After two years of crisis and uncertainty, many countries have reopened their borders and started welcoming visitors and expatriates. Since remote working has become the new norm in pandemic times, governments are considering making entry more flexible for digital nomads. Italy has also announced the introduction of a digital nomad visa to attract foreigners.Â
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many upheavals worldwide with lockdowns, border closures, health restrictions in public places, etc. This complicated things for many sectors that could no longer operate. However, many companies successfully introduced or reinforced remote work to maintain their operations.
Who is eligible for the digital nomad visa?
The Schengen visa makes it easy for European nationals to stay in a European country for up to 90 days, but this is not the case for non-Europeans. Moreover, short term visas do not allow foreigners to visit the country and take up a job at a time.
Today, more and more European countries are introducing the digital nomad to attract foreign professionals from around the globe. This visa is mainly intended for highly skilled candidates in the digital field, such as web programmers, digital marketers, bloggers, copywriters, translators, and many more.
To be eligible, candidates must generally prove that they are freelance workers or working remotely for an employer outside the country. They might also need to present a clean criminal record while proof of health insurance is compulsory.
Luca Carabetta, Member of the Italian Parliament from the Five Star Movement Party, recently informed the local media that the requirements would also depend on other factors such as the availability of suitable accommodation and sufficient financial resources to cover your living expenses. However, the required amount has not been fixed yet.
So if you're interested in this digital nomad visa, make sure to inquire about all those requirements before applying.
When will the digital nomad visa be available?
The Ministries of the Interior, Foreign Affairs, Labor and Tourism are still in consultation on a few points before the entry into force of this visa. But these should be sorted out within a month. Conditions for issuance for eligible remote workers, the minimum income thresholds, and the procedures for monitoring activities and renewal are still being discussed. But that doesn't mean you cannot start planning your trip to Italy. For many years, Italy has been an attractive destination for its pleasant climate, serene atmosphere, the quality of life, without forgetting the delicious Italian cuisine.
What does it mean to be a digital nomad?
Remote working has made it possible for many workers around the world to pursue their dreams of travel while earning their living location-free. All they need is a laptop or computer and an Internet connection. Digital nomadism is an increasingly popular trend, especially with the pandemic and its complexity.
Several countries have already introduced long-term visas and permits for visitors, providing a legal framework for anyone who wishes to extend their stay. Italy is the latest country to have joined the club.
What are the benefits of the digital nomad visa?
One of the best things about Italy is the Dolce Vita, inspired by the warm climate. Add to this the rich historical and cultural heritage along with beautiful landscapes. If you'd like to benefit from all this, the digital nomad visa will allow you to settle and work anywhere without needing a residence permit. While the tourist visa is valid for 90 days, the digital nomad visa is valid for a whole year and is renewable. So it gives you plenty of time to consider whether you would like to extend your stay or settle down in the country. Besides, your dependents -- your spouse and children -- can accompany you.
Taxation is another major benefit for digital nomads in Italy. Reforms were introduced in January 2020 to attract foreigners that have been discouraged by the crisis. For the self-employed, there is a flat-rate scheme -- 5% for the first 5 years on a percentage of gross billing (generally 78%) if gross income does not exceed 65,000 euros/year. Employees and the self-employed benefit from the expat tax regime, which means a 70% tax exemption on all their income generated in the country. Italy has also signed non-double taxation treaties with many countries. You can benefit from this if you're staying for more than 183 days per year.
Furthermore, to attract digital nomads, the Italian government plans on investing 1 billion euros in rural areas where the tax exemption will be up to 90%. Some 2000 ghost villages will be refurbished with modern facilities to enhance internet connectivity. Only 75% of families across Italy currently have access to it.
