In the summer of 2025, we packed up our house in San Diego, California, and moved to Italy.  The journey began almost a year prior, with careful planning and logistics to make living abroad a possibility.  We researched digital nomad visa options, organized our finances, and even our hound dog was part of the plan (we’re writing a full blog on traveling with pets internationally as we’ve received so many questions!)

Step by step, the pieces came together, and we have made our dream of living abroad a reality.  If you, too, have been dreaming about leaving the U.S., whether for a few months or more permanently, this blog is a comprehensive guide to help you get there.

In this blog, we share 10 steps from planning to departure:

1. Define Your Why for Living Abroad
2. Plan Your Income Stream
3. Research Destinations and Visas
4. Visa Applications and Appointments
5. Plan Your Finances and Create a Monthly Budget
6. How to Find Health Insurance
7. Find a Place to Live
8. Downsize, Digitize, and Forward Your Mail
9. Build Community in the Country You Wish to Live
10. Start Small, Then Expand

We know you came here for DIY steps to turn your dream of leaving the U.S. and living abroad into reality, so andiamo, let’s go!

1. Define Your Why for Living Abroad

Before diving into logistics, the first thing you need to do is to get clear on why you want to live abroad.  Everyone has different reasons.  America is expensive and crowded, and political sentiments are running high.  Maybe you want to move for a better quality of life and a lower cost of living?  Learn a new language or a new skill?  Or perhaps, like me, you are nearing an age when you can begin to plan for retirement and want to set yourself up somewhere to make all those hard-earned U.S. dollars last longer.

Defining your motivation to leave the U.S. will help guide your decisions as we move through this process.

2. Plan Your Income Stream to Support Your Life Overseas

Planning your income stream takes the #2 spot on our list as it’s the foundation for your move.  Once you know exactly how you’ll sustain income, you remove the biggest barrier to living abroad.

There are several options to create a sustainable income to support your new life:

• Working Remotely
• Creating a Passive Income Stream
• Using Your Retirement Savings

Working Remotely

Living abroad in the EU or elsewhere isn’t just for freelancers and digital nomads.  However, if you are here for guidance on applying for a digital nomad visa to live in Europe, bookmark our last blog, The Digital Nomad Visa: The Truth Behind What it Takes to Work Remotely in Europe, and read it next!

If you’re established in your career, start by evaluating whether your current role or expertise can translate into opportunities abroad.  Some employers may allow you to begin or continue working remotely outside the U.S.  Keep in mind, taxes and time zones can matter.

However, if that’s not possible, consider leveraging your experience to offer consulting services or project-based work, either to U.S. clients from overseas or directly within your new country of residence.

Creating a Passive Income Stream

Passive income streams can support you while you live abroad, sometimes even covering your living expenses entirely.  For some expats, a combination of solid investments and rental properties provides the security of a steady income without needing to find work overseas.

Here are a few examples of the passive income streams you can explore:

Investments

If you’ve built up a portfolio of investments: stocks, bonds, or other assets, this passive income can provide a stable foundation for living abroad.  The key is to understand how your investments will be taxed once you’re outside the U.S.  Some countries have tax treaties that help avoid double taxation, while others may not.  Consulting with a financial advisor can also help you maximize returns and ensure your investments support your lifestyle overseas.

Rental Properties

• Property manager
• Housekeeper
• Rental contract- especially if you are renting outside of apps like Airbnb and VRBO
• Insurance- specifically for rental properties

The 1 Euro House Idea

The ‘1 Euro House‘ concept began in Sicily in 2008 to deal with abandoned homes and a shrinking population.  In its simplest terms, you purchase a home for 1 euro and agree to fix it up and live in it for a certain amount of time each year.  The 1 Euro House program gained international recognition in 2018-2020 in Sicily and other parts of Italy.  And while this does seem like a viable option, we do not suggest planning to purchase a property and using that to develop a passive income stream.

Many have asked us if this was our plan in Italy.  To buy a ‘1 Euro House‘ and convert it into a rental property.  Unfortunately, purchasing a 1 Euro House often comes with a catch:

• They are often located in remote villages
• The area may be absent of young adults, nightlife, and cultural experiences
• 1 Euro houses are rarely move-in ready
• Major renovations are often needed (how about installing heat, electricity, or running water?!)
• You might be responsible for covering back taxes on the property

Retirement Savings

3. Research Destinations and Visas

Living Abroad in Europe and the UK

The rise of the digital nomad visa, available in countries throughout Europe, has opened the doors to those who can work from anywhere.  Our step-by-step blog focuses primarily on EU countries, and more specifically, on Italy.  There are also several visa options for Americans who want to relocate to the UK- England, Scotland, or Wales.  Ireland is also a very popular destination, but that will fall under the EU and Schengen Area rules.

