Italy Self-Employment Visa

Nov 22, 2018

The type and number of self-employment (Lavoro Autonomo) authorizations available to non-EU nationals are set by means of the quota decree (decreto-flussi).


The type and number of self-employment (Lavoro Autonomo) authorizations available to non-EU nationals are set by means of the quota decree (decreto-flussi). Not all self-employment categories are available each year.

General eligibility requirements are:

  • have suitable accommodation in Italy;
  • have financial resources exceeding the minimum level set by the law for the exemption from healthcare contribution (8.500 Euro);
  • obtain a Police Clearance (Nulla Osta) in Italy;
  • have certificates, documents, attestations as required for the type of self-employment activity to be performed (applicants must meet the legal requirements for the performance of the activity in question, including, when required, the prerequisites for entering into professional registers)

Self-employment categories including (but not limited to):

Self-employment visa for officers of an existing Italian company

Foreign nationals appointed as officers (Chairman, C. E. O., Member the of the board of directors, Auditor) of Italian companies (Srl, Spa) in activity since at least 3 years can apply for a self-employment visa. The foreign national will have to provide evidence of being appointed as an officer and of receiving a compensation from the Italian company. Also, it is important that the Italian company can prove to have financial stability and turn over.

Self-employment visa for entrepreneurs of an Italian Startup

The “start-up visa” is aimed to non-EU nationals intending to set up an innovative start-up business or to join an already established startup company.
Read more → Italy Start-up Visa 

Self-employment visa for freelancers

This visa can be applied for by individuals who are freelance and do not have a company which wants to hire them or sponsors their work permit. The issuance of the visa is subject to Italy’s quota-system, fixed annually and not all self-employment categories are available each year. According to our experience, it is extremely difficult, despite the availability of quotas, to obtain the issuance of a self-employment work visa. Most Consulates have a very restrictive policy and are very cautious before issuing a visa to an applicant who cannot guarantee to have a stable occupation and substantial remuneration in the country. Despite obtaining the necessary clearances in Italy, we see that many applications are rejected by Consulates on various grounds.

We can assist clients with every step of the process, from the Police Clearance (Nulla Osta) until the collection of the residence permit. Contact us for a free quote, we would be delighted to help you reach your targets and goals.

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