Italian Visa Types Explained
Digital Nomad/Remote Worker Visa
For freelancers, consultants, specialists, and fully remote employees.
•Valid for one year and renewable
•Not subject to “Decreto Flussi” (Flow Decree) limits.
•Does not require government security clearance (nulla osta).
Digital Nomad requirements:
•3-year university degree OR 5 years specialized experience OR 3 years IT/communications experience
•€28,000 up to €34,000 yearly salary.
•Health insurance and suitable accommodation in Italy
•At least six months of relevant work experience
Remote Worker requirements:
•Work contract or binding job offer
•At least €34,000 yearly salary
•Employer must confirm no immigration-related convictions in the previous five years.
Go to our specialized visa support page >
Investor Visa (Golden Visa)
For individuals contributing to Italy’s economy.
Investment options:
•€250,000 in an innovative startup
•€500,000 in a Limited Liability Company
•€2,000,000 in government bonds
•€1,000,000 philanthropic donation
Requirements:
•Proof of legal origin of funds
•Maintaining the investment for the duration of the visa.
•Valid for two years and renewable
It is not subject to the “Decreto Flussi” (Flow Decree) and does not require a minimum stay in Italy.
For individuals contributing to Italy’s economy.
Investment options:
•€250,000 in an innovative startup
•€500,000 in a Limited Liability Company
•€2,000,000 in government bonds
•€1,000,000 philanthropic donation
Requirements:
•Proof of legal origin of funds
•Maintaining the investment for the duration of the visa.
•Valid for two years and renewable
It is not subject to the “Decreto Flussi” (Flow Decree) and does not require a minimum stay in Italy.
Go to our specialized visa support page >
Elective Residency Visa
For financially independent individuals relocating to Italy.
Requirements:
• ERV holders are legally prohibited from performing any work or professional activity in Italy and must therefore show the following financial “passive” income:
-€31,000 per year (individual)
-€38,000 per year (married couple)
-+20% per additional family member
•Valid for one year and renewable.
The Italian Elective Residence Visa is not regulated or limited by the Flow Decree (Decreto Flussi).
Go to our specialized visa support page >
Self-Employment Visa
• Regulated by an yearly Decreto Flussi cap (only 650 slots available each year).
• Valid for two years and renewable until permanent residency.
Requirements
•You must be either an entrepreneur, freelancer, company officer, artist, or startup founder) and must have security clearance (nulla osta) from the Italian government before you can apply for the visa.
•For Statups, at least €21,303.36 cash capital to launch your business.
•For freelancers, income of at least €8,500.
•1-year lease agreement or property deed.
Work Visa
Work Visa
For Americans with a job offer from an Italian company.
•Valid for the length of the work contract (up to two years).
•Renewable up to five years.
•Employer must obtain a work permit (Nulla Osta).
This visa is subject to annual entry quotas set out by the “Decreto Flussi” (Flow Decree).
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified professionals.
•Must have a Bachelor’s degree
•Job offer of at least 12 months
•Valid for contract duration (two years if indefinite contract)
•At least €27,000 yearly income
•Employer must attain a government security clearance (nulla osta).
Visa categories, requirements, and annual quotas are established by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and implemented by individual Italian consulates. Since financial thresholds, requirements and guidelines may change, always check with the relevant Italian consulate before applying.
Refs.: Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Visa for Italy Italian Consulate Directory (U.S.)
Go to our specialized visa support page >