Getting There — Visa

Digital Nomad Visa — requires remote work for foreign clients/employers, min €28,000/yr net income, and 6 months work experience. Valid 1 year, renewable. Elective Residence Visa — for retirees and those with passive income (€31,000/yr minimum, no work allowed). Both offer a path to long-term residency.

Cost of Living

30-50% less than US major cities. Southern Italy and smaller cities (€1,200-1,800/mo) are very affordable; Milan and Rome cost more but still undercut NYC/SF.

Key Fact

Italy launched its digital nomad visa in 2024, making it much easier for remote workers than the old elective residence route. Italian bureaucracy is notoriously slow (3-6 months processing), so patience and a good immigration lawyer are essential.