Renew Your Visa & Permesso in Italy: What It Is and How to Get It
The Renew Your Visa & Permesso is an essential part of settling in Italy as a foreigner. Whether you are a student, worker, or relocating with family, understanding this step will save you time and frustration. It is a moderately involved process that requires 7 documents. It typically costs €56.29 (marca da bollo €16 + electronic card €40.29). You should plan for this 60 days before permit expiration.
What is Renew Your Visa & Permesso?
After 1 year, renew your Digital Nomad permit at the Questura. You must prove you still meet the original requirements: €28,000+ net income, remote work with foreign clients, and valid health insurance (€30,000+ Schengen coverage). Start the renewal 60 days before expiry.
To complete this step, you will need to gather 7 documents and follow a specific procedure. The process involves several steps but is manageable with proper preparation. The associated cost is €56.29 (marca da bollo €16 + electronic card €40.29).
Based on the experience of thousands of foreigners who have gone through this process, there are several practical tips that can make your experience smoother. Being well-prepared before your appointment and having all documents in order are consistently the most important factors for success.
Who needs it?
This step is part of the "Digital Nomad" journey. Depending on your nationality (EU vs. non-EU), your specific visa type, and your city of residence, the exact requirements and timeline may vary.
Applicable visa and permit types
- All non-EU citizens staying more than 90 days
- Workers (employed and self-employed)
- Students
- Family members of non-EU residents
- Digital Nomads
What you'll need
You will need 7 documents to complete this step. Below is an overview of each one.
Current permesso di soggiorno (digital nomad)
Your existing Digital Nomad residence permit card. You need the original to prove your current legal status when applying for renewal.
Updated income proof (12 months bank statements showing €28,000+ net)
12 months of recent bank statements proving you still earn at least €28,000 net per year. Your income must remain above the threshold for renewal.
Updated remote work contract or client contracts
Current versions of your employment contract or freelance client agreements, proving you are still doing remote work with foreign clients/employers.
Updated health insurance policy (min €30,000 Schengen coverage, valid for another year)
A renewed health insurance policy with at least €30,000 Schengen coverage valid for another full year. Even a brief gap in coverage can cause renewal rejection.
Proof of continued Italian accommodation
Evidence that you still have a place to live in Italy — typically a renewed or ongoing rental contract.
Passport (must be valid for full renewal period)
Your passport, which must remain valid for the entire duration of the renewed permit. If it expires during the renewal period, you must renew it first.
4 passport photos
Recent biometric passport-style photos for the renewal application.
Cost: €5-10
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Sign up freeThe process
Here is a high-level overview of the steps involved in completing this process.
- 1
Gather all required documents (listed below).
- 2
Visit the relevant office. Common offices involved: Already have, Employer or clients, Insurance provider.
- 3
Submit your application and any required fees.
- 4
Wait for processing. Times vary by region (see estimated wait times below).
- 5
Important: remember the deadline — 60 days before permit expiration.
How long does it take?
Processing times vary significantly depending on your region. Here are the estimated wait times:
North
2-4 months for renewed permit card
Center
2-5 months for renewed permit card
South
1-3 months for renewed permit card
The Questura receipt serves as temporary authorization during processing.
Common mistakes to avoid
Many foreigners run into the same issues when completing this step. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Starting renewal less than 60 days before expiry — Questura processing takes time
- Letting health insurance lapse — even a gap of a few days can trigger a rejection
- Not updating income documentation — if your income dropped below €28,000 net, renewal can be denied
- Changing from remote work to local Italian employment without updating your permit type
- Forgetting to renew at the Questura (not the Post Office) — same as the initial application
Frequently asked questions
How long can I renew the DN permit?
The DN visa is initially for 1 year and can be renewed. The total duration depends on continued eligibility and policy developments. Consult the Questura for the latest renewal rules.
What if my income dropped below €28,000?
Renewal may be denied if your income dropped below the threshold. If it's a temporary dip, provide documentation explaining the situation and showing projected income. Consult an immigration lawyer.
Can I switch from DN visa to a work visa?
Yes, but it requires a formal conversion (conversione) at the Questura. If you start working for Italian clients, you need a proper work permit. Consult an immigration lawyer for the conversion process.
Official sources
All information on this page has been verified against official Italian government sources. Always double-check with the relevant office for the most current requirements.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently. Always verify with official sources.