The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Visas in Turkey and Italy
June 14, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Visas in Turkey and Italy
In recent years, the concept of digital nomadism — working remotely while traveling the world — has gained immense popularity. For those who dream of living and working in culturally rich and scenic countries, Turkey and Italy are becoming top destinations. Both countries have introduced digital nomad visas to cater to this growing community of remote workers. This comprehensive guide will delve into the details of these visas, helping you decide which might be right for your lifestyle and work.
Introduction to Digital Nomad Visas
A digital nomad visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to live in a foreign country while continuing to work for clients or companies that are based outside of the country. These visas are perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees with flexible work arrangements looking to explore new cultures without sacrificing their careers.
Turkey’s Digital Nomad Visa: An Overview
Turkey introduced its digital nomad visa to attract remote workers with the promise of living in a country that bridges Asia and Europe, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Turkey’s digital nomad visa, applicants must:
Prove that they work remotely for non-Turkish companies.
Show evidence of sufficient monthly income to support themselves during their stay. $3,000 UYSD monthly and $36,000 annually
Be between the ages of 21 and 55
Passport or a travel document that is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Turkey
Have valid health insurance that covers their stay in Turkey.
Application Process
The application process for a Turkish digital nomad visa involves:
Completing an online application form.
Submitting necessary documents, including proof of employment, income, and insurance.
Attending an interview at a Turkish consulate or embassy, if required.
Benefits
The Turkish digital nomad visa offers several advantages:
It allows stays of up to one year, with the possibility of renewal.
It provides an opportunity to explore Turkey’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Applicants can enjoy relatively low living costs compared to many Western countries.
Challenges
However, potential challenges include:
Navigating the bureaucratic process, which can sometimes be complex and time-consuming.
The need for all documentation to be translated into Turkish, which can add to the application time and cost.
More on Turkeys Digital Nomad Visa and living in Turkey:
Italy’s digital nomad visa is part of its broader strategy to attract skilled foreigners to live and work in one of Europe's most historically and culturally significant countries.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for Italy’s digital nomad visa must:
Prove they can perform their work remotely using digital tools
Demonstrate a stable and high enough income to support themselves — typically around €2,700 per month
Having savings of €30,000 or more
Remote work for at least the past 6 months
Purchased or rented property in Italy
Have comprehensive health insurance that covers their stay in Italy
No criminal record
Application Process
To apply for the Italian digital nomad visa, one must:
Fill out an application form available from the Italian visa website or at a consulate.
Gather required documents, including proof of income, employment, and insurance.
Schedule and attend a visa interview at an Italian consulate or embassy.
Benefits
The benefits of the Italian digital nomad visa include:
The chance to live in Italy for up to one year with the option to apply for an extension.
Access to Italy’s renowned food, art, and lifestyle.
The possibility to travel freely within the Schengen Area.
Challenges
On the downside:
The cost of living in Italy can be high, especially in popular cities like Rome and Milan.
The Italian bureaucracy can be daunting, and the process might be slower compared to other countries.
All info for an Italian Digital Nomad Visa can be found here:
When deciding between Turkey and Italy’s digital nomad visas, consider the following factors:
Cost of Living: Turkey generally offers a lower cost of living than Italy, which might be crucial for long-term sustainability.
Cultural Offerings: While both countries are rich in culture, your personal preference for Italian or Turkish history, cuisine, and landscape might sway your decision.
Ease of Process: Both countries have bureaucratic hurdles, but Turkey's process may be simpler and quicker than Italy's, depending on your circumstances.
Practical Tips for Applicants
Document Preparation: Ensure all your documents are in order, correctly filled out, and properly translated if necessary.
Health Insurance: Secure comprehensive health insurance that is accepted by the visa authorities of Turkey or Italy.
Local Networks: Try to connect with expat communities in both countries through social media or expat forums to get insights and practical advice.
Conclusion
Choosing between Turkey and Italy for a digital nomad visa will largely depend on personal preferences regarding lifestyle, cost, and cultural experiences. Both countries offer incredible opportunities for remote workers looking to expand their horizons while maintaining their careers. By understanding each country’s visa requirements, benefits, and challenges, you can make an informed decision that best suits your digital nomad dreams.
