. She included existing contracts and a bank statement to support her application. Her visa to work in Italy was approved in about two months.
Applying for a residence permit for self-employment
Once you’ve received your visa and arrived in Italy, you have eight working days to apply for a residence permit for self-employment. This process is handled at the Police Headquarters (Questura) of the city where you live.
Required documents include:
- valid passport with visa
- copy of rental contract or proof of accommodation
- Italian tax code (codice fiscale)
- health insurance
- receipt of payment for the residence permit fee
It’s important to follow each step carefully, as any mistake can delay the entire process. At this stage, many people choose to work with an accountant or a specialist agency for foreign nationals.
Opening a VAT number for foreigners: how to work legally
The key step to start working as a freelancer in Italy is opening a VAT number (partita IVA) as a foreigner. This is your tax ID as a self-employed worker in Italy.
You can open it for free at the Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate), selecting the most appropriate tax regime (e.g., the flat-rate regime for those earning under €85,000 per year).
Real-life example: Omar, a Moroccan web developer, opened his VAT number with help from an accountant, choosing the flat-rate regime. He now works with Italian and French clients and enjoys reduced taxation during his first years of business.
Keep in mind that for some regulated professions (like doctor, lawyer, or architect), you may also need to register with the relevant professional association in Italy.
Living and working in Italy as a foreigner: what to keep in mind
Beyond the legal steps, it’s important to understand the human side of living and working in Italy as a foreigner. Understanding the work culture, learning the language, and building a local network are key to feeling integrated and achieving success.
Attend networking events, take advantage of coworking spaces in major cities, and explore the benefits offered by small Italian towns that provide incentives to foreign freelancers. Every choice you make can help create a richer and more stable professional path.