One thing to consider is that both the British pound and the euro are worth more than the U.S. dollar, which could make living abroad in the UK, Italy, Greece, Spain, or Portugal more challenging.  Therefore, you may want to research other, less expensive destinations that have vibrant expat communities.

Living Abroad in Mexico, South America, and Central America

Many expats choose to relocate to countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, or Nicaragua due to the low cost of living, ease of travel to/from the U.S., and the language spoken, mainly Spanish.  These countries also have more straightforward visa and residency options compared to Europe.

For example, Mexico offers temporary and permanent residency permits with relatively low income or savings requirements.  Costa Rica has well-defined categories such as Pensionado (for retirees) and Rentista (for those with a steady income).

Here are a few blogs we’ve written on Latin American destinations that have excellent access to the outdoors, cultural experiences, plus a solid wifi signal in most areas:

• Costa Rica
• Mexico: Sayulita, Ensenada (Baja), Saladita, Oaxaca, Mérida (Yucatan)
• Ecuador

Retirement Visas and the ‘Golden Ticket’ Visa

Besides the digital nomad visa, there are also retirement visas and investment visas (aka the Golden Ticket visa).  A Retirement Visa, Elective Residency Visa, or Pensione Visa might be of interest if you are retired or nearing retirement age and do not plan to work while in your new country.  The rules vary based on which country you apply to, so read the fine print before applying!

The Investment Visa or ‘Golden Ticket Visa’ grants foreigners the right to live in a country in exchange for a large financial investment.  This was quite popular in places like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.  However, the political climate and regulatory scrutiny are increasing, pushing lawmakers to balance affordable housing with foreign investment opportunities.  Many countries have discontinued the Golden Ticket Visa as a result.

4. Organize Your Documents for Your Visa Application

There is a lot of paperwork that goes into ensuring a successful move overseas.  Once you have selected the country you would like to relocate to, visit their Consulate or Embassy website to learn more about what is required for your visa application.  There will be a long list of items, but break each item down into steps, and you’ll get through it.  You may be required to get documents notarized and apostilled, so start the visa application process 6 to 9 months before your planned departure!

Here are a few common items you will need to submit with your visa application:

• Valid passport-  6 months’ validity beyond your planned stay
• Valid driver’s license in the Consulate/Embassy region where you apply
• Extra passport photos: for visas, residency permits
• Proof of Employment: contract from employer, invoices, business ownership
• Bank account statements: show you meet the Minimum Income Requirement
• Proof of Accommodation Abroad:  A rental contract
• A Clean Criminal Record
• Proof of Health Insurance

Getting a Visa Appointment

One of the hardest steps in our process was getting a visa appointment at the Italian Consulate.  Appointments are booked exclusively through the Prenot@mi website (which literally means ‘book me’ or reserve me’ in Italian).  Begin by creating an account for each person (even as a married couple, you will each need an appointment).  The Prenot@mi website also provides details on the application process and documents needed based on the type of visa you are applying for: Digital Nomad Visa, Elective Residency Visa, etc.

Keep in mind, each country will have a different process to schedule a visa appointment.  Below are tips specifically for the Italian Consulate:

• Wait time for visa appointments on Prenot@mi is 4-6 weeks
• At 3:00 p.m. Rome time (ECT) cancellations and new booking days/times open
• Log in a few minutes before 3pm ECT and have your documents ready
• Refresh the page repeatedly!

Persistence pays off when you are attempting to get an appointment at the Italian Consulate through the Prenot@mi website.  If you don’t see any appointments right away, keep checking daily.  The Consulate only takes visa appointments on certain days and for a very limited amount of time.  Cancellations can open brief windows of opportunity!

We began our application process in January, and after four appointments at the Italian Consulate, we finally received our 1-year visas in May.  Expect an intense process.  Lots of questions about your intent and financial capacity to sustain yourself.  Bring every single document you think you may need!

Pro tip: Make a copy of your visa application packet BEFORE you submit it.  You will often need to resubmit the same documents for your residency permit.  For Italy, you must apply for the Permesso di Soggiorno, or residency permit, within 8 days of arriving in Italy.  Rules for visa applications can change, so try to be patient and don’t expect things to move fast.

5. Plan Your Finances and Create a Monthly Budget for Living Abroad

After you’ve determined your revenue stream and the country you’d like to live in, create a realistic budget.  Factor in your expenses you’ll need to continue to pay in the U.S., along with the cost of living abroad.

