Moving to Italy is a dream for many, thanks to its pleasant climate, stunning natural landscapes and unparalleled cultural and culinary heritage. However, before you pack your bags and head off, there are a number of essential steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
In this article we show you what you need to do before going to Italy.
1. Check your residence rights
If you plan to stay in Italy for more than 90 days and do not have citizenship of a country that is part of the European Union, or Italian, you will need a visa.
The type of visa needed will depend on the reason for moving to the country, whether for studies, work, retirement or family reasons. Staying in Italy for more than 90 days without a valid visa can result in serious legal problems.
The visa must be requested at the embassy or consulate Italian in your home country before your trip. Remember that the process can take time, so it is recommended to start the procedures as soon as possible.
Additionally, after entering Italy, you will have eight days to request a residence permit (residence permit) at the local police station (Preccint).
2. Decide where you want to live
Choosing where to live in Italy largely depends on your personal needs and preferences.
If you like the hustle and bustle of a big city and are looking for a place with lots of English speakers, Milan, in the Lombardy region, or Rome, the Italian capital, can be good options.
However, these cities are also known for having a high cost of living. If you prefer tranquility and natural landscapes, Italy offers a variety of options, from rolling hills, forests, mountains, lakes to seaside locations. The important thing is to do detailed research to find the place that best suits your lifestyle.
3. Decide whether to rent or buy
This depends on your personal circumstances, but many people recommend renting for a period of time before buying a home in Italy.
Renting may be a more sensible choice, especially if you're unsure about your long-term plans or want to try out different regions before settling down permanently.
Furthermore, purchasing property in Italy may involve high taxes and charges, as well as strict requirements for theobtaining financing from foreigners.
It is worth remembering that finding a property to rent long-term in cities like Rome and Milan can be challenging due to high demand.
4. Consider your healthcare options before moving to Italy
If you are moving to Italy as a citizen of a non-EU country, it is highly recommended that you consider your health coverage options in advance, as having adequate coverage is one of the conditions for obtaining your residence permit.
Initially, many foreigners opt for a temporary private health plan while waiting for the issuance of the residence permit. Once you have it, you can enroll in the Italian National Health System (SNational Health Service, SSN) or continue with a private plan.
If you are eligible for mandatory registration (obligatory registration) In SSN, registration is free. Otherwise, voluntary registration requires payment of a fee, the minimum value of which has recently risen to €2.000.
5. Familiarize yourself with the Italian tax system
Under Italian law, anyone considered resident for tax purposes must declare and pay taxes in Italy.
You will be considered a tax resident in Italy if, for at least 183 days a year, you are registered with Registry office (civil registration) or have their habitual residence in the country.
As an Italian tax resident, you will be required to declare your global income, i.e. income generated not just in Italy, but anywhere in the world.
However, Italy has double taxation agreements with most countries including Brazil, the UK and the US, meaning that if you have already paid tax on your income in another country, you will not need to pay it again in Italy. but still must inform the Italian tax authorities.
6. Consider your banking situation
Opening an Italian bank account will be one of the first things you will need to do when moving to Italy.
Foreign bank accounts, especially outside the eurozone, may not be suitable for everyday tasks such as paying bills and taxes, receiving an Italian salary and taking out insurance, as many Italian authorities require an account with a number Italian IBAN.
Italy has a wide variety of banks, from traditional institutions to exclusively online banks, but a lack of clear information and a wide range of offers can make choosing the right option difficult.
A simpler option is to open a PostPay account, which offers a prepaid card and is sold by the Italian Post Office. The card can be used anywhere in Italy and the world, on the internet and at the Italian post office, through the circuit Postamat.
7. Will you be able to use your driving license in Italy?
Outside of large cities and popular tourist destinations, public transport in Italy can be quite limited, especially in rural areas.
If you plan to live in the country, you will probably need a car and, of course, a valid driver's license.
If you have a driving license issued by another EU country, you can continue to use it in Italy without needing to exchange it, although it is recommended to exchange it (which will be a relatively simple process).
If your driving license was issued outside the EU, you can drive in Italy for one year after obtaining residency.
After this period, it will be necessary exchange your wallet for an Italian one or take the driving test to obtain an Italian license.
8. Try to learn Italian
Although it is possible to get by in some areas without speaking Italian, having a basic knowledge of the language will help a lot in carrying out various bureaucratic tasks, socializing and understanding the local culture.
Learning Italian — before moving to Italy — will not only make your everyday life easier, it will also allow you to integrate deeper into Italian society.
9. Read about local culture and lifestyle
Moving to a new country means coming into contact with new, often surprising, habits and traditions.
Learning about some local customs before moving can save you some culture shock.
There are books and online resources that offer useful insight into customs in Italy. Additionally, exploring cultural guides and understanding the more intriguing aspects of Italian life, such as local superstitions and long summer holidays, can make your transition smoother and more enriching.
By following these steps, you will be better prepared to start your new life in Italy, enjoying everything this wonderful country has to offer.
FOLLOW-US
