In recent years, the phenomenon of digital nomads in Europe has grown rapidly, driven by new working habits, greater contractual flexibility, and the desire to combine work with quality of life. Countries such as Italy, Spain, and Portugal have equipped themselves to meet this demand, introducing specific legal tools such as the digital nomad visa, designed for those who work remotely on a stable basis for foreign companies or as freelancers.
But where is it really worth living and working remotely in Europe? Which country offers the best balance between bureaucracy, taxation, digital infrastructure, and everyday livability?
The digital nomad visa: requirements and main differences
All three countries analyzed offer a dedicated visa for non EU remote workers, but the features vary significantly.
In Italy, the digital nomad visa has been active since 2024 and is aimed at remote workers with income from non Italian companies. The main requirements are:
- minimum annual income of approximately €28,000 gross
- valid health insurance covering Italy
- self employed or employed remote professional activity
- suitable accommodation and municipal registration
The permit has a duration of 12 months, renewable, and also allows family reunification.
Spain, with its “Digital Nomad Visa” in force since 2023, requires a slightly lower income, around €25,000 per year, in addition to proven professional or academic experience. It offers a duration of up to 5 years and access to a favorable tax regime.
Portugal, instead, offers two visas: the D7 (for those with passive income) and the D8, specifically dedicated to digital nomads. The economic requirement for the D8 is quite high, about €3,040 net per month, but bureaucracy is streamlined and the procedure well established.
Tax regimes: what each country offers remote workers
For those seeking a stable destination for remote working, tax conditions play a fundamental role. Here are the main differences:
Italy: possibility to access the impatriates regime, with a 70% reduction on the IRPEF taxable base for the first 5 years, extendable. In some southern areas the reduction can reach up to 90%.
Spain: flat tax of 24% up to €600,000 per year, valid for 5 years, ideal for those with medium to high incomes.
Portugal: until 2024 the NHR regime was available, with exemptions on foreign income and a 20% rate on local income. From 2025, some benefits will be limited or eliminated for new applicants.
Quality of life and remote communities: where do people live best?
Beyond legal and tax aspects, the best countries for digital nomads also offer infrastructure, services, and environments suitable for remote life.
In Italy, many cities offer a balance between historical beauty and functionality. The most appreciated destinations include:
- Rome, Milan and Bologna for those seeking economic dynamism
- Florence for those who love art with good digital services
- Palermo and other southern villages for those aiming for a lower cost of living and better quality of time
In Spain, the most chosen cities are:
- Barcelona and Madrid, for coworking networks and international connections
- Valencia, ideal for a mild climate and more affordable living
- Las Palmas in the Canary Islands, for the perfect mix of work and sunshine
Portugal is famous for its excellent value for money. The most popular destinations among remote workers are:
- Lisbon, for the lively tech community
- Porto, more relaxed but well connected
- Madeira, where nature meets connectivity
Final considerations: which country to choose for remote work?
Italy, Spain, and Portugal all offer interesting solutions for digital nomads in Europe. The choice depends on a range of personal factors: income expectations, tax needs, language, family services, and lifestyle.
- Portugal continues to be appreciated for simplified bureaucracy and cost of living
- Spain stands out for visa duration and city organization for remote working
- Italy, although arriving later, is consolidating a competitive offering, combining culture, favorable regimes, and a growing ecosystem of smart cities and connected villages
Choosing where to settle as a digital nomad is not a decision to be taken lightly. Each country has its own rules, advantages, and complexities. In some cases, having the right support can help turn a simple idea of relocation into a structured and secure project.
For those who wish to better navigate the Italian framework and understand whether the digital nomad visa in Italy is truly the most suitable solution, there is the possibility of accessing personalized legal, tax, and administrative advice, with all the discretion and accuracy required.
