What Is the Digital Nomad Visa?
Italy's Digital Nomad Visa (Visto per Nomadi Digitali) was introduced in 2022 and allows remote workers to live and work legally in Italy for 12 months, with one renewal for an additional 12 months — up to 2 years total. It covers freelancers, employees of foreign companies and business owners who earn their income outside Italy.
Who Qualifies?
- Minimum monthly income of USD $1,500 (or equivalent) from foreign sources
- Valid passport from any nationality (no country restrictions)
- Remote work that generates income outside Italy
- Valid international health insurance covering Italy
- Clean criminal record from your home country (last 5 years)
Required Documents
- Completed Digital Nomad Visa application form (from your Italian consulate website)
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Passport-size photos (recent, white background)
- Proof of income (bank statements OR employment contract)
- International health insurance certificate (covering Italy)
- Clean criminal record certificate (apostilled from your home country)
- Proof of accommodation in Italy (at least first address)
- Application fee payment receipt
How to Apply
Option 1 — Italian consulate in your home country (recommended): Book an appointment at your nearest Italian consulate. Submit documents in person. This is the most reliable route.
Option 2 — Itamaraty online portal: Some nationalities can apply online at the Itamaraty e-consular portal (vistoperitalia.esteri.it). Check the portal for your nationality's eligibility.
Option 3 — In-country application: If you're already in Italy on a Schengen visa, in some cases you may apply at the local Questura before your authorised stay expires. Requires the same documents.
Processing Time & Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Consulate application fee | ~$30–80 USD (varies by country) |
| Criminal record apostille | $30–150 (depends on home country) |
| Health insurance (min. 12 months) | $400–800/year (SafetyWing, for example) |
| Permesso di Soggiorno fee (in Italy) | ~€100 |
| Total estimated cost | $650–1,200 depending on country |
After You Arrive
Within 8 days of arrival, you must register with the local Questura to receive your Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit). Bring your passport, visa, proof of Italian address, proof of income and passport photos. You can begin the application at any Ufficio Postale (post office) using kit mod. 209.
Renewing the Visa
Apply for renewal 60–90 days before your first year expires at your local Questura. You'll need updated proof of income, valid health insurance and your current Permesso di Soggiorno. The renewal costs approximately €100–200 and grants another 12 months. Maximum total stay on this visa is 24 months.