Self-Employment Visa
Italy
Last updated: December 25, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$135
3-4 months
High
About this Visa
This visa lets you work for yourself in Italy. You can be a freelancer, own a business, or work as an independent professional. You need to show you have enough money to support yourself and a solid plan for your work. This is one of Italy's hardest visas to get. Only 650 people per year can have it. You must apply on a specific day when Italy opens applications, and spots fill up fast. You cannot work as an employee for an Italian company. You must work for yourself only.
Key Benefits
- Work for yourself without asking Italian company permission
- Bring spouse and children to live with you
- Get public healthcare at low cost
- Travel freely in 27 European countries
- After 5 years get EU protection for residence
- After 10 years become Italian citizen
- Get 50% tax break on income for first 5 years
- Stay and work in Italy as long as you renew permit
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 or older
- Must have no criminal record
- Must have clean background check
- Must have work experience or professional degree
- Must show you can support yourself financially
- Must have health insurance before arriving
- Must speak enough Italian to live in Italy
- EU citizens do not need this visa
- Swiss and EEA citizens do not need this visa
Financial Requirement
Need €8,400 per year (about $9,860) OR €14,000 in business resources (about $16,450). Prove with tax returns or bank statements.
Documents
- Valid passportGood for at least 3 months after visa expires
- Visa application formCompleted and signed
- Passport photos2 photos, 3cm × 4cm, white background
- Proof of residenceApartment lease or letter from owner
- Police background checkFrom home country, must be clean
- Health insurance$30,000+ minimum coverage
- Tax returnFrom last year showing €8,400+ income
- Work authorization letterNulla Osta from Italian police, valid 6 months
- Business plan or client proofIf self-employed or freelancer
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.