From information received from unofficial sources, the Ministries of the Interior, Foreign Affairs, Tourism, and Labour have finally signed the implementing decree for the digital nomad visa.
A “digital nomad” is defined as a non-EU citizen who performs highly skilled remote work in Italy, either as a freelancer or as an employee/collaborator of a company, which can also be based outside Italy. The visa is exempt from the “quota” limits, and it is not necessary to apply for a work permit (nulla osta) for entry as a digital nomad (professional or freelancer), or as a remote worker (employee or collaborator of a company).
For the visa application, it is necessary to submit a declaration signed by the employer and a self-certification where the worker must attest to the absence of criminal convictions.
Once the visa is issued, the holder shall travel to Italy and apply for the residence permit within eight working days of entry. The worker will be issued a permit as a “digital nomad – remote worker” valid for one year, renewable each year if the conditions and requirements are met. Digital nomad/remote workers will be entitled to bring core family members (spouse and children under 18, parents under certain conditions).
Social security coverage: where bilateral agreements on social security between Italy and the country of origin exist, these agreements will apply. In the absence of such agreements, Italian social security and insurance coverage regulations will apply.
Digital nomads and remote workers will be provided with a tax code upon residence permit issuance. Digital nomads can request a VAT number from the Revenue Agency, which is informed about the visa issuance from police authorities.
Refusal of the visa: The visa may be refused/revoked if the employer or contractor has been convicted in the last five years. The residence permit already issued may be revoked when the worker or the company fails to comply with tax and contributory obligations.
Further details will be issued as soon as the implementing decree is available.
Giuditta Petreni has over 10 years of experience in assisting companies and business investors with relocation of managers and staff to Italy. Giuditta has extensive experience advising corporate and private clients on a full range of Italian immigration categories. She is fluent in Italian and English.
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