Two current fiscal incentives on offer to live and work in the historic Italian cities of Mantua and Rieti.

Italy stands to become an attractive living destination for professionals capable of working remotely and with the right to work in Italy. As previously discussed, Italy's lower cost of living allows for income arbitrage, enticing those seeking a better work-life balance and the opportunity to stretch their earnings further. Such circumstances are not fully available for all “digital nomads”as legislation for digital nomad work visas for extra-EU citizens has yet to be approved.

Interesting living opportunities in Italy abound, however, for EU citizens working remotely, who already have if you already have the legal right to work remotely in Italy as a EU member state. Two Italian cities in Northern and Central Italy, for example are offering rent subsidies for new coming residents.

Let’s take a closer look at the two programs on offer:

Mantova

Mantova (Mantua), a noted Renaissance city of around 50,000 residents located in Italy's Lombardy region, is offering financial perks for individuals looking to relocate. In an effort to boost its population, the city's municipality has announced an incentive program that allows new residents to get paid for living in Mantova. The city will provide contribution of 150 euros for up to six months who choose to move to the city.

To facilitate the influx of inhabitants, the local council has allocated a substantial amount of 400,000 euros (split into two installments of 200,000 euros each) to finance one hundred applications annually. The aim is not only to attract new residents but also to promote the renovation of vacant houses that often go neglected by their owners. Ideal residents for the program are those who earn around 1200-1500 euros monthly, making it ideal for writers or creatives who earn modest incomes remotely.

Such a program dovetails renewed optimism about the city’s long term economic prospects. Several notable companies, such as Adidas, Corneliani, Opto Engineering, and MyNet have been noted as looking to expand operations in Mantova, and attract younger hires, particularly in the logistics sector. Where younger professionals settle, cities tend to flourish. With its incentive program Mantova is poised to become a dynamic living destination for young professionals from around the EU, as a beautiful, historic city that is comparatively affordable to more well-known cities.

For more information on Mantova’s program and how to apply, read about the city’s program below. Deadlines for presenting applications have passed for this year, however there may be the possibility for submitting a new application for the upcoming year.

City of Mantova, information and application for subsidised housing 2023

Further information on Mantova’s history and cultural treasures can be found on Google Arts and Culture.

Rieti

Rieti is another mid-sized city in Italy offering rental rebates for newcoming professionals who plan to stay and work for several months. Located in the region of Lazio in Central Italy, about 80 kilometers from Rome, the city is an attractive locale for those who want to avoid the chaos of the Italian capital, and seek the balance between convenience of a city with access nature nearby (the city is located in a valley near the Appenine Mountains).

Rieti’s current " Smart Village" program offers rental vouchers"to workers opting to relocate and work remotely full time. Upon approval, a rental voucher, not exceeding six months, covers 50% of rental costs (apartment or house) with a maximum monthly contribution of €200. To qualify for the voucher, applicants must guarantee their presence in Rieti for at least three months and work remotely. The contribution will be paid after tenants provide documented proof of rent payment, certified by the owner.

To apply, interested individuals must submit employment verification along with an identity card to the office of the Municipality. Further details on Rieti’s program can be obtained via their Municipality website here.

City of Rieti, information and application for “Smart Village program”

Are you interested in transferring to Italy as an EU citizen, but unfamiliar with the logistical and bureaucratic steps involved?

Feel free to contact us below for an overview of the transfer process and how we can assist you.