How to Move to Italy: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expats
If you’re dreaming of living in the heart of Europe, this guide will show you how to move to Italy. From visas to housing and settling in, we’ll cover the key steps and what to expect. Moving to Italy is an exciting adventure, whether you’re retiring, working, or just looking for a change of pace. Here’s everything you need to know about how to move to Italy.
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Step 1: Research Visa Options
After Brexit, UK nationals are now non-EU citizens and need a visa for stays over 90 days. Italy offers various visas for different purposes:
- Work Visa: Available if you have a job offer in Italy, which requires your employer to sponsor a work permit.
- Elective Residence Visa: Popular among retirees, this visa is for those who can financially support themselves without working in Italy.
- Student Visa: For students enrolled in an Italian institution.
- Self-Employment Visa: For freelancers or business owners meeting specific financial requirements.
For full visa requirements and applications, check out the official Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs site for the most current information.
Step 2: Secure Housing Before Moving
Finding a place to live is one of the most important aspects of how to move to Italy. While it’s possible to rent short-term while you search in person, many expats find it helpful to secure housing beforehand.
- Renting in Italy: Rental prices vary depending on the city. Rome and Milan are more expensive, while smaller towns in Tuscany or Umbria offer affordable options. Websites like Idealista and Immobiliare can help you compare rental options across Italy.
- Buying Property: Italy has attractive real estate for buyers, especially in rural areas. However, buying requires navigating Italian property laws, so it’s advisable to work with a real estate agent.
Step 3: Apply for a Residence Permit
Once you arrive in Italy, anyone planning to stay over 90 days must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit). You’ll need to apply at the local police station (Questura) within eight days of arriving. Essential documents for the permit application typically include:
- Your passport with visa
- Proof of income or financial support
- Health insurance proof
- Housing confirmation
The Italian government provides a detailed guide on residence permits to help you understand the requirements and process.
Step 4: Register with the AIRE (for UK Nationals)
UK nationals moving to Italy are advised to register with the AIRE (Anagrafe degli Italiani Residenti all’Estero), Italy’s registry for foreign residents. This process ensures that you remain eligible for healthcare, voting, and other essential services in Italy. It’s especially crucial for those staying long-term or permanently.
You can find more information on how to register with AIRE through the Italian consulate website in London.
Step 5: Open a Bank Account
Opening an Italian bank account is an essential step in how to move to Italy as it simplifies payments for rent, utilities, and daily expenses. To open an account, you’ll need to provide:
- A valid passport
- Tax identification number (Codice Fiscale)
- Proof of residence or address in Italy
Most banks have helpful information in English, and popular banks for expats include UniCredit and Intesa Sanpaolo. For day-to-day banking, N26 and Revolut are widely used digital banks that provide mobile-friendly banking in multiple currencies, ideal for newcomers.
Step 6: Arrange Healthcare Coverage
Italy’s healthcare system is public, and as a legal resident, you’ll have access to it. To qualify for public healthcare, you need a Permesso di Soggiorno. However, some expats opt for private healthcare as well, which can cover additional services or faster treatment.
If you’re planning to rely on public healthcare, register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) at your local health authority (ASL). This will provide you with a Tessera Sanitaria (healthcard) to access services. More details on how to move to Italy and register with the SSN can be found on Italy’s Ministry of Health website.
Step 7: Find Work or Set Up a Business
If you’re moving for work, ensure you’ve secured the right visa. For those planning to start a business, Italy welcomes entrepreneurs, though it requires a specific business plan, financial documentation, and sometimes, approval from local authorities.
The Italian job market can be competitive, and language skills are crucial for most roles. However, sectors such as tourism, education, and digital tech have growing demand for English speakers. Platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor can be helpful for job hunting, as well as Italy-focused sites like InfoJobs and Monster Italy.
Step 8: Embrace Italian Culture and Build a Social Life
Understanding Italian culture is key to settling in. Italians are known for their warmth and emphasis on social life. Joining expat groups, taking Italian language classes, and attending local events are great ways to make friends and feel more at home.
There are many expat communities across Italy, especially in cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence. Platforms like Internations and local Facebook groups can connect you with other expats who know how to move to Italy and can offer insider advice.
Real-Life Experiences from British Expats in Italy
Many who have figured out how to move to Italy have shared insights about their transition:
- Alice, a retiree from London, chose Tuscany for its beauty and quiet pace. Her advice? “Learning basic Italian helped me a lot in making friends with my neighbors and feeling like part of the community.”
- Tom and Sarah, who relocated to Rome with their children, say that planning ahead made a huge difference. “We used Advance Moves to find a removal company, and it saved us both time and money. If you can, visit Italy beforehand to get a feel for neighborhoods.”
- James, a graphic designer in Milan, suggests securing a job before moving. “The job market is competitive, but there are good opportunities for English speakers in creative fields.”
Advance moves can save you time and money on removal costs.
Using the Advance Moves quick quote system can significantly save you time and money when moving house Internationally. Just click on the link for your instant online quote and then compare quotes from up to the 5 best removal companies already pre-selected to match your moving requirements. Get the best deals on international removals today.
Moving to Italy is an adventure that requires preparation, but it’s worth every effort for those drawn to Italian culture and lifestyle. From securing visas and housing to joining expat communities, each step is a key part of understanding how to move to Italy successfully.
For more information visit the Advance moves info page on Moving to Italy from UK. Advance moves also has a blog page full of useful tips on moving house overseas. Advance moves sponsors the supermotoland race team.