This will include your travel and moving expenses, plus your common everyday living expenses, such as:

• Rent
• Utilities– electricity, gas, heat, AC, wifi, and parking
• Transportation– Long-term car rental, vehicle purchase, train or bus pass
• Phone Plan– Keep your U.S. number and add a 2nd line with an eSIM. 1 phone, 2 numbers!
• Healthcare
• Legal Fees, Taxes, Banking– Bank account fees, taxes, and any legal fees
• Food and entertainment
• Activities– gym memberships, ski pass, etc.

For us, our major U.S. expenses are our mortgage payment, home and business expenses, and the management of our two Airbnbs.  We downgraded our U.S. phone plans from AT&T to Mint Mobile.  We sold our car, and we dropped a lot of our memberships and subscriptions- you’ll be surprised at how quickly these add up to major savings!

In addition to your monthly expenses to live abroad, you should have at least 3-6 months of savings as a safety net.  Also, consider opening a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card, debit card, or a global bank account for easier money management abroad.

Finally, as a U.S. citizen, you must file taxes each year regardless of where you live.  In addition, you may need to pay income taxes in the country you are moving to.  It may be worth hiring an expat tax advisor to ensure compliance while minimizing paying income taxes in two countries (double taxation).

6. How to Find Health Insurance for Americans Living Abroad

Healthcare is one of the most important considerations when moving overseas.  As an American, the joy of dropping your expensive U.S. healthcare policy might be part of the reason you want to leave the U.S.  However, while some destinations offer affordable public healthcare systems that you can eventually buy into, most countries will require proof of health insurance as part of the visa or residency process. 

When searching for a plan, it’s important to distinguish between short-term travel insurance, emergency medical insurance, and full coverage international health insurance plans.  The latter are designed for long-term travelers and expats.  Search for international health insurance plans from GeoBlue, AXA, Cigna, and other trusted sources.  We initially found Safety Wing, but the Italian Consulate said they would not accept this, so we switched to AXA.  International health coverage will be more expensive than local policies, but you can choose a local plan once you settle in.

Keep in mind, if you do plan to travel back to the U.S., you will need to have sufficient coverage during your trip.  This is when travel and emergency medical insurance policies from companies like Faye and Allianz are most helpful.  Regardless of the path you choose, it’s essential to understand what’s covered, especially for emergency care, prescriptions, and pre-existing conditions, so you can live abroad with peace of mind.

7. Find a Place to Live: Long-Term Rentals

One of the most common requirements for visa or residency applications, whether in Europe, Central America, or other regions, is proof of long-term accommodation.  Most countries will require a rental agreement that covers the full length of your intended stay.  Short-term stays on a friend’s couch, hotels, or Airbnb bookings will not satisfy the requirement.  This step can be one of the most challenging parts of turning your dream of living abroad into a reality, so it’s worth starting your search early!

Long-Term Rental Platforms for Living Abroad

Begin by browsing rental websites that specialize in month-to-month or yearly leases in your destination country.  Many countries have local platforms listing apartments, homes, and shared rentals available for 30 days or longer.  In addition, international platforms like Immobiliare, Spotahome, Idealista, or Casas Particulares often list properties across multiple countries, making it easier to compare regions.

Using Airbnb or VRBO

While platforms like Airbnb or VRBO can help you explore neighborhoods and potential homes, short-term bookings usually do not meet visa requirements.  In addition, many consulates require that rental contracts be registered with local authorities.  Furthermore, monthly Airbnb rates can be significantly higher than standard long-term rentals.  For example, a property might rent for €3,500/month on a long-term rental site but €6,000/month on Airbnb.  If you do start your search on Airbnb or VRBO, be prepared to transition to a formal long-term lease once you identify a property.

Working with Local Real Estate Agents

Partnering with a reputable real estate agent or agency can save time and provide guidance, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local laws, contracts, or the language.  Building a relationship with an agent can also help if you have an interest in purchasing a home once you’ve established residency.

Tips for a Safe and Successful Rental Search

Here’s a quick checklist of tips we recommend to others who want to begin living abroad and find a long-term rental:

• Sign up for rental apps– Idealista, Immobiliare, etc.
• Use in-app messaging tools and WhatsApp to communicate
• Avoid sharing sensitive information: no personal or bank account details
• Verify the property’s location via Google Maps
• Check walkability, transportation options, and neighborhood safety
• Confirm the rental listing matches the photos, and ask for more photos if needed
• Are utilities included? Wi-Fi, heating, A/C, parking, etc.
• What is the cancellation policy?
• How much of a deposit is needed to guarantee your commitment?

We used Immobiliare.it and Idealista.it for our search.  Once we connected with a private landlord, we arranged video calls and asked lots of questions about the home.  In the end, we were so grateful that he not only agreed to provide a 12-month rental contract, but he also filed it with the Italian Tax Authority to help us meet our visa requirements!  Lastly, his parents live in a downstairs apartment, they speak English, and have truly helped us acclimate to our new home.

