Practitioners' breakdown

Comparison of Digital Nomad and Lavoro Autonomo in Italy

Topic: Lavoro autonomo and business · from 4 practitioner posts 2022 · 718 words, 4 min read

In short

Digital nomad is a temporary stay, while lavoro autonomo is the opportunity to run a business.

In Italy, there are two popular statuses for foreign citizens wishing to work: digital nomad and lavoro autonomo. Both options have their own features, advantages, and disadvantages that are important to consider when making a choice.

The official procedure and requirements are in the pillar section “Lavoro autonomo and business”; this page is how it looks in practice according to practitioners' publications.

Who Can Become a Digital Nomad or Lavoro Autonomo

A digital nomad is a status for those who work remotely for foreign companies without the right to employment in Italy. This option is suitable for those who want to temporarily live in the country but do not plan to integrate into the local labor market. In contrast, lavoro autonomo is intended for those who want to run a business or work as a freelancer in Italy. This status allows for various types of entrepreneurial activities, including starting a business, renting out property, and setting up branches. Thus, the choice between these statuses depends on an individual's goals and plans for life in Italy.

Conditions and Amounts for Obtaining Statuses

To obtain the digital nomad status, a minimal set of documents can be gathered in Russia. This process is relatively simple and does not require presence in Italy. However, despite its simplicity, the digital nomad status does not allow for conducting business or working for Italian companies. In contrast, obtaining the lavoro autonomo status requires a more complex process, including gathering documents in Italy and having a work permit. This status allows for entrepreneurship but requires more time and effort to process.

Documents Required for Application

To apply for a digital nomad visa, you need to provide documents confirming remote work for foreign companies, as well as financial guarantees. In contrast, obtaining the lavoro autonomo status requires a more extensive set of documents, including a business plan, financial reports, and proof of necessary resources to run a business. It is important to note that a digital nomad cannot convert their status to another type of residence permit, while lavoro autonomo can be transformed into other types of residence permits.

Procedure and Timeline for Obtaining

The process of obtaining the digital nomad status can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the speed of document processing. However, as mentioned earlier, this status does not allow for working for Italian companies. In the case of lavoro autonomo, the process may take longer due to the need to gather documents in Italy and obtain permits. Nevertheless, this status provides more opportunities for doing business and integrating into the local economy.

Exceptions and Pitfalls

One of the main drawbacks of the digital nomad status is the inability to convert it into other types of residence permits. This means that if a person decides to change their plans and wants to stay in Italy for a longer period, they will have to leave the country and reapply. In the case of lavoro autonomo, although the application process may be more complicated, it provides more opportunities for further development and growth in Italy.

What to Do If You Are Unsure About Your Choice

If you are unsure which status to choose, it is recommended to carefully analyze your goals and future plans. If you simply want to live in Italy and work remotely, the digital nomad status may be a good option. However, if you plan to run a business or work for Italian companies, it is better to consider obtaining the lavoro autonomo status. It is also important to consult with professionals who can help clarify the nuances and choose the most suitable option.

Where people go wrong

Not considering that a digital nomad cannot work for Italian companies.
Assuming that the digital nomad status can be easily converted to other residence permits.
Ignoring the need to gather documents in Italy for lavoro autonomo.

FAQ

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is a status for remote workers who temporarily reside in Italy and work for foreign companies.

What are the advantages of lavoro autonomo?

Lavoro autonomo allows you to run a business, work as a freelancer, and integrate into the local labor market.

Can the digital nomad status be converted to another?

No, the digital nomad status cannot be converted to other types of residence permits in Italy.

What follows

The choice between digital nomad and lavoro autonomo depends on your goals and plans for life in Italy. It is important to carefully analyze all aspects before making a decision.

Where to verify

The current procedure and amounts are on esteri.it; the article retells practitioners' publications from 2022. Short answers on the theme - FAQ: Taxes and work.