The number of Brazilians living in Italy has been growing. In 2024, there were 159.000 people, according to the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Meanwhile, Istat, Italy's statistics agency, registered 51.918 Brazilians legally residing in the country on January 1 of the same year.
The difference is explained by the criterion adopted: Brazil also considers Italian-Brazilians, even those who acquired Italian citizenship. Istat only counts foreigners without Italian citizenship.
In 2023, the estimated total was around 150.000 Brazilians. Most seek to reconnect with their origins, a better quality of life and more affordable costs.
Check out the main steps below for those who want to move from Brazil to Italy in 2025.
Visa
Those who do not have European citizenship must apply for a visa to live in Italy. The choice depends on the profile: retired, worker, student or family member. The application must be made at consulate Italian closest to the residence still in Brazil.
It is possible to visit the country as a tourist to look for property, but financial commitments should be avoided before the visa is approved. The tourist visa is valid for 90 days.
Residency Eligibility
After the visa is approved, it is necessary to apply for the residence permit (residence permit) within eight business days of arrival. The process begins at the post office and requires at least two visits to the Police Headquarters, the local police headquarters.
Italian law allows up to 60 days for analysis. In practice, the waiting time can exceed a year in some regions.
Home
To buy a property, foreigners face bureaucracy and banking requirements. When it comes to renting, there is a shortage in cities like Roma, Milan, Florence and Venice. It is recommended to read the rental contracts before signing.
Bank account
Opening an account in an Italian bank is recommended to receive salaries, pay rent and use public services. Brazilians can choose between traditional or digital banks.
Some institutions may request a residence visa and proof of fixed address. Having a fiscal Code (Italian CPF) is essential for this and other operations.
Health system
When establishing himself, the foreigner can register with the National Health Service (SSN), the public health system. There are two types of registration:
- Mandatory (free): for employees, self-employed workers and family members of residents.
- Volunteer (paid): for pensioners, volunteers and other cases. The amount varies from €2.000 to €2.788,87 per year.
Qualification
O Brazil has an agreement with Italy which allows the conversion of the Brazilian driver's license without the need to retake exams, as long as the driver is within the deadline and the CNH is valid.
The exchange can be made up to one year after registering your residence. After this period, you will need to take the Italian theoretical and practical exam.
Taxes
Italy taxes based on residence. Anyone who lives in the country for more than 183 days per year is considered a tax resident.
Brazilians must declare income in Italy and, if they continue to have obligations in Brazil, they will also need to report to the Federal Revenue Service. There is an agreement between the two countries to avoid double taxation.
Integration
Adaptation also involves social life. Learning Italian and participating in the local community facilitates friendships and cultural integration.
Minor children and school in Italy
Brazilians who move to Italy with children must enroll them in the local school. Education is compulsory from the ages of 6 to 16, according to Italian law.
The public system is free and divided into three stages:
- Primary school (elementary): from 6 to 11 years old
- Second grade school (medium I): from 11 to 14
- Second grade school (medium II): from 14 to 19
Before the age of 6, it is common to enroll children in primary school (kindergarten), which is not mandatory but is free in public schools.
To enroll, you must present:
- Identity document, or passport, of the person responsible
- Soggiorno permission (if already available)
- Child tax code
- Proof of address
- Translated academic transcript, if applicable
In some cities, there are schools that support foreigners, including courses in Italian as a second language. Low-income families can apply for assistance with school meals, transportation and supplies.
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