Working from Italy as a Digital Nomad
A digital nomad is an individual who chooses to work remotely, many times in other countries. Some of the most common fields in which digital nomads seek employment include content creation, consulting, and the tech industry. Italy is one of the most ideal destinations for digital nomads to locate.
Residing there allows you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural vibrancy of the Mediterranean while maintaining employment.
By becoming a digital nomad, you open your world up to the possibilities of working abroad while still enjoying a satisfying career in the field of your choice. While there are limited positions that allow this to be a possibility, if you are able to work out all of the kinks and pursue the occupation, you definitely should.
What Do You Need To Be A Digital Nomad in Italy?
Before covering what you may need to be a digital nomad in Italy, it’s important to explain what it means to be a digital nomad.
A digital nomad mainly works while living a “nomadic” lifestyle. They look at traveling as a way of life and do not follow a set routine. They may frequently move and often work outside of a traditional office setting. Digital nomads can be remote workers and are often, but not limited to, being freelancers. As long as they continue to travel while maintaining employment, they are considered digital nomads.
To become a digital nomad in Italy, ideally you should first apply for an Italian Digital Nomad Visa. This visa program was launched in 2022 in an effort to welcome more people into their country. This visa carries special rights, including the opportunity to reside with your family in Italy, access to the social security system in Italy, and the ability to obtain a tax code and open up a bank account. This visa is also eligible for renewal after a year.
Things To Consider Before Packing Your Bags
To qualify for the Italian Digital Nomad Visa, you must first provide evidence of your freelance work with clients or a company located outside of the country. Some examples of eligible documentation include contracts, invoices, employment records, or other documents showing that you have a steady line of income. That, along with the paper record you provide of reasoning to be in the foreign country for an extended period of time.
You must also prove that you have comprehensive health insurance coverage that will be valid for the duration of your stay. You may be required to provide additional documentation depending on your specific health circumstances.
You may want to consult the Italian embassy in your country first for a complete list of requirements. If you have current health insurance with your employer in your country, you will need to evaluate your plan. This will assure if your health insurance will cover you internationally. If it does not you may have to add-on to your current plan or acquire a new one altogether.
Italy's Digital Nomad Visa - Applying for it
There are several documents you need to have on hand when preparing to apply for the Italian Digital Nomad Visa:
- Proof of remote work – This proof can include freelance agreements, employment contracts or other relevant documentation. You will of course need to provide your employer’s information.
Clean criminal record – You’ll need a recent background check showing you have a clean criminal record. This can take some turnover time to get results so please make sure to have this done if there is a deadline needed to travel.
Health insurance – You must retain comprehensive health insurance that is valid for the duration of your stay in Italy. This insurance must cover all of your medical expenses, including hospitalization and repatriation. Sometimes this can be covered by travel insurance plans as well. Just make sure to evaluate all of your options.
Proof of accommodation – You must provide some proof of accommodation in Italy, such as a hotel reservation, a letter of invitation from a host or a rental agreement. There are some housing programs that can also give you written documentation for a prolonged stay.
Valid passport – Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your stay in Italy. Most passports stay valid for 7-10 years after they are initially printed.
Proof of income – A stable income is required for this visa and can include invoices, bank statements, and tax returns indicating you have the required income to qualify.
Application form – The official visa application form is located on the website of the Italian embassy in your country of origin.
Some people may be asked to provide additional documentation or information depending on their work circumstances. For most people, the visa-issuing process may take between 30 to 90 days.
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Being a Digital Nomad in Italy - The upside
Known for its delicious and hearty cuisine, breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage, it’s not hard to see why Italy is considered a top destination for digital nomads. Italy is an excellent destination if you’re looking for an opportunity to experience cultural immersion, culinary decadence and a wonderful work-life balance. Some of the primary reasons so many digital nomads flock to Italy include:
- Partaking in world-famous Italian food and wine.
- Unique traveling opportunities and beautiful scenery.
- Fast and reliable internet connection.
In addition, Italy’s central location within the Mediterranean region makes it the perfect launch-off spot for adventurous travel throughout Europe and beyond. Italy’s railway and ferry systems are renowned for being fast and reliable, so it’s easy to get to wherever you’d like to go.
One of the best things about being a digital nomad in Italy is that you’ll experience personal growth through exposure to new cultures, experiences and people. As a digital nomad, you’ll be free to work anywhere you’d like and choose how you’d like to spend your off time, whether it’s sightseeing in Rome, enjoying a wine tour in Tuscany or shopping in Milan.
Things You Can Do While Living in Italy
There is no shortage of activities and places to explore while living in Italy. Whether you’re in the mood to explore the bustling cities and enjoy unique shopping excursions in Milan or take in the serene landscapes throughout Cinque Terre, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful country. Here are a few “must-see” areas to explore throughout Italy.
