Italy recently launched a new digital nomad visa that allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to a year. Chelsea Waite, an American entrepreneur who had been working remotely since 2020, was one of the first to successfully obtain this visa and is currently living in Milan. Due to the newness of the visa, there is limited information available to help navigate the application process. Chelsea emphasizes the importance of being prepared and persistent, as well as seeking help from local resources to overcome hurdles such as obtaining a rental contract and having qualifications certified.
One of the key challenges in applying for Italy’s digital nomad visa is the requirement of a rental contract, which typically necessitates an Italian tax code called ‘codice fiscale.’ Chelsea found a way to register a contract without this code through her real estate agent’s guidance. Additionally, the visa is specifically aimed at highly skilled workers earning at least €28,000 per year, and qualifications need to be verified through the Information Centre on Academic Mobility and Equivalence (CIMEA). Chelsea stresses the importance of understanding and meeting these nuanced requirements to avoid delays in the application process.
Chelsea offers three main tips for those considering applying for Italy’s digital nomad visa. First, she recommends being overprepared rather than underprepared, to avoid having to restart the process due to missing documentation. Second, she suggests seeking help within Italy for critical aspects like finding accommodation and forming relationships with locals. Lastly, Chelsea advises applicants to stay flexible and financially prepared, as there are additional costs to consider such as deposits, health insurance, document verification fees, and the visa application fee of €116 per person. She highlights the importance of anticipating and budgeting for these expenses.
Given the limited information available on how to apply for Italy’s digital nomad visa, Chelsea is working on a guide to help others navigate the process. Her personal experience and insights can offer valuable guidance to future applicants looking to take advantage of this new opportunity. Chelsea’s journey exemplifies the perseverance, preparation, and resourcefulness required to successfully secure the digital nomad visa, demonstrating that with the right approach and support, remote workers can make Italy their temporary home.
