Moving to Italy: Visa & Entry System Overview
Italy’s immigration system distinguishes strictly between short-term visits (tourism, business) and long-term relocation. For foreign nationals moving to Italy in 2026, understanding the difference between a Schengen Visa (Type C) and a National Visa (Type D) is the first critical step.
Significant changes to European border control are scheduled for implementation in late 2025 and 2026, specifically the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the ETIAS travel authorization. These new digital systems will affect how non-EU nationals enter Italy.
EU/EEA vs. Non-EU Citizens
Your nationality determines your entry path:
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: You do not need a visa. You have the right to live and work in Italy without a permit. For stays longer than 90 days, you must register with the local vital records office (Anagrafe) to obtain residency.
- Non-EU Citizens: You generally need a visa for any stay longer than 90 days. For short stays, requirements depend on your specific nationality (e.g., US, UK, and Canadian citizens are visa-exempt for tourism but will soon require ETIAS).
Short Stays: Schengen Visa (Type C)
The Schengen Visa is for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to tourism, business meetings, and short study courses. It does not grant the right to move to Italy permanently or work locally.
New Border Systems (2025/2026)
Two major EU-wide updates will impact travelers entering Italy:
- Entry/Exit System (EES): Scheduled for full rollout by early 2026. This automated IT system registers travelers from non-EU countries each time they cross an external EU border. It replaces passport stamping and records biometric data (fingerprints and facial images).
- ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System): Expected to launch in late 2026. Travelers from visa-exempt countries (such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia) will need to apply for this digital authorization before travel. It is not a visa, but a pre-screening waiver similar to the US ESTA.
Long Stays: National Visa (Type D)
To live in Italy for more than 90 days, you must obtain a National Visa (Type D). This visa allows you to enter Italy with the intent to reside. Once you arrive, you must apply for a Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days.
1. Digital Nomad Visa
Introduced effectively in 2024, this visa is for highly skilled non-EU workers who can perform their job remotely.
- Target: Freelancers and remote employees of foreign companies.
- Income Requirement: Approximately €28,000 ($30,800 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
- Key Documents: Proof of accommodation, comprehensive health insurance, clean criminal record, and evidence of at least 6 months of remote work experience.
- Taxation: Holders are tax residents in Italy and must pay Italian taxes.
2. Elective Residence Visa (Residenza Elettiva)
Designed for individuals who have high passive income and do not intend to work in Italy. Often used by retirees.
- Work Status: Strictly NO work allowed (active employment is prohibited).
- Financial Requirement (Single): Minimum ~€31,000 ($34,100 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
- Financial Requirement (Couple): Minimum ~€38,000 ($41,800 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
- Source of Funds: Must come from passive sources like pensions, annuities, or rental income. Salary income is generally not accepted.
3. Investor Visa ("Golden Visa")
A fast-track option for high-net-worth individuals willing to invest capital in Italy.
- Investment Options:
- €250,000 ($275,000 USD, Jan 2026): In an innovative Italian startup.
- €500,000 ($550,000 USD, Jan 2026): In an Italian limited company.
- €1 million ($1.1 million USD, Jan 2026): Philanthropic donation.
- €2 million ($2.2 million USD, Jan 2026): Italian government bonds.
- Processing: Faster than standard visas; includes a dedicated online "Nulla Osta" procedure.
4. Work Visa (Decreto Flussi)
Italy uses a quota system called Decreto Flussi to manage the number of foreign workers. For the 2026–2028 period, the government has authorized specific quotas.
- 2026 Quota: Approximately 164,850 spots available for non-EU workers.
- Procedure: Employers in Italy must apply for a "Nulla Osta" (work authorization) during specific "Click Days" usually scheduled in early 2026 (January/February/March).
- Categories: Includes seasonal work (agriculture, tourism), non-seasonal work (construction, freight), and self-employment (very limited quotas).
5. Student Visa
For non-EU nationals enrolled in a recognized Italian educational institution.
- Duration: Valid for the duration of the course.
- Work Rights: Students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week).
- Financial Requirement: Must prove minimum subsistence means of approximately €460 ($506 USD, Jan 2026) per month, or roughly €6,000 per year.
Visa Fees (Estimates Jan 2026)
Visa fees are set in Euros but often paid in local currency. Fees are subject to quarterly adjustments based on exchange rates.
- Schengen Visa (Type C): €90 ($105 USD)
- Schengen Visa (Minors 6-12): €45 ($53 USD)
- National Visa (Type D - Long Stay): €116 ($135 USD)
- National Study Visa (Type D): €50 ($58 USD)
Application Process Summary
- Determine Visa Type: Confirm which category fits your purpose (work, study, retirement).
- Secure "Nulla Osta" (If applicable): For work and family reunification visas, your sponsor in Italy must first obtain this clearance from the immigration desk (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione).
- Apply at Consulate: Submit your application, passport, and biometrics at the Italian Consulate or Embassy in your home country.
- Entry & Registration: Upon arriving in Italy, you have 8 days to visit a Post Office and apply for your Permesso di Soggiorno (Residence Permit).
Note: Visa processing times can vary significantly. Student and tourist visas typically take 15–30 days, while work and elective residence visas can take several months depending on consulate workload and document verification.