Self-employment / Freelance visa

Lavoro autonomo

Run your own business or freelance practice in Italy.

Who it's for: Freelancers, consultants, artists and entrepreneurs who want to work in Italy (with a partita IVA).

Requirements

Subject to Decreto Flussi quotas (small numbers)
Proof of financial resources and income above the minimum threshold
Certificates from the Chamber of Commerce or professional body, and accommodation
Innovative startups can use the separate 'Italia Startup Visa' (€50k+ funding, fast-track)

Timeline: 3–6 months
Approximate cost: €116 visa fee plus setup costs (commercialista €1–2k/year)
Can you work?: Yes, as self-employed
Path to permanent: EU long-term permit after 5 years, then citizenship after 10 years

Pros

Lets you build an Italian business
The startup visa is a fast-track option

Cons

Limited quotas
High social contributions (INPS) for freelancers

Official source: vistoperitalia.esteri.it

General information as of autumn 2026, not legal advice. Requirements vary by consulate. Confirm with yours or with a licensed Italian immigration lawyer.