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Long-stay visas (Type D)

Italian Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa

A long-stay route for highly qualified non-EU nationals doing remote work in Italy, whether as freelancers or for a non-Italian employer, granted outside the Flows Decree quota.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

Under review — check current rules

Digital nomad/remote worker minimum income and health-insurance coverage figures vary by consular guidance and are periodically updated; commonly cited figures (~€24,789–€28,000/year income; €30,000 insurance cover) were seen in secondary sources and should be verified against the official portal before publication.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Italy government website before you apply.
On this page
Visa type
National long-stay (Type D)
Quota
Outside the Decreto Flussi quota
For whom
Highly qualified freelancers or remote employees of a non-Italian company
Experience
Proof of prior remote-work / freelance experience (around 6 months) generally required
Income & insurance
Minimum annual income and health insurance required (figures set by decree/consular guidance)
Exact income and insurance figures change — verify current thresholds

Who it's for

Non-EU nationals classed as highly qualified who perform remote work — as freelancers or for an employer outside Italy — and can support themselves from that work while living in Italy.

Requirements

  • Highly qualified status (qualification or professional experience)
  • Remote work as a freelancer or for a non-Italian employer
  • Minimum annual income from the remote work (verify current threshold)
  • Proof of prior remote-work / freelance experience
  • Health insurance valid in Italy
  • Proof of accommodation in Italy

What you can do

  • Live in Italy while working remotely for clients or an employer abroad
  • Obtain and renew a residence permit tied to the remote activity
  • Bring family members subject to conditions
  • Travel within the Schengen area on the residence permit

How to apply

Confirm the current requirements on the official visa portal and book an appointment via prenotami.esteri.it.

Apply for the Type D digital-nomad/remote-worker visa at the competent Italian consulate with proof of qualification, income, experience, insurance and accommodation.

After entering Italy, apply for the corresponding residence permit within the required period.

Documents

  • Completed national visa application form and valid passport
  • Proof of highly qualified status (degree or professional experience)
  • Evidence of remote work: freelance contracts or employment with a non-Italian company
  • Proof of income and of prior remote-work experience
  • Health insurance policy valid in Italy
  • Proof of accommodation in Italy

Frequently asked questions

  • No. This route is for remote work performed for a non-Italian employer or as a freelancer serving clients; local Italian employment uses the standard work routes instead.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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