Yes, holders of the Italy Digital Nomad Visa can sponsor immediate family members, such as a spouse and children under 18, to join them in Italy.
The Italy Digital Nomad Visa allows visa holders to bring their immediate family members to Italy through a family reunification process. This provision ensures that digital nomads can maintain family unity while residing in Italy. Below are the key details regarding sponsorship under this visa:
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Eligible Family Members:
- Spouse: The visa holder's legally married spouse is eligible for sponsorship.
- Children Under 18: Biological or legally adopted children under the age of 18 can be sponsored.
- Spouse's Children: Children from a spouse's previous relationship, provided there is consent from the other parent, are also eligible.
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Sponsorship Process:
- Initiation in Italy: The sponsorship process begins in Italy at the local Questura (provincial police headquarters) where the digital nomad or remote worker applied for their residency permit (Permesso di Soggiorno).
- Required Documentation: Applicants must provide proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates), adequate financial means to support family members, suitable accommodation, and health insurance coverage for each family member.
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Limitations:
- Children Over 18: As of 2024, digital nomads or remote workers cannot sponsor children over 18 or parents to join them in Italy, even if these individuals are dependent on them.
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Residence Permit for Family Members:
- Application Timeline: Once in Italy, family members must apply for their own residence permits within eight days of arrival.
- Validity: The residence permits for family members are linked to the validity of the primary visa holder's permit.
Conclusion:
Holders of the Italy Digital Nomad Visa can sponsor their spouse and children under 18 to join them in Italy through a family reunification process initiated at the local Questura. This provision supports family unity during the visa holder's stay in Italy.