By planning ahead, leveraging rental platforms and agents, and asking the right questions, you can secure a rental that not only satisfies visa or residency requirements but also sets you up for a smooth, comfortable life abroad.

8. Downsize, Digitize, and Forward Your Mail Before Leaving the U.S.

Simplify your life before you begin living abroad!  Yes, you can rent a storage unit, but we’ve learned it’s best to sell or donate belongings you can live without.  If you have a storage shed or attic space, organize items into labeled bins that you won’t need for a while.

For big-ticket items, sell what you can and store the rest.  We sold our car, skis, rooftop tent, and many other large items that we didn’t have room for.  Many of which can be easily purchased abroad or replaced when we return.

We brought a small packet of important documents with us, but most items we digitized, backed them up securely on our laptop, and in the cloud.  For your mail, begin to cancel all subscriptions (bye Amazon!), magazines, and newspapers.  Convert to paperless statements for all accounts whenever possible.

For regular U.S. mail, arrange for someone to collect your mail, set up a P.O. box, or have it forwarded to a friend or your parents.  If you’ll be renting your home, it’s best not to let the mail pile up there!

9. Building and Connecting with the Expat Community

Living overseas can be isolating if you don’t actively seek connection.  Especially if you do not speak the local language!  We have been lucky to have our landlord’s parents nearby, who speak English and have provided us with lots of recommendations, a history of the town, and the culture.  We have also connected with other expats who have relocated here through WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram.

Without a roommate or friendly neighbors, here are more suggestions on how to connect in your new home overseas:

• Join Facebook groups
• Sign up for email newsletters from shops, visitor centers/tourist boards, and other places in your new town
• Find a coworking space if you are a remote worker
• Sign up for language classes
• Attend local events

Making connections with both expats and locals abroad can lead to new friendships, business opportunities, and a support system.

10. Start Small, Then Expand into Living Abroad More Permanently

You don’t need to bring everything with you and make a permanent move.  First, try it for a few weeks or a 3-month stay.  90 days is the maximum for Americans to stay in any EU country without a visa.  The same goes for Costa Rica or Nicaragua.  In Mexico, you can stay up to 6 months, 180 days without a visa!

Testing the waters may also be a great way to find a town you love and the perfect place to rent.

Final Thoughts on Living Abroad as an American

Leaving the U.S. for a life abroad may feel daunting, but breaking it down into actionable steps makes it achievable.  Define your motivation, secure remote income, pick the right destination, and take care of the essentials.  Then you’re free to focus on the more fun stuff!

Read our blogs on some of the most popular destinations for Americans to start a life abroad:

• Costa Rica
• Mexico: Sayulita, Ensenada (Baja), Saladita, Oaxaca, Mérida (Yucatan)
• Ecuador
• Spain: Mallorca, Costa Brava
• Northern Italy: Dolomites

And, don’t forget the top blog in this series, The Digital Nomad Visa: The Truth Behind What it Takes To Work Remotely in Europe.  Thanks for taking the time to read.  The world is waiting.  All that’s left is to take the first step.

– Meredith Caccese McConvill, Top Rope Media

The post From Dream to Departure: 10 Steps to Leave the U.S. and Begin Living Abroad appeared first on Top Rope Media.

The rise of the digital nomad visa has opened new opportunities for Americans.  So if you’ve been considering a move to Europe and can work remotely, we’ve packed this blog with the truth of what it takes to apply for a digital nomad visa.

We do not want to sugar-coat the amount of time and effort you’ll need to invest in this process.  Many blogs gloss over the stack of documents you need to present at your visa appointment, if you can even get an appointment!  From tax returns to notarized diplomas and transcripts, proof of international health insurance, and a registered rental contract, the documents you need to submit can be overwhelming.  It was for me.  Start the process VERY early, 6-9 months before you’d like to arrive in Europe.

In this blog, I’ll guide you through the steps to becoming a digital nomad in the EU, with a special focus on Italy’s digital nomad visa process.  We just finished this process and have our visas.  Yes, Top Rope Media is going global!  We’ve lived and worked abroad, but this time feels different and much more labor-intensive.

Here’s what this blog will cover:

1. The Surge of the Digital Nomad Visa
2. Choosing Which Country to Apply to
3. Digital Nomad Visa Application
4. How to Find a Place to Live
5. Getting International Health Insurance
6. Traveling to the EU and Getting a Residency Permit
7. Getting a Driver’s License and Buying a Car Abroad
8. Setting up a Bank Account
9. Getting a Phone Number and Receiving Mail
10. Taxes and Legal Responsibilities

I’ve included lots of action items (did I mention this is a long process?), handy links, things to consider, and all the tools we’ve used so far to apply for a digital nomad visa.  So andiamo, let’s go!

