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Pakistani freelancers, IT experts, and remote workers now have a new pathway to live and work in Europe as Italy launches its Digital Nomad Visa. Starting from March 2022, this visa allows non-EU citizens, including Pakistanis, to legally reside in Italy while continuing online work for overseas clients or employers.
The initiative is designed for highly skilled professionals in fields such as information technology, freelancing, e-commerce, and digital services. Applicants must demonstrate at least a bachelor’s degree, six months of relevant experience, and an annual income of €28,000 (approximately PKR 8.5 million). In addition, they need health insurance worth €30,000, a clean criminal record, and proof of employment or freelancing contracts.
Unlike a tourist visa, which limits Pakistani citizens to 90 days in the Schengen zone, the Italy Remote Work Visa grants a renewable one-year residence permit. Holders can travel freely to 26 Schengen countries, access Italy’s healthcare system, open a bank account, and bring their spouse and minor children under family reunification rules.
Applicants from Pakistan must submit documents through the Italian Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulate in Karachi. Required documents include a valid passport, proof of income, tax returns from Pakistan’s FBR, an HEC-certified degree, a police clearance certificate, health insurance, and a motivation letter. The application fee is €116 (around PKR 35,000), with a processing time of 30–60 days.
Read More: Top countries offering the best Digital Nomad Visas in 2025
Experts say the visa could benefit Pakistan’s growing remote workforce, especially in major IT hubs like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. For Pakistani families, the visa offers both educational opportunities and a higher standard of living in Europe.
