Italy introduces digital nomad visa for remote workers

NEW DELHI: Italy has introduced a new visa for digital nomads, allowing remote workers the opportunity to work and travel in the country. This visa, effective as of 4 April, permits non-EU passport holders to stay and work long-term in Italy.
The visa requires applicants to be ‘highly skilled’ remote workers, defined as those who can work remotely using advanced technological tools.Applicants must earn a minimum annual salary of €28,000, have a college degree or professional license, and demonstrate six months of relevant work experience.
Additionally, they need to show proof of lodging in Italy and healthcare coverage. Family members can also apply, subject to approval from local authorities. The permit, valid for one year and renewable annually, is specifically for those capable of working remotely from Italy.
The final decision on family permits lies with Italy’s police headquarters. Italy’s move to introduce this visa aims to attract high-income foreign workers. Japan, for instance, offers visas to digital nomads earning over $63,000 annually. The goal is to boost economic development by enticing skilled professionals to work and reside in these countries.