1. The Italian Rivera
Located in Northern Italy, you can explore the charming seaside villages while immersing yourself in its cultural heritage. Be sure to check out Cinque Terre, which includes five beautiful villages known for their colorful houses and spectacular views along the Ligurian Sea.
2. Milan
Milan is the economic heart of Northern Italy and is well known for its stunning architecture, world-class shopping experiences and vibrant art scene. This city is a global hub for design, fashion and finance and is fascinating to explore. It is highly-rated amongst some of the top international cities in the world.
3. Rome
Also known as the "Eternal City," Rome possesses rich historical significance and is a must-visit destination for any digital nomad in Italy. From the Colosseum to the Roman Forum and beyond, you can catch a glimpse into the spectacular grandeur and wonder of ancient civilizations. It is a definite choice of history lovers and those that enjoy learning in general
4. Tuscany
If you're in the mood for rolling hills and picturesque Renaissance towns, the region of Tuscany offers a feast for the senses. Be sure to check out Pisa and its iconic Leaning Tower and San Gimignano for its well-preserved tower houses and medieval architecture.
5. Florence
Florence - Located in Central Italy, Florence serves as the capital city of Tuscany and offers world-class museums and architectural marvels. Climb the sprawling dome of the Florence Cathedral for a truly breathtaking view of Florence. The Uffizi Gallery is also located in Florence and is widely regarded as one of the most important art museums in the world.
6. Sicilly
Sicily features a rich tapestry of cultures heavily influenced by Roman, Greek, Norman and Arab civilizations. It is also the biggest island in the Mediterranean. Wander around the Vucciria Market, where you can sample local cuisine, fresh produce and seafood or explore the Palermo Cathedral, which houses the royal tombs of Norman kings.
Working Remotely and Making the Most out of Your Time in Italy
Living in Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should pursue if they’re able. Although you should dedicate plenty of time to your professional endeavors, it’s important to take frequent breaks to enjoy everything the region has to offer. Many digital nomads feel overwhelmed when settling into a new place. With so many points of interest, knowing how to start exploring the area is a real challenge for many. In these situations, scheduling private tours throughout your stay in Italy is an ideal solution. Sometimes they can provide you the right connection to not only things tourists love, but also a more local insight to unique and interesting events going on.
Private tours allow you to explore the areas you choose to visit and are completely customizable based on your interests and preferences. Not only can you move at your own pace and see the sites that are most important to you, but you can also access some hidden gems you may not have otherwise known about. In addition, you can receive deeper insights into the local regions and culture while avoiding tourist traps and large crowds.
Private tours are led by knowledgeable and friendly local guides who can help you feel more immersed in your surroundings. With a private tour, you can decide to spend time perusing the museums and art galleries, explore architectural and historical sites or make time for a little bit of everything. If you find a particular area interesting, you can change your plans on the fly and take extra time there. This is also an advantage of being a digital nomad here, as you have extra flexibility some visiting briefly may not have at their disposal. The personalized attention you receive from your private tour guide means you are free to ask as many questions as you’d like and enjoy meaningful interactions and quality experiences throughout your excursion.
Making Your Workload Lighter in Italy
The best thing about being a digital nomad in Italy is that the culture emphasizes a healthy work-life balance. However, it’s common to still experience work-related stress. Here are some helpful tips to help you maintain a good work-life balance during your stay in Italy.
- Be sure to take frequent breaks throughout your work day. For example, you can schedule a short 15-minute break every two hours to recharge and avoid burnout.
Make good use of your leisure time and explore everything the area has to offer. Immerse yourself in the culture, regularly visit a few points of interest and pencil in time to exercise.
Avoid overburdening yourself by practicing good time management. This way, you won’t have too many uncompleted tasks towards the end of your workweek.
If your workload is becoming unmanageable, take a little time off to relax or work fewer hours while still maintaining your visa-required work quota.
Make sure to prioritize your mental health and reach out for help if you need it.
If you would still like to see the foreign country while also working, simply make not of coffee shops or digital outposts you can go to that has amazing computer connection.
Residing and working in Italy as a digital nomad is an amazing opportunity, but you should still consider the pros and cons and whether this lifestyle suits you before committing. However, if you’re ready for the challenge and are drawn to the freedom and adventure of being a digital nomad, Italy is the perfect destination to begin this exciting new chapter in your life.
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🧳 Travel Insurance
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💰Travel Finances
Get your travel finances smart and straight with Wise or Revolut.
🏨 Accommodations
For a short stay check out Booking or Agoda. Staying longer? Take a look at the offers at Airbnb. Hostels are the cheapest option that you can explore at Hostelworld.
🏡 Recommended places for long-term stay
Wanna know the accommodations where we lived during our digital nomad journey? Check out the places we enjoyed the most!
🎫 Book tours
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🚗 Rent a car
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