As digital nomadism becomes more popular, countries like Spain and Italy are opening doors to remote workers with special visas. Both countries offer appealing options, but which one should you choose?
Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, explores the key differences and guides you through the process of obtaining an Italy or Spain Digital Nomad Visa.
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
Digital nomad visas allow non-EU citizens to live and work in a country while maintaining a job outside of that country. This visa is designed to support the growing trend of location-independent professionals who want to experience life abroad without needing local employment.
Spain and Italy both offer their own versions of this visa, with specific requirements, processes, and benefits.
The flexibility of remote work is key. Digital nomad visas are aimed at professionals who can work from anywhere, whether running their own business or working for a foreign company.
These visas generally require:
- proof of remote work;
- health insurance;
- a sufficient income to support yourself during your stay.
How to Move to Italy as a Digital Nomad
Italian visa for remote workers offers residence permit for foreigners under certain conditions. To apply, you need proof of remote work, a stable income, and health insurance.
Costs. Italy requires applicants to show a monthly income of around €2,700.
Process. You will need to apply at your nearest Italian consulate. The process includes submitting financial proof, a clean criminal record, and health insurance.
Documents. Required documents include proof of income, remote work contracts, passport copies, and health insurance. A criminal background check is also mandatory.
Requirements. Applicants must prove that their work is fully remote and not tied to the Italian economy. The visa is typically granted for one year but can be renewed.
Living in Italy as a digital nomad offers cultural and financial benefits. Remote workers often choose cities like Milan or Florence, known for their rich culture and affordable lifestyle. Also, the tax incentives available to expats make Italy an appealing option.
Taxation in Italy can be favourable for expats. Italy has introduced special tax regimes aimed at attracting foreign workers, which allow digital nomads to benefit from reduced tax rates for several years. For high-net-worth individuals, this could be a significant advantage when deciding to relocate.
How to Move to Spain as a Digital Nomad
Spain’s digital nomad visa is another attractive option. Much like Italy, the visa allows remote workers to live in the country while maintaining jobs abroad. Here’s how the process works:
Costs. Spain has a lower income threshold than Italy, requiring proof of a minimum income of €2,646 per month.
Process. Applications must be submitted through a Spanish consulate. The process includes providing evidence of remote work, income, and health coverage, as well as a background check.
Documents. Essential documents include proof of income, work contracts, insurance, and a criminal background check.
Requirements. Spain requires remote work for companies outside of Spain. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to five years.
Spain offers diverse living options for digital nomads. Popular cities include Barcelona and Madrid, where the cost of living is moderate compared to other European capitals. The Spanish lifestyle, with its vibrant social scene and mild climate, is an added bonus for remote workers.
Spain also provides a strong social safety net. With access to high-quality public healthcare and a more relaxed work-life balance, Spain is attractive for those looking for a slower pace of life.
Spain’s Mediterranean climate offers year-round sunshine, which is a significant draw for many digital nomads.
Spain vs. Italy: Which Digital Nomad Visa to Choose
Choosing between Spain and Italy depends on lifestyle and costs. Here are some factors to consider.
Cost of living. Spain generally offers a lower cost of living, especially in cities like Valencia or Seville. Italy can be more expensive, particularly in cities like Milan or Rome.
Visa requirements. Italy’s income requirement is slightly higher, making Spain a better option for those with lower income levels.
Cultural differences. Spain is known for its relaxed lifestyle, sunny weather, and active social life. Italy offers a rich history, world-class art, and diverse regional cuisines.
Tax incentives. Both countries offer tax incentives for expats, but Italy’s regime is more generous in the long term, especially for high-income earners.
Language barrier. While both countries require a basic understanding of the local language, English is more widely spoken in Spain’s larger cities than in Italy’s.
Conclusion
Choosing between Spain and Italy for long-term residency as a digital nomad depends on your financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and professional needs. Both countries offer attractive benefits, but Spain may be more suited for those seeking lower costs, while Italy provides better long-term tax advantages.
