Visas Denied.
The Unanticipated Visa Challenge on the Path to La Dolce Vita
Last week, armed with a plethora of documents, we flew to Miami eagerly anticipating the final step in our year-long planning process – obtaining visas. However, the consulate's requirement for an Elective Resident Visa, catering to those fully retired with a specific passive income criterion, caught us off guard. Despite having proof of passive income, my husband's W2 income from the previous year led to a heartbreaking denial.
Finding Humor in the Situation: At this point, all we can do is laugh. Also, I choose to believe that there's a divine plan guiding our journey, leading us towards a different and perhaps even more fulfilling experience. Mike isn’t fully convinced and is just trying not to cry.
Next Steps - Italy Bound: With the puppy flight booked and a steadfast determination to make Italy our temporary home, we will land there on May 22nd, adhering strictly to the maximum allowed Schengen days – 90.
Exploring Options: Post-denial, two options have emerged on our horizon:
UK Sojourn: Driving to the UK, specifically England, seems to be a viable option. We would spend 90 days there before returning to Italy, adhering to the 90-90-90 cycle.
Digital Nomad Visa in Croatia: Alternatively, we are exploring the possibility of obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa in Croatia. Having visited Croatia and fallen in love with its beauty, this option seems promising but comes with its own set of rules. We engaged with "Expats in Croatia," a service that provided us with valuable insights and a 30-minute consultation with a Croatian immigration lawyer. Our aim is to clarify eligibility, the timeframe for returning to Italy, and the limitations on visiting other Schengen countries.
Seeking Clear Answers: As we navigate through this process, we've encountered uncertainties about the duration of stay and return intervals. A forthcoming conversation with the immigration lawyer will, hopefully, shed light on these intricacies.
Conclusion: Our journey, though marked by unexpected twists, continues to unfold. We remain optimistic, trusting that every setback is a setup for a greater comeback. Stay tuned as we navigate through these challenges and share the next chapter in our year-long adventure.