1. The Surge of the Digital Nomad Visa

The ability to work remotely and be a digital nomad became very popular during the pandemic.  More people could work from home, or remotely, as long as they had a good wifi connection.  In 2023, 17.3 million Americans identified as digital nomads, up 131% from 2019!  While not all remote workers apply for digital nomad visas, the number of applicants has grown.  In addition, 67 countries now offer a digital nomad visa, indicating a strong demand worldwide.

The surge in visa applications from America for EU countries can be attributed to a combination of political, economic, and quality-of-life factors.  The chance to travel and work without the high cost of living, healthcare, gasoline, or food?  Combine good old inflation with the current political climate, and many of us are ready to pack our bags!

Why is the European Union (EU) a top destination for digital nomads?  Besides an escape from your everyday, it offers the opportunity to experience different cultures, languages, food, and perhaps a higher quality of life.  However, making the leap to being a remote worker in the EU requires careful planning, especially when applying for a digital nomad visa.

The ability to live and work remotely has allowed photographer Kat Reynolds to travel worldwide. She captured this image in beautiful Positano, Italy!

2. Choosing Which Country to Apply for Your Digital Nomad Visa

While many EU countries offer digital nomad visas for Americans, three countries stand out for their benefits, cost of living, and beauty:

Italy

Known for its rich culture, world-class cuisine, and relaxed lifestyle, Italy introduced a 1-year digital nomad visa in April 2024. It’s an attractive option for remote workers, but Italy’s visa requirements are stringent. For instance, you must be highly skilled, and show proof of your professional qualifications, among many other items.

Portugal

A favorite among expats, Portugal began offering a digital nomad visa in October 2022. With tax incentives and an affordable cost of living, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto, Portugal allows remote workers to relocate for 1-2 years.

Spain

Spain launched its digital nomad visa in January 2023, allowing non-EU remote workers and freelancers to live in Spain while working for foreign companies. With a mix of vibrant cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, and Bilbao, a warm climate, and peaceful coastal retreats, Spain is high on everyone’s list!

Besides Italy, Spain, and Portugal, other popular EU countries where you can apply for a digital nomad visa include Greece, Croatia, Malta, and Hungary.  Many other countries offer long-stay visas, but not specifically a digital nomad or remote worker visa. Therefore, if you have a place in mind, find out their visa requirements.  If you are still unsure of the best country to live as a digital nomad in the EU, bookmark this page to read these articles later:

• Top Digital Nomad Visas in Europe 2025
• Best 6 EU-Based Digital Nomad Visas for 2025
• Europe’s Best Cities for Digital Nomads
• A Digital Nomad Visa Will Allow You to Live Rent Free on this Beautiful Italian Island

Why We Chose Italy

After you decide which country you plan to do your remote work in, visit their Consulate’s website to learn about the visa application process for Americans.  We chose Italy and began our process at the Italian Consulate in Los Angeles, on the Digital Nomad/Remote Workers Visa page. 

We chose to work remotely in Italy for several reasons:

1. We have lived in Italy before, for 4 months during the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino!
2. My grandparents on my father’s side immigrated to America from Southern Italy – I even wrote a book with my Dad about their journey! 
3. We love the Dolomite region and its easy access to skiing, hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking.
4. The Winter Olympics will be back in Italy in February 2026 in Milano-Cortina!
5. We are passionate about cycling and soccer (aka football) the two biggest sports in Italy.
6. The Italians take it slow and practice La Dolce Far Niente (The Sweetness of Doing Nothing) better than anyone else!

Rock climbing and mountaineering are some of our favorite activities, and the Alps and Dolomites are the birthplaces of these sports!

3. Digital Nomad Visa Application

Europe’s digital nomad visas are designed for Americans and other non-EU remote workers.  Once your visa application is approved, you can stay for up to a year in the ‘Schengen’ – meaning any country in the European Union.  In addition, most countries will let you renew your visa each year without needing to return to the U.S.

To apply for a digital nomad visa, you’ll need to begin the process in the U.S. and find the closest Consulate to where you live, and based on the EU country you’ll be applying to.  Each visa application process will be slightly different, but be prepared to gather a stack of documents.  I’m not kidding here.

