More and more remote workers are looking to Italy as the ideal destination for an extended stay that combines quality of life, culture, and connection to Europe. The digital nomad visa in Italy, officially introduced in 2024 and fully operational in 2025, opens up new possibilities for non-European freelancers and remote workers. But what are the requirements for the digital nomad visa in Italy in 2025? How do you apply and what are the benefits? In this complete guide, you’ll find all the updated information you need to live in Italy as a digital nomad.
Requirements for the digital nomad visa in Italy in 2025
The visa is reserved for non-EU citizens only. It applies to highly qualified workers who use technological tools to work remotely, either independently or for a company (even a non-Italian one).
According to Article 2 of the Ministry of the Interior Decree dated 29 February 2024, “highly qualified work” refers to “the activity carried out by a foreign national who meets the requirements under Article 27-quater, paragraph 1, of Legislative Decree No. 286 of 25 July 1998.”
It is important to demonstrate a stable work position, even if not linked to Italian territory.
The requirements for the digital nomad visa in Italy in 2025 include:
- Earning legitimate annual income that exceeds three times the threshold for exemption from public healthcare co-payments
- Holding valid health insurance coverage that guarantees medical and hospital care in Italy for the entire period of stay
- Providing appropriate documentation regarding the chosen housing solution
- Certifying at least six months of prior professional experience in the field you intend to work in as a digital nomad or remote worker
- Including contractual documentation or a binding formal job offer, in the case of remote employees, for roles requiring the specific skills outlined in Article 27-quater, paragraph 1, of Legislative Decree No. 286 of 25 July 1998
As mentioned, when it comes to the minimum income for digital nomads, Italian regulations state that “The foreign citizen must demonstrate a gross annual income from lawful sources not less than three times the minimum level required for exemption from public healthcare contributions.”
The exemption threshold in 2024 is approximately €6,500–€7,000 gross per year, so the required minimum income is around €20,000–€21,000 gross.
However, many interpretative sources (though not the decree itself) suggest a threshold closer to €28,000 net per year, assuming a higher gross income to account for taxes, contributions, and expected quality-of-life standards.
How to apply for a digital nomad visa in Italy
First of all, it’s important to note that, to enter Italy as a digital nomad, no work permit (nulla osta) is required—unlike other residence permits. The procedure for how to apply for a digital nomad visa in Italy involves several key steps:
- Document preparation: valid passport, evidence of remote work, income certifications, health insurance, rental contract or accommodation booking
- Application at the Italian consulate in the country of residence: submit all documentation along with the application form
- Waiting for approval: the average processing time is between 30 and 60 working days
- Entry into Italy and request for a residence permit: within 8 days of arrival, you must register at the local Questura
The visa is individual, but family members may accompany the applicant, provided they submit a parallel application for family reasons.
Duration of the digital nomad visa in Italy
The digital nomad visa in Italy is valid for 1 year and is renewable. Renewal is possible as long as the original requirements (income, employment, health coverage) are still met.
Holders of the visa can legally reside in Italy, work remotely for foreign clients, rent a home, and travel freely within the Schengen area for short stays.
Taxes for digital nomads in Italy
A crucial aspect concerns taxes for digital nomads in Italy. Taxation depends on tax residency, which is acquired if you stay in Italy for more than 183 days in a year.
If you become a tax resident, your global income (including foreign income) may be taxed in Italy. However, there are benefits for new residents, including:
- Tax relief for impatriated workers (IRPEF reduction)
- Possibility of excluding foreign income from taxation in certain cases, under bilateral agreements
It is advisable to consult a tax advisor to avoid double taxation and choose the most favorable solution.
Living in Italy as a digital nomad: benefits and opportunities
Beyond bureaucratic and tax aspects, living in Italy as a digital nomad offers several tangible benefits:
- High quality of life: food, climate, culture, and landscapes
- Fast connections to the rest of Europe
- Variable cost of living: more affordable in mid-sized cities and southern Italy
- Active expat communities in cities like Rome, Milan, Palermo, Florence, and Bologna
- Ability to travel to Schengen countries without additional visas
Many professionals choose Italy not only for work, but also to slow down, immerse themselves in a rich culture, and build a more sustainable routine. With the new visa, it’s finally possible to do so legally, safely, and continuously.
