On 13 April, Travel & Tour World highlighted how Italy has entrenched its Digital-Nomad Visa in Article 27-quater of the Immigration Code via a joint ministerial decree, positioning the country alongside Spain, Malta and Portugal in the 2026 race for location-independent talent. Although Italy first announced the visa in 2022, the new decree clarifies governance, creates a dedicated consular channel and aligns income-threshold calculations with INPS social-security schedules. Applicants must show an annual income of at least €28,000, comprehensive health insurance and a remote-work contract with clients outside Italy. Family members may join and can file for a residence permit within 12 months of arrival. The permit is renewable and offers a pathway to the EU Long-Term Residence status after five years. The tightening of Portugal’s tax perks and Malta’s higher income bar means Italy suddenly looks more competitive, especially for mid-career professionals in the tech and creative sectors who value the country’s transport links and comparatively low living costs in second-tier cities. Companies using a ‘work-from-anywhere’ policy should note that holders are exempt from Italy’s labour-market quotas but must register with the local municipality within eight days of entry. Payroll teams also need to monitor potential permanent-establishment risks when nomads work on Italian soil for extended periods. Regional authorities, led by Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, are drafting incentive packages — including co-working vouchers and language courses — to attract nomads beyond Rome and Milan, signalling a new front in Italy’s talent-attraction strategy.
Source: Travel & Tour World