Start to gather the following (we’ll dive more into some of these items below):

1. Identification: A valid passport that does not expire until well after your intended stay
2. Proof you live in the Consulate’s Jurisdiction: Driver’s license
3. A completed Visa Application & Passport Photo: Here’s the Italian National Visa Form
4. Prove you are a Highly Skilled Worker: Submit diplomas, transcripts, certifications, licenses first to the Education Office to get a Declaration of Value.
5. Proof of your Employment: contract from employer, pay stubs, invoices, business ownership
6. Proof that you Meet the Minimum Income Requirements: €2,500/mo per person, shown in personal bank statements
7. Proof of Accommodation: a 12-month rental contract, filed with the Italian Tax Authority
8. International Health Insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses
9. A Clean Criminal Record: fingerprints and background checks are done at the office
10. A Fiscal Code or Codice Fiscale
11. A Booked Flight to Your Destination: Get a refundable/changeable ticket
12. A Postage Paid Return Envelope (USPS Priority Mail) for them to mail your passport back to you once your visa is approved
13. Visa fees– a cashier’s check, cash or money order

The full description of everything you’ll need for an Italian digital nomad visa application can be found on the Digital Nomad/Remote Workers Visa page on the Italian Consulate in Los Angeles’ website.  Once you are close to having all of your documents in order, book a visa appointment.

Getting a Visa Appointment

Italy’s visa appointments can be booked through the Prenot@mi website, which literally means ‘book me’ or reserve me’ in Italian, and are VERY hard to get.  It is not uncommon to wait 6 weeks for an appointment!  I refreshed the Italian Consulate appointment website, Prenotami, at least a dozen times a day!  Try in the afternoons, between 2-3pm, as cancellations are often added at midnight Rome time.

Begin by creating an account for each person (even as a married couple, you will each need an appointment).  The Prenot@mi website also provides details on the application process and documents needed based on the type of visa you are applying for: Digital Nomad Visa, Elective Residency Visa, etc.

Keep in mind, each country will have a different process to schedule a visa appointment.  Below are tips specifically for the Italian Consulate:

• Wait time for visa appointments on Prenot@mi is 4-6 weeks
• At 3:00 p.m. Rome time (ECT) cancellations and new booking days/times open
• Log in a few minutes before 3pm ECT and have your documents ready
• Refresh the page repeatedly!

Persistence pays off when you are attempting to get an appointment at the Italian Consulate through the Prenot@mi website.  If you don’t see any appointments right away, keep checking daily.  The Consulate only takes visa appointments on certain days and for a very limited amount of time.  Cancellations can open brief windows of opportunity!

We began our application process in January, and after four appointments at the Italian Consulate, we finally received our 1-year visas in May.  Expect an intense process.  Lots of questions about your intent and financial capacity to sustain yourself.  Bring every single document you think you may need!

Pro tip: Make a copy of your visa application packet BEFORE you submit it.  You will often need to resubmit the same documents for your residency permit.  For Italy, you must apply for the Permesso di Soggiorno, or residency permit, within 8 days of arriving in Italy.

Rules for visa applications can change, so try to be patient and don’t expect things to move fast.  I found out the hard way at my first visa appointment, and I wrote this blog to help others prepare.  While you can use an Italian immigration attorney or someone very familiar with the process for your particular country to complete the application, you will still need to secure an appointment.  Hiring an immigration lawyer certainly does not guarantee you will get approved, but it might save you some time and relieve some stress!

4. How to Find a Place to Live to Satisfy Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

To meet the Italian Consulate’s visa application requirements, you must provide proof of long-term accommodation.  In addition, it must cover the entire length of your visa, the rental contract must be exactly like the example featured on their website, and it must be registered with the Italian Tax Authority- the Agenzia della Entrate.  Many other digital nomad EU visa applications will have the same requirement, and this is often the most challenging part of your visa application process.  Crashing on a friend’s couch will not suffice.

Start browsing long-term rental websites that list homes and apartments available for more than 30 days in the country you’d like to relocate to.  Here are a few rental listing websites we’ve been using for Italy.  In addition, some of these websites have listings or separate websites for other countries.

Websites for Long-term Rentals in Italy:

• Immobiliare.it
• Casa.it
• Idealista.it
• Spotahome
• Tuttocasa.it
• Casadaprivato.it

Using VRBO or Airbnb to Find a Long-Term Rental

While you can use VRBO or Airbnb, you will need to transition to a long-term lease.  In addition, the Italian Consulate will not accept say a 3-month rental booking on Airbnb, which would not cover your full visa stay and is not registered with the Italian Tax Authority- Agenzia della Entrate.

Keep in mind, while Airbnb or VRBO might seem to be the easiest, most secure option, you are subject to Airbnb’s fees and the higher short-term rental rates.  For example, we found a beautiful 2-bedroom, 1-bath in Cortina d’Ampezzo listed on Idealista.it for €3,500/month, yet on Airbnb it was €6,000/month!!

Lastly, when you search for a rental for a month or longer on Airbnb or VRBO, your search will not yield a lot of properties.  We found many owners list short-term stays only, hence why they use Airbnb!

