How Italy’s New Family Reunification Rules Impact Digital Nomad and Visa Applicants
...and what you can do about it
If you’re considering applying for a Digital Nomad Visa in Italy, there’s an important factor you need to consider before making your move: how to bring your family with you. Recent changes to Italy’s family reunification rules have added some challenges to the process, and it’s critical to understand how these updates could impact your plans.
The Italian government has introduced a new requirement for visa holders: two years of continuous legal residence in Italy before you can apply to bring family members over. While this might sound discouraging at first, there are exceptions and strategies that can help you work around these restrictions.
Let’s dive into what’s changed and what you can do to ensure your family can join you in Italy.
What’s Changed in Family Reunification Rules?
Family reunification allows visa holders to bring eligible family members—spouses, children, or dependent parents—to Italy. In the past, many families used the family cohesion process (coesione familiare), where family members arrived with the primary visa holder and applied for residence permits together after entering Italy.
Under the new rules, visa holders must now live in Italy for two continuous years with a valid residence permit before applying for family reunification (ricongiungimento familiare). This waiting period applies to most visa holders, including those with Digital Nomad and student visas.
For many, this poses a significant challenge. Relocating to a new country without your spouse or children for two years can be difficult, and this change has created uncertainty for those planning to move to Italy.
Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule
The good news is that there are exceptions to this waiting period, depending on your visa type and circumstances.
Accompanying Family Members
For those who haven’t yet moved to Italy, there’s an option to bring your family with you right from the start. Here’s how it works:
You’ll need to apply for a nulla osta (entry clearance) for your family members before moving to Italy.
This process requires a delegate in Italy (authorized with a notarized power of attorney) to handle the application on your behalf.
Once the entry clearance is approved, your family can apply for family visas at the Italian consulate in their home country and travel with you to Italy.
While this process can take several months to complete, it’s a more feasible option than waiting two years after your move.
Investor Visa Holders
If you’re applying for an investor visa, the two-year waiting period typically does not apply. Your family members can join you right away, as part of Italy’s initiative to attract high-net-worth individuals and their families. However, some Questura offices are now requiring the Accompanying Family Visa as part of the process. The good news is that the waiting time for this visa will be fast-tracked. You should anticipate this new step adding approximately 30 to 60 days after the Investor Visa has been issued.
You’ve Got Options
If you’re applying for a Digital Nomad or student visa, the new rules introduce extra hurdles, but there are still ways to proceed.
Family Cohesion (On-Site Family Reunion)
This process has been widely used in the past. Family members enter Italy on a tourist visa and apply for residence permits directly without needing to leave the country. However, under the new rules, this approach might face pushback from local immigration offices (Questura) or require additional documentation.
The success of this process may depend on the specific region or office handling your application, as practices can vary widely across Italy.
Family Reunification After Two Years
If accompanying your family upfront isn’t an option, the standard route involves applying for family reunification after two years of continuous legal residence. While this is not ideal for those looking to relocate with their loved ones immediately, it’s the fallback option if other strategies don’t work out.
What Documents Will You Need?
Regardless of the process you choose, preparing your documentation thoroughly is essential. Key documents include:
Nulla osta: The entry clearance issued by Italian immigration authorities.
Proof of relationship: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, and other legal documents, which must be translated into Italian and legalized (apostille).
Proof of income: Financial stability requirements vary depending on your visa, but you’ll generally need to show an annual income of at least €5,830.76, plus an additional 50% for each family member.
Accommodation documents: Proof of adequate housing that meets Italy’s health and safety standards.
For Digital Nomads and students, meeting these requirements can feel like a hurdle, especially when dealing with limited income or temporary housing. However, with proper planning and assistance, these challenges can be managed.
How to Navigate Italy’s Bureaucracy
Italy’s immigration system is known for its complexities and discretion, and the new rules add an extra layer of uncertainty. That said, with the right guidance and preparation, you can successfully navigate the process.
Here are some tips to help:
Start Early: If you’re considering moving to Italy, start planning for your family’s visas as early as possible. Applying for accompanying family members before you move can save significant time and stress later.
Seek Professional Help: Whether it’s working with a delegate in Italy or an experienced immigration lawyer, having expert support can make the difference between a smooth application and endless delays.
Stay Organized: Immigration paperwork can be overwhelming. Keep track of deadlines, ensure your documents are complete and accurate, and don’t leave anything to the last minute.
The Bigger Picture: Why Family Reunification Matters
At its core, family reunification is about more than meeting bureaucratic requirements—it’s about keeping families together. Moving to a new country is a significant transition, and having your loved ones by your side can make all the difference in building a successful life abroad.
While these changes may feel like a setback, remember that the system is evolving. Immigration professionals across Italy, including our legal team, are advocating for clarity and improvements to these rules.
If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, reach out to us. We can help guide you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you have the tools to make your dream of living in Italy a reality—with your family right there with you.
For visa assistance visit us at Smart Move Italy
Your Options at a Glance
If you’re applying for a Digital Nomad, student, or investor visa, here are your current choices:
Accompanying Family Members: Apply for a family visa before your move and bring your family with you.
Family Cohesion: Have your family enter on a tourist visa and apply for residence permits in Italy (though this process is now less certain).
Family Reunification: Wait two years and apply once you’ve met the residency requirement.