The Italian Self-employed Visa is similar to the Digital Nomad Visa – they both enable “highly qualified” foreigner remote workers and freelancers who work outside of the EU to relocate to the Italy and legally work there.
Although the Nomad Visa requirements are still unclear as the program is yet to come into full effect, it can be deduced that its requirements are similar to those of the Self-employed Visa. Namely that qualifying self-employed individuals must meet the minimum income requirement set by the Italian government, hold a clean criminal record, and have a comprehensive health insurance plan as well.
Those who are eligible for the Self-employed Visa are issued a renewable permit with an initial one-year validity. Once it’s up, they may be capable of renewing it provided that they continue to abide by the program’s requirements. After the fifth year of residency, they may receive their permanent residence permit. Additionally, individuals are capable of including their immediate family members in their applications for residency.
It is important to note that digital nomads will have to pay Italy Digital Nomad Visa taxes or self-employment taxes when they relocate to the nation, and comply with social security provisions as well. Although tax residents in Italy would normally have to pay a large tax rate on their annual worldwide income, foreign professionals and remote workers who relocate to Italy through the Self-employed Visa will only have to pay taxes on five percent of their annual income. Moreover, foreign workers who acquire the new Digital Nomad Visa will enjoy a 70 percent tax reduction on their global income if they register their residency in Italy.
Eligibility requirements for the Self-employed Visa in Italy
Digital nomads who want to apply for the Self-employed Visa in Italy will have to ensure they meet the following requirements before they can acquire a residence permit:
- Be a non-EU or non-EEA national
- Hold a clean criminal record
- Show proof of suitable accommodation in an Italian state
- Have an annual gross income of at least €8,500 that was earned one year prior to their visa application, or is promised by a contractual compensation for services provided to Italian clients or an Italian company
- Have health insurance to cover their hospitalization or medical expenses in Italy for the first 30 days of their entry
- Demonstrate a certificate of ‘no impediment’ for them to provide their freelance services and highly qualified work activities in Italy
- Show proof of sufficient economic funds to maintain their stay and perform their services
If you’re considering relocating to Italy and working remotely from there as a digital nomad without having to pay taxes twice, there’s no need for you to wait until the start of next year to do that. The Self-employed Visa can be used in place of the Italian Digital Nomad Visa, and its benefits are truly unmatched – whether it’s the advantage of double taxation treaties and other tax exemptions, access to better healthcare, or otherwise.
By applying for the Self-employed Visa in Italy, you’ll have the right to reside and work remotely in one of the most beautiful European countries without being considered a tax resident there. You’ll also be able to travel across the rest of the European Union visa-free within just two months of your application being submitted and approved. Moreover, you can include your close family members in your application, and enjoy the benefit of family reunification. All of which will make remote work a lot more convenient for you.
Application process
While the requirements and application process of the new visa are still unclear, foreign workers who are interested in performing their work remotely from Italy through the Self-employed Visa can expect to go through the following process before obtaining their new permit:
1. Fill out the application form
Those who are looking to work remotely as digital nomads in Italy before the start of next year will need to complete an application form for the Self-employed Visa, carefully following its instructions.
2. Set an appointment with an Italian Consulate or Embassy in your home country
To apply for either visa, you’ll have to locate a visa office in your home country to set an appointment with the relevant Italian authorities. Your appointment can either be at an Italian Embassy or an Italian Consulate, where you’ll be submitting your application and biometric data, and attending an interview as well.
3. Prepare your documents
After you have completed your application and scheduled your appointment, you will need to prepare the necessary documents that you have to present. You may need to have some documents translated and certified with an Apostille stamp.
4. Submit your application
Once you have all your documents prepared and submitted, you will need to attend an interview and pay the visa fee. Do note that some countries may ask you to pay the fee prior to your appointment. In that case, you will need to show the receipt of payment as part of your application documents.