Are you thinking of leaving your country to move to Italy? Here's what you need to know

Moving to Italy can be a rewarding experience, thanks to the quality of life and rich cultural heritage. However, legally settling in Italy requires planning, specific procedures, and a solid understanding of Italian immigration regulations. If you are a foreign citizen — for example, a U.S. citizen — considering a life change and have chosen Italy as your ideal destination, this article is for you.

Visa types, residence permits, and entering the Schengen Area

Italy is part of the Schengen Area, which means citizens of many countries can enter without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days. However, if you plan to stay longer or settle for work, study, or family reasons, you will need a national visa and later a residence permit.

The main types of long-term national visas available include:

• Employee Work Visa (EU Blue Card): if you have a job offer in Italy and are a highly qualified worker, you may be eligible under Article 27 quater of Legislative Decree 286/98 (EU Blue Card)
• Self-Employment Visa: for those who want to work independently or as freelancers
• Study Visa: for those enrolling in courses lasting more than 90 days, such as at Italian universities
• Family Reunification Visa: for direct relatives of non-EU citizens who are already legally residing in Italy
• Elective Residence Visa: for individuals with passive income who do not intend to work in Italy and can support themselves throughout their stay
• Digital Nomad Visa: available starting in 2024, for remote workers with stable incomes and professional experience as digital nomads
• Investor Visa: for those who wish to invest significant sums in Italian companies or government initiatives and obtain a residence permit

Once you arrive in Italy with a valid long-stay visa, you must apply for a residence permit within 8 working days. This document is essential to legally reside in the country for more than 90 days and the process concludes with fingerprinting at the local police station.

Cities to consider

Italy offers a wide variety of environments, from industrial cities to quiet coastal towns. Some cities stand out for job opportunities, quality of life, or expat communities — if you’re thinking about moving to Italy, choosing the right city is essential. For example:

• Rome: The capital, ideal for those interested in culture, politics, public sector, and tourism opportunities.
• Milan: Italy’s economic and fashion hub. Best suited for professionals in design, banking, tech, and international trade.
• Bologna: A university city with a youthful atmosphere, strong connectivity, and excellent cuisine.
• Florence: For art and history lovers, offering a great balance between urban life and traditional charm.
• Naples: A vibrant city in the south, with a lower cost of living and easy access to the Amalfi Coast.
• Turin, Padua, Verona, and Palermo: Other options with strong infrastructure, respected universities, and more affordable living compared to major metropolises.

Buying properties in Italy

Buying a home in Italy is an attractive option both for those looking to settle permanently and for those interested in investing. EU citizens can purchase property without restrictions, while non-EU citizens must check whether a reciprocity agreement with Italy exists or hold a valid residence permit.

The process begins with obtaining an Italian tax code and, preferably, opening a local bank account. Then, a preliminary contract is usually signed to set the terms of the purchase, followed by the final deed (rogito) signed before a notary to formalize the transaction.
Despite additional costs — such as taxes, notary fees, and agency commissions — buying property in Italy remains appealing, especially in areas with affordable prices and high quality of life.

Italian healthcare system

When considering moving to another country, healthcare is one of the most important aspects to research beforehand. Italy has a high-quality public national health system (SSN) offering universal coverage. Healthcare is available to residents, although access depends on immigration status.

EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) temporarily. For stays over 90 days, they must register with the SSN. Non-EU citizens must purchase private insurance to obtain a visa, but once in Italy, they can register with the SSN either by paying an annual fee or automatically, depending on their visa and residence permit type (e.g., workers may qualify).

Once enrolled in the SSN, you receive a health card that allows access to general practitioners, hospitals, and specialist services at reduced or no cost, depending on the treatment.

The tax code (Codice Fiscale)

The codice fiscale is a personal identification number issued by the Italian Revenue Agency. It’s required to:

• open a bank account
• sign a rental contract
• access healthcare services
• purchase property

You can get it for free at a local office of the Revenue Agency by presenting your passport (and visa, if applicable) along with a request form and a reason for your request. Alternatively, you can apply through the relevant Italian Consulate in your home country.

Opening a bank account

Opening a bank account in Italy is essential for managing your finances, especially if you work, rent a home, or contract services. Banks may offer non-resident accounts, although with limited services. Major institutions include Intesa Sanpaolo, UniCredit, BNL, and online banks such as N26 or Revolut, which simplify the process. It’s advisable to compare fees, digital services, and terms before choosing a bank to open your account.

Conclusion

Relocating to Italy involves more than just packing your bags and buying a plane ticket. From the type of visa to healthcare access and opening a bank account, every step requires preparation and documentation. With this guide, you’ll have a clear overview of what you need to start a new life in one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.