Italy is Now Open for Digital Nomads
After a few months of speculation. Italy has finally approved the “digital nomad visa” for expatriates who want to move to Italy and work remotely. The law was recently signed in the country is going to allow more remote workers from outside the European Union.
Italy for Digital Nomads
As you know, the Covid pandemic has definitely caused changes in the work culture and some of those are here to stay. The hybrid functioning of organizations is one such thing that not only allows organizations to cut costs but also allows employees to have the advantage of working in a flexible manner.
Remote working is fast gaining ground and in such circumstances and influenced by other EU nations, Italy has made a provision for remote workers by extending a digital nomad visa. Well, who wouldn’t want to work in a country full of flavors, natural treasures, and an amazing culture? Down below is everything one would need to know to be able to move to Italy as a digital nomad, so keep reading!
When will the digital nomad’s visa phase in?
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will soon clarify the application process, procedures, and details. However, this could also mean that digital nomads have to wait for a couple of months before they get to set their foot in Italy. Note that it will take some time until the Italian government publishes full details of the visa application process and requirements for expatriates. These things never move quickly.
Who can apply for a digital nomad visa?
Italy’s digital nomad visa opens doors to not only the European Union but also for the highly qualified remote workers and freelancers from Britain, Canada, and America. According to the Italian Financial Paper-II Sole 24 Ore, a highly qualified worker can be anyone and from any profession, including circus workers and professional nurses. With several others in the European Union like Germany, healthcare system in Malta, Croatia, healthcare system in Portugal, Estonia, and Norway, promoting diversity in the economy, the Italian government has finally taken the initiative to welcome individuals keen on living and working in the country.
While European Union citizens are free to migrate to Italy. Anyone outside of the EU must obtain a visa and work permit to be able to stay in the country. The Italian government has decided on having a no-cap rule for the number of permits issued in a year. It has been shown that the digital nomad visa will last for a year and can be broadened to include close family members. Another thing that has unfolded is the setting of minimum income requirements, however, the benchmark is not yet decided. Other requirements for one to clear the digital nomad visa criteria are to have suitable accommodation, global health insurance, a decent income, and a clean criminal record.
Other Visas for Remote Workers
While the digital nomad visa is yet to make remote workers board the flight to Italy, however, to enjoy the fresh ambiance and air of the country one can make use of other types of visas too. Many employers in North America and the UK are now OK with having their employees work remotely, especially in the high-tech field.
Self Employment Visa for Digital Nomads in Italy
Most non-EU remote workers, when wanting to relocate, apply for the Self-Employment Visa. Note that very few of these visas are approved. Adding to this are additional obstacles like getting authentication from the relevant professional body. On successful approval, expats can enjoy up to 2 years of stay in Italy.
Intra Company Visa
The Intra-Company Visa basically requires the organization to set up a small branch for their remote workers in Italy. Good thing is that there are no restrictions based on the organization size. However, what might be of concern is the amount of money that the company has to shelve for their employees to gain a visa. Lasting for about 5 years, the Intra-Company visa demands the organization to invest an initial amount of €20,000 and pay taxes. A single employee request might be a deal-breaker here. So it’s better to test the convincing prowess of a group of employees willing to relocate to Italy.
EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is for people hired by Italian companies. However, there is a list of criteria one needs to fulfill before securing the Blue Card. For instance, highly educated non-EU nationals need to have a salary of €24,789.93 and a 3-year university degree, in order to obtain a Blue Card. Apart from this, the company needs to have at least €50,000 and prove that they can employ a foreigner.
Once made, the card makes it easier for individuals to travel around the EU. In the beginning, one can only work from the country where the organization is headquartered. But when relocating from another EU country to work for an Italian company, individuals can apply for the Blue Card after staying for 18 months in that country and post a month of arrival in Italy.
So is Now the Time to Become a Digital Nomad in Italy?
The short answer is of course yes! Who wouldn’t want to be a digital nomad in such a beautiful country, while almost every route is filled with struggles and obstacles, what one can make sure of by obtaining a Global Health Coverage is that health doesn’t suffer? So, in the meantime when information about the permit is announced, consider applying for international health insurance coverage from a respected source, and do not forget to regularly check our blog. To know about healthcare system in Italy check out our healthcare region page.