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.
Introduction to Digital Nomadism
Digital nomadism is a lifestyle that has gained immense popularity in recent years, especially among remote workers and freelancers. It involves traveling to different countries while working remotely, often using digital tools and technology to stay connected with clients and colleagues. This lifestyle offers the freedom to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes while maintaining a career.
Italy, with its rich culture, history, and beautiful landscapes, has become a popular destination for digital nomads. The Italian government has recognized this trend and introduced a digital nomad visa to attract remote workers and freelancers. This visa offers a unique opportunity to live and work in Italy, allowing digital nomads to immerse themselves in the Italian way of life while continuing their professional endeavors.
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:
https://citizenremote.com/visas/turkey-digital-nomad-visa/
Photo of Istanbul by Caner Cankisi
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
Additionally, applicants must be eligible to apply for a residence permit, which allows them to legally reside and work in Italy.
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.
After arriving in Italy on a national visa, individuals must apply for a residency permit within eight working days to maintain their legal status.
Benefits
The benefits of the visa in Italy 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:
https://www.globalcitizensolutions.com/italy-digital-nomad-visa/
Photo of Rome by Julius Silver
Alternative Visa Options in Italy
While the digital nomad visa is a popular option for remote workers, Italy offers several other visa options that might suit different needs:
Self-Employment Visa: Ideal for freelancers and self-employed individuals who wish to establish a business in Italy. This visa allows you to work independently and enjoy the benefits of living in Italy.
Elective Residence Visa: Designed for individuals with sufficient financial resources to support themselves without working. This visa is perfect for those who want to enjoy Italy’s lifestyle and culture without the need for employment.
Golden Visa for Investors: Targeted at high-net-worth individuals willing to make significant investments in Italian businesses. This visa provides a pathway to residency for those who contribute to the Italian economy.
Family Reunion Visa: Allows spouses or eligible partners of Italian citizens or residents to join them in Italy. This visa is ideal for families looking to reunite and live together in Italy.
These alternative visa options provide flexibility for remote workers and freelancers, ensuring that there is a suitable pathway for everyone looking to experience life in Italy.
Employment Contracts for Digital Nomads
As a digital nomad in Italy, having a valid employment contract that meets the requirements of Italian labor law is crucial. Whether you are an employee of a foreign company or a freelancer, your contract should include essential details such as job title, salary, working hours, and benefits.
For digital nomads working as employees, the employment contract must comply with the relevant Italian national union standards. This ensures that your rights and benefits are protected during your stay in Italy. Additionally, having comprehensive health insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay is mandatory. This insurance should cover medical expenses and provide peace of mind while living and working in Italy.
Freelancers and self-employed individuals must also ensure they have a valid contract with their clients, outlining the scope of work, payment terms, and other relevant details. This contract, along with proof of health insurance, will be necessary for the visa application process.
Living in Italy and Turkey as a Digital Nomad
Italy and Turkey are both popular destinations for digital nomads, each offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. However, there are some key differences to consider when deciding which country to choose.
Italy offers a more relaxed pace of life, with a focus on enjoying the present moment. The country’s rich history, world-renowned cuisine, and stunning landscapes make it an attractive destination for digital nomads. Italy also boasts a well-developed infrastructure, including a wide range of co-working spaces, making it easier for remote workers to stay productive.
On the other hand, Turkey offers a more vibrant and fast-paced lifestyle. The country’s unique position as a bridge between Europe and Asia provides a diverse cultural experience. Turkey’s relatively low cost of living and beautiful landscapes make it an appealing option for digital nomads looking for an affordable yet enriching experience.
Both countries have their own charm and advantages, so the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
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.
\
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Italian digital nomad visa:
What is the minimum income requirement for the Italian digital nomad visa? The minimum income requirement is €28,000 annually.
Do digital nomads pay tax in Italy? Yes, digital nomads are considered tax residents and are subject to Italian income tax and social security contributions.
Can I bring my family with me to Italy on a digital nomad visa? Yes, you can bring your family with you to Italy, but you will need to meet higher income requirements and provide additional documentation.
How long does it take to get the Italian digital nomad visa? The processing time typically takes around 1-3 months, depending on the consulate and the completeness of your application.
Can I apply for permanent residency in Italy after holding a digital nomad visa? Yes, after living in Italy for five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after ten years, you can apply for citizenship.
These FAQs provide essential information for digital nomads considering Italy as their next destination, helping them make informed decisions about their move.