Spain vs Italy Digital Nomad Visa: Ultimate Comparison

The digital nomad lifestyle has grown in popularity over the years, with many countries offering visas specifically designed for remote workers. Spain and Italy are two of the most attractive options for digital nomads. Both countries offer unique opportunities to live and work in Europe, but the visa options differ in terms of requirements, benefits, and processes.

In this article, Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, will compare Italian and Spanish Digital Nomad Visa programs, helping you decide which one suits you best.

Italy Nomad Residence

Italy Digital Nomad Visa offers a residence for remote workers. The country’s digital nomad program is known for its flexibility, allowing remote workers to live in Italy for up to one year, with the possibility of extension. Italy has a relatively straightforward visa process compared to other European countries, with some eligibility criteria that are easy to meet.

To qualify, applicants need to prove they can support themselves financially, as well as show they are working for a company outside of Italy or running their own online business. There is also a requirement for a minimum income of €2,700 per month, which ensures that applicants can sustain themselves without relying on public resources. The visa is available for both freelancers and employees who can work remotely.

Spain Nomad Visa

Spain’s digital nomad visa is part of a broader plan to attract talent to the country. The visa allows remote workers to live and work in Spain for up to one year, with the option to renew it for an additional two years. This visa is targeted at non-EU citizens who work for foreign companies or run their own online businesses.

In Spain, the visa is designed for those with a steady income €2,762 per month and offers several benefits for digital nomads. The country is known for its high quality of life, mild climate, and vibrant culture, making it an attractive option for remote workers. One of the biggest advantages is that it opens the door to living in Spain without needing to be tied to a specific location, as long as the work can be done remotely.

Benefits of Spain vs Italy Nomad Visas

Both Spain and Italy offer excellent benefits for digital nomads. Here is a breakdown of some key advantages.

Spain offers the chance to live in a country with a rich cultural history, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle. The visa is part of a broader effort to attract international talent and boost the country’s economy. Spain also provides a high standard of healthcare and easy access to the European Union.

Italy, on the other hand, is well-known for its historic cities, delicious food, and high quality of life. The digital nomad visa allows you to live in major cities like Rome, Milan, or Florence, while enjoying the country’s excellent public services and social system. Additionally, Italy’s residency options are generally seen as more accessible than those of other EU countries.

When comparing the two, it’s clear that both countries offer attractive perks. Spain may appeal more to those who prefer warmer weather and a laid-back lifestyle, while Italy may be ideal for those who want to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage and historical cities.

Spain Nomad Visa Requirements

Spain’s digital nomad visa comes with a few key requirements:

1. Income level. Applicants must prove they have a minimum income that meets the visa’s threshold. The minimum requirement is set to ensure that applicants can support themselves during their stay in Spain.
2. Health insurance. Applicants must have health insurance that covers them in Spain, ensuring they are protected in case of medical emergencies.
3. Valid passport. The applicant must have a valid passport for the duration of their stay.
4. Remote work proof: Proof of employment or income is necessary. This could be from an employer located outside of Spain or evidence of self-employment through an online business.

Spain’s requirements are relatively easy to meet, and the visa process is designed to be user-friendly, making it a strong option for remote workers.

Italy Requirements

Italy’s digital nomad visa requirements are similar but also straightforward:

1. Income: Applicants must meet a minimum income requirement of €2,700 per month, ensuring they can support themselves without relying on the state. The income threshold is generally lower than Spain’s, making it an attractive option for those who may not meet the higher income levels required by Spain.
2. Proof of employment: Applicants need to prove that they work remotely for an employer outside of Italy or run their own business.
3. Health insurance: Like Spain, applicants must have comprehensive health insurance that covers them while in Italy.
4. Valid passport: A valid passport is required, as with any visa application.

The key difference here is that Italy may be a better fit for those with lower income levels or those looking for a simpler application process.

Comparison of Spain and Italy Digital Nomad Programs

When it comes to the details of Spain vs Italy’s digital nomad visa programs, here’s a comparison of the most important factors:

1. Income requirement. Spain typically requires a higher minimum income of €2,762 per month to qualify for the visa, which may make Italy more accessible to some applicants.
2. Visa duration. Spain offers a one-year visa with the option to renew it for two additional years, while Italy’s visa lasts for one year with possible extensions based on certain conditions.
3. Healthcare. Both countries require proof of comprehensive health insurance, and both offer excellent healthcare systems.
4. Living conditions. Spain is known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, while Italy offers rich history, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes. The choice between these countries often comes down to personal preference in terms of lifestyle.
5. Ease of application. Spain has a more straightforward process, while Italy may be easier for those with lower income levels or a simpler business structure.

Both programs are highly beneficial for digital nomads, and the best option depends largely on your personal circumstances and preferences.

Spain may be ideal for those seeking a warmer climate and an established remote work environment, while Italy offers a slightly easier application process and the allure of living in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries.

Conclusion

Both Spain and Italy offer great opportunities for digital nomads. Whether you are drawn to Spain’s vibrant culture and warm climate or Italy’s rich history and charming cities, both countries provide attractive benefits for remote workers. The key differences lie in income requirements, the length of the visa, and the overall ease of the application process.