Italian Residence Permit for the Digital Nomad

Dmitry S., 34 years old, an experienced web developer from St. Petersburg, contacted GARANT.in in April 2024, seeking assistance in obtaining an Italian residence permit (RP) through the digital nomad program. Dmitry had been successfully working remotely for over ten years for a US-based international IT company. His high income and flexible work schedule allowed him to consider relocating to a country with a more favorable climate and a higher quality of life to obtain migration status.

The constant rain, gray skies, and cold climate of St. Petersburg motivated Dmitry to seek new opportunities for living. Italy had long attracted him with its culture, architecture, cuisine, and mild weather. Moreover, the country had recently begun actively developing a digital nomad support program, making it an ideal choice.

Client’s Goals:

1. Obtaining an Italian residence permit. Dmitry wanted to legalize his stay in Italy to be able to work remotely, travel within the Schengen area, and access local healthcare.
2. Finding housing. He needed a comfortable apartment in Rome where he could work efficiently. One of his main requirements was high-speed internet and a quiet workspace.
3. Relocating with his pet. Dmitry wanted to bring his dog, his constant companion, to Italy. It was crucial that the living conditions were suitable for both him and his pet.

Dmitry chose GARANT.in due to numerous positive reviews and the company’s professional expertise in handling digital nomad programs. It was essential for him that the document processing went smoothly and without unnecessary delays.

Case Processing Stages

1. Initial Consultation & Situation Analysis

GARANT.in lawyers conducted a detailed consultation with Dmitry to assess his eligibility for the digital nomad program. During the discussion, his professional and financial profile was evaluated. Dmitry turned out to be an ideal candidate based on the following criteria:

• Stable high income. Dmitry earned $6,000 per month, significantly exceeding the program's minimum requirements.
• Proof of remote work. A contract with a US IT company clearly stated that he performed his duties remotely.
• Financial stability. Dmitry provided a bank statement confirming a balance of $50,000, ensuring his financial independence while living in Italy.
• Health insurance. Dmitry was ready to obtain an insurance policy valid in Italy to cover all medical expenses.
• Housing commitment. He expressed his willingness to rent an apartment in Italy and provide a lease agreement as part of the residency application requirements.

The lawyers developed a detailed action plan to ensure the successful completion of all RP application stages, from document preparation to organizing the move.

2. Document Preparation

The legal team began collecting and preparing a complete set of documents for the application. The list included:

• Passport. A valid passport with a sufficient expiration period.
• Employment contract. Proof of remote work, including salary details.
• Bank statement. A document confirming funds exceeding €28,000, meeting the financial requirements for the RP application.
• Health insurance. A policy with coverage of at least €30,000 is valid in Italy.
• Housing confirmation. A one-year apartment lease agreement in Rome.
• Additional documents. A visa application form and a certificate of no criminal record.

GARANT.in lawyers ensured all documents were translated into Italian by a licensed translator and notarized. Each step was carefully monitored to eliminate errors that could lead to delays or rejection.

3. Housing Search

One of Dmitry’s key requests was renting a comfortable apartment in central Rome. He wanted a place in a historic district, spacious, with a convenient workspace and high-speed internet. The legal team collaborated with local partners to offer Dmitry several options.

• Property selection. Apartments were offered in the Trastevere, Monti, and Prati districts, all meeting Dmitry’s criteria.
• Final choice. Dmitry chose a spacious two-room apartment in Trastevere. The apartment had modern renovations, a separate workspace, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The district offered easy access to attractions and cozy cafés for leisure.
• Lease agreement. The rental contract was signed remotely, and Dmitry received certified copies of the documents.

4. Residency Application Submission

In May 2024, Dmitry submitted his RP application at the Italian consulate in St. Petersburg. GARANT.in lawyers meticulously reviewed each document to minimize the risk of rejection. The submission process included several key steps:

• Final document verification. Before submission, all documents were rechecked for compliance with Italian immigration requirements.
• Consulate submission. Dmitry visited the consulate, submitted the documents, and received confirmation of the application review.
• Interview. Two weeks later, Dmitry was invited for an interview, during which he:
  • Discussed his work experience and confirmed that he would continue working remotely.
  • Explained why he chose Italy for residence and how he planned to integrate into the local community.
  • Provided a bank statement proving financial independence.
  • Presented his lease agreement and health insurance policy.

5. Visa Approval & Relocation

In early July, Dmitry received a positive response from the Italian consulate, marking the final step in obtaining his RP. GARANT.in lawyers not only ensured the timely visa issuance but also organized the relocation process, covering several key aspects:

• Flight booking for Dmitry and his dog, selecting the best routes with convenient layovers.
• Pet transport documentation, including a veterinary passport, health certificates, and compliance documents required by Italy.
• Airport transfer arrangement in Rome, where a company representative met Dmitry to assist with settling in and handling initial logistics.

These measures allowed Dmitry to move to Italy smoothly, starting a new chapter in his life without unnecessary stress or logistical issues.

Results

1. Obtaining Italian Residency

By mid-August 2024, Dmitry successfully received his one-year RP card with renewal rights. This new status provided numerous benefits:

• Legal residence in Italy while continuing to work remotely for his US IT company.
• Freedom to travel within the Schengen area without additional visas.
• Access to local healthcare, banking services, and other resident privileges.

2. Comfortable Housing

The apartment in Trastevere became an ideal place for living and working. Its central location provided cultural immersion, while modern amenities ensured a productive remote work environment.

• High-speed internet allowed Dmitry to efficiently perform his professional duties.
• A spacious home office became a key element for organizing his work.
• A cozy living space provided comfort for both Dmitry and his dog.

3. Integration into Italian Life

Dmitry quickly adapted to his new lifestyle in Italy, balancing his professional and personal life.

• Made new friends among locals and other digital nomads, helping him integrate into the community.
• Started learning Italian through language courses, making communication and cultural immersion easier.
• Began exploring Italy, combining work with visits to historical landmarks, nature reserves, and cultural events.

These achievements made Dmitry’s migration to Italy not only successful but also highly comfortable, fulfilling his dream of living in a country with a rich history and a mild climate.

Client Testimonial

"GARANT.in made my Italian migration process as simple and stress-free as possible. From the first call to receiving my RP card, the team demonstrated high professionalism. I didn’t have to worry about paperwork, housing, or relocation – everything was handled precisely according to my needs. Thanks to their attention to detail and support at every step, I not only fulfilled my dream but also adapted to a new country without unnecessary hassle. Now I live and work in Italy, enjoying its culture, nature, and comfortable climate. Huge thanks for your hard work and care!" — Dmitry S.

Dmitry’s case vividly illustrates how the digital nomad RP program opens new opportunities for highly skilled professionals. His experience shows that with the right approach and professional support, even complex migration processes can be completed quickly and easily.

If you dream of swapping a harsh climate for sunny Italy, and accessing European opportunities while continuing remote work, the digital nomad program is your perfect choice.

Trust your relocation to professionals and take the first step towards living in Italy with GARANT.in!