Once you’ve made the decision to apply for a Digital Nomad Visa, the next question isn’t “can I move?”—it’s “how do I live once I’m there?” And renting an apartment is at the heart of that reality. Good news: yes, you can absolutely rent an apartment with a Digital Nomad Visa. In fact, in many countries, proof of accommodation is required as part of the visa application process.
But here’s where things get interesting: not all leases are created equal, and not every landlord understands what a digital nomad is—let alone what kind of documents they’ll accept from you. Depending on where you’re going, navigating the local rental market can either be smooth sailing or a bureaucratic maze. Italy, for example, is one of the most desirable destinations for digital nomads right now, and it comes with its own nuances when it comes to rental contracts, legal registration, and visa compliance.
Why your lease agreement matters more than you think
When you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa, your host country wants to see that you’re not just passing through—they want proof that you plan to settle in responsibly. That’s why they’ll often ask for:
- A valid rental contract or property lease in your name
- Proof that the accommodation meets legal housing standards
- The contract’s duration (ideally matching your visa period)
- Your landlord’s contact details or registration info
For Italy specifically, providing a registered lease agreement (contratto registrato) is a crucial part of the application. Many digital nomads trip up here by submitting Airbnb bookings or informal sublets that don’t meet the legal threshold. That can cause delays—or even rejections.
And once you’re in? A legally valid rental contract can unlock access to other essentials: local tax IDs, residency registration, health coverage, and even setting up a bank account. In other words: renting the right way doesn’t just give you a place to live—it sets up your whole life abroad.
Don’t gamble with the paperwork: get help from the start
Yes, you can rent an apartment with a Digital Nomad Visa. But doing it right requires more than a quick search on a booking app. It’s about understanding local law, negotiating the right contract, and ensuring the lease fits your visa requirements.
This is exactly where most aspiring nomads get stuck. You might find the perfect place, only to discover the lease can’t be registered. Or worse—you submit the wrong document and find your visa stalled for months.
That’s why our team offers end-to-end support, including help finding verified rentals that meet Digital Nomad Visa criteria. We work directly with trusted agents and landlords in Italy who understand what digital nomads need—and how to structure contracts accordingly. Whether you’re looking for a setup in Milan or a rental in Venice, we’ll make sure it aligns with both your lifestyle and your paperwork.
Let’s make your move real
You’re not just dreaming about living abroad anymore—you’re getting serious. And finding the right place to live is one of the biggest steps toward turning your plans into reality.
Get in touch with our team today, and we’ll help you navigate the rental market, understand exactly what kind of lease you need, and connect you with accommodation options that are 100% visa-compliant.
Click here to get in touch and secure your Italian home base:
No guesswork. No stress. Just a clear path to the life you’re ready to build.