Working With a Real Estate Agent or Real Estate Agency

You might also feel more comfortable working directly with a real estate ‘Immobiliare’ agent.  We began by building a list of real estate agents throughout the Dolomite region.  In addition, we found it very helpful that most real estate agencies will list properties for sale and for rent on their websites.  This is great if you are looking to develop a relationship with an agent for a potential home purchase later down the road!

Things to Consider During Your Long-Term Rental Search

We started using Immobiliare and Idealista to find an apartment that satisfies our Italian digital nomad visa application.  Once you begin using Immobiliare and Idealista, you can download the app to your phone, set up a profile, start your search, save your favorites, and use their chat/message tools to communicate with property managers.

We recommend you view properties in Google Maps, and ensure they meet your requirements for things like walkability to the city center, transportation, etc.  In addition, ensure the property description matches the photos, and they can offer you a monthly or annual rental contract.

You will notice some of the listings are managed by private individuals, and others by real estate agents.  Regardless of who you’re interacting with, keep the conversation light, do not exchange any personal information other than what you are looking for in an apartment or home, and do not make any payments or bank transfers outside the app. 

In addition, we’ve noticed some people will ask you to switch over to WhatsApp to continue the conversation.  Again, be very careful with the information you provide, and do not send any bank or credit card information!

Here are a few more steps to consider before you agree to a long-term rental contract and make a deposit:

• Can you hop on a video call, get to know the property owner, and ask questions?
• Is wifi included in the price? How about heat, A/C, and electricity?
• Ensure there is language in the rental contract about their cancellation policy!
• How will you pay the rental deposit? Can you use PayPal, a credit card, or your bank?

Cities like Barcelona and Madrid are great home bases for digital nomads who want to explore Spain. We traveled to Montserrat from Barcelona to visit the monasteries, hike, and rock climb!

5. Getting International Health Insurance for a Digital Nomad Visa

An Italian digital nomad visa application requires you to have international health insurance.  International health insurance provides ongoing healthcare coverage rather than just trip interruption coverage and emergency care.

International health insurance is also different than your current U.S. healthcare policy, which often does not cover you outside the U.S.  Yes, you may be able to submit your receipts to get reimbursement, but the Italian Consulate will not accept a copy of your health insurance card as proper insurance coverage.

The number one reason for the denial of an Italian digital nomad visa application is the lack of appropriate health insurance.  Therefore, here are the top 5 International Health Insurance providers:

1. Cigna Global – Comprehensive international health plans tailored for expats.
2. SafetyWing – Affordable and designed for digital nomads, limited coverage.  Safety Wing was not accepted by the Italian Consulate in Los Angeles. 
3. Allianz Care – Flexible plans covering outpatient and emergency services only.
4. AXA Global Healthcare– Comprehensive coverage, expensive, but you can set a high deductible to keep monthly payments low.  This is the health insurance we decided to use.
5. GeoBlue by Blue Shield– Good coverage options, backed by a familiar brand, but they require you to keep your US Health insurance!

We have also read that once you have a residency permit, a Permesso di Soggiorno, you can opt into Italy’s national healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale, or SSN) for a fee.  We’ll review getting a residency permit next!

If you are choosing to live in a smaller town, like one of those along the Costa Brava in Spain, read our blog! Spain’s ‘Wild Coast’ is a perfect place for cyclists and those who love the seaside!

6. Visa Approval Process: Be Patient and Persistent!

The digital nomad visa application process can take anywhere from 30-120 days, so start the process early!!  We learned that you may not meet all their requirements during your first appointment and will need to submit additional documentation at a follow-up appointment. Or three follow-up appointments!  The Italian Digital Nomad Visa is new, and a woman at the Italian Consulate in Los Angeles mentioned they had only processed 10 applications in 2024- and only 6 of them were approved!

Be patient with the process, and stay focused.  keep refreshing the Prenotami website for appointments! We had 3 appointments over 4 months before our visas were approved.  Lots of paperwork and sleepless nights, but when the lady at the Consulate finally approved us, I cried!  It felt simply amazing after all the work we’d done.

Often they will collect your passport at your final appointment, and mail it back to you with the visa stamped inside.  You are then ready to take the next step!

7. Getting a Residency Permit: Permesso di Soggiorno, in Italy

Within 8 days of arriving in Italy, you must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (residency permit) at the Questura or local police station.  Pick up an application packet at the Poste Italiane (post office) nearest you, and you will submit almost everything you submitted during your visa application process. Therefore, it might be a good idea to make an extra copy of your full visa application packet before you turn it in at the Consulate! 

