Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa
Highly skilled non-EU remote workers and freelancers working for non-Italian clients or employers from Italy.
The Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa is a Italian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa is for
Highly skilled non-EU remote workers and freelancers working for non-Italian clients or employers from Italy.
Renewable yearly and counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years.
Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa - eligibility criteria
- Annual income of at least ~€28,000
- University degree or recognised professional qualification
- At least 6 months of remote work experience
- Health insurance valid in Italy/Schengen (≥ €30,000)
- Proof of accommodation in Italy
Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa (Italy) is ~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Italy Visa Portal.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At an Italian consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year, renewable |
| Work rights | Remote work for foreign employers/clients (highly skilled) |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside work |
| Government fee | ~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | Renewable yearly and counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years. |
Pathway & next steps
Renewable yearly and counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years.
Many applicants also compare Lavoro Autonomo · Self-Employment Visa (lavoro autonomo), Elective Residence · Elective Residence Visa (Residenza Elettiva), Blue Card · EU Blue Card (Carta Blu UE). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Italian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa pitfalls we fix
Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa cost?
The Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa government fee is ~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Italy Visa Portal before applying.
How long does the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa lead to permanent residence?
Renewable yearly and counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years.
Can I work on the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa?
Work rights: Remote work for foreign employers/clients (highly skilled).
Who can apply for the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa?
Highly skilled non-EU remote workers and freelancers working for non-Italian clients or employers from Italy.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Italy government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Italy Visa Portal - official Italy immigration authority