Each EU country will be different, but almost all will require you that you apply for temporary or permanent residency once you arrive.  A Permesso di Soggiorno is required in Italy for all long-term stays.  It also gives you access to public services.  Once you submit the application for your Permesso di Soggiorno, it can often take months.  You’ll be able to check your application status on the Questura’s website.  But good news, you can renew your visa/Permesso di Soggiorno in Italy.  You will not need to return to the U.S. and go through the whole visa application process again!  Each EU country is different, so be sure to check the requirements for extending your stay.

We lived in Athens during the 2004 Summer Olympics and found it easy to get around, pick up a bit of the language, and eat all the Greek food we wanted!

8. Buying or Renting a Car as a Digital Nomad

If you haven’t spent much time in Europe, you’ll learn quickly that public transportation is excellent in most cities.  Especially when compared to the U.S. transportation infrastructure.  There are high-speed trains, buses, and in our case in the Dolomites, ski lifts, and cable cars that allow you to move between different towns!  A car isn’t necessary unless you’re in a small town or rural area.

If you plan to drive while living abroad, you can use your home country’s license with an International Driving Permit (IDP).  Plan to stay longer and renew your digital nomad visa after one year?  Take the country’s driving test to avoid penalties!

If you want to buy a car, consult your Consulate’s website for more information.  For Italy, you need a residency permit, the Permesso di Soggiorno, and an Italian tax code, the Codice Fiscale, to purchase a vehicle.

9. Setting Up a Bank Account

To receive payments, pay rent, and manage finances while in the EU, you’ll most likely need a local bank account.  The best options in Italy include traditional banks like UniCredit and Intesa Sanpaolo, which require in-person visits and more paperwork.

However, online banks like N26, Wise, and Revolut are easier for non-residents and digital nomads.  In addition, Citibank, Bank of America, and Chase have locations in Milan and Rome, as well as throughout Europe!

Living in a larger city like Athens, Milan, or Rome makes it easier to get around without a car, and find banks, post offices, and many other services you’ll need to establish residency and begin work.

10. Getting a SIM Card and Receiving Mail as a Digital Nomad

If you want to get a local phone number, get a SIM card when you arrive.  Italian SIM card providers include:

• TIM (best coverage)
• Vodafone (good for international calling)
• Iliad (budget-friendly, no contracts)

In addition, your current phone, as long as it’s unlocked from your carrier, may have an eSim.  This makes things even easier as you can buy an eSim from Nomad or SimOptions, to name a few, and simply toggle between both SIM ‘cards’ on your same phone.

You can also plan to use WhatsApp to communicate with friends and family, use Google Meet for work calls, and you might also consider getting a VPN- a virtual private network.  We use Express VPN.

To receive mail and packages while living abroad, you’ll likely need to set up a P.O. Box.  In Italy, you can rent a Casella Postale (PO Box) at Poste Italiane.  You can also ask your property manager if packages and mail can be sent to your new address, and then establish this as your address at the local post office.

11. Understanding Taxes and Legal Responsibilities While on a Digital Nomad Visa

Ask your tax advisor what you are legally responsible for while working remotely in the EU.  For example, if you stay in Italy for more than 183 days per year, you become a tax resident and must pay taxes on worldwide income.  That means you are taxed on the income you make from your U.S. clients while abroad.  In addition, you will pay taxes on any Italy-sourced income from local businesses you may begin to work with in Italy.  Italy’s tax rate is higher than the U.S., averaging 23-43%! 

However, Italy offers tax incentives for new residents, highly skilled workers, or high-net-worth individuals who relocate to Italy.  In addition, if you are already paying taxes on your income in America, you may be exempt due to their double taxation treaties.  Learn more on the Agencia de Entrate (Italian Tax Authority) website.

Before you depart, consult a tax expert to optimize your tax situation and ensure compliance while on a digital nomad visa.

Final Thoughts on Digital Nomad Visas and Working Remotely in Europe

Being a digital nomad in Europe can allow you to explore beautiful cities, idyllic countryside hamlets, and enjoy world-class cuisine.  However, the visa application process is long, it’s hard, and you should not assume you will get approved simply because you’re a remote worker or freelancer.  If it were that easy, everyone would do it.

Yet whether you settle in historic Florence, vibrant Lisbon, or the peaceful countryside near Madrid, working abroad as a digital nomad can be both professionally rewarding and personally enriching.  If you’re searching for more blogs on other destinations that might make a great home for a digital nomad, here are a few places we love:

• Traveling to Sayulita, Riveria Nayarit, Mexico
• Spain’s Costa Brava, the Wild Coast north of Barcelona
• Adventure Travel in Costa Rica

Thanks for reading, Buona fortuna, and more to come!

-Meredith Caccese McConvill, Top Rope Media

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