How to move to Italy in 2026: Step-by-step

Thinking of moving to Italy? You'll need more than a flight booking and visions of la dolce vita.

To make the move successfully, you need both inspiration and a clear roadmap — and that's exactly what this guide provides.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• Why Italy attracts thousands of expats every year
• The long-term visa options available (and who needs them)
• How much it actually costs to move and live in Italy
• How to prepare in the months before your move
• What to do in your first month and first year after arriving
• How to reach permanent residency and citizenship

By the end, you'll know exactly how to turn your Italian dream into reality.

Ready?

Why move to Italy?

It comes as no surprise that Italy is a prime destination for both tourism and long-term stays.

Employment opportunities in science, engineering, business, and trade attract thousands of newcomers every year. Italy's Impatriate Regime tax incentive (more on this below) makes relocating even more attractive for skilled professionals.

Education is another big plus. Italy's public universities remain among the most affordable in Europe, often offering low or no tuition.

Inexpensive and accessible universal healthcare is a major factor for many newcomers. Italy's SSN (public health system) was ranked #2 globally by the WHO, and while quality and wait times vary by region, overall coverage remains a strong benefit.

And then there's that famous Italian lifestyle. From a Mediterranean diet and scenic coastlines to UNESCO-protected heritage sites, Italy blends culture with a quality of life admired around the world.

But it's not all sunshine. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Bureaucracy is slow — permit processing can take months (sometimes over a year in big cities), and you'll deal with more paperwork than you expect
• Lower salaries than northern Europe or the US, especially outside Milan
• Competitive job market, particularly for roles that don't require English or specialized skills
• August shutdown — much of the country takes extended summer holidays, and many businesses close for weeks
• Language barrier — outside major tourist areas, English is less widely spoken than you might expect

Going in with realistic expectations will help you enjoy Italy even more.

Who needs a visa?

The first step on your journey to Italy is figuring out whether you need a visa.

If you're a resident of the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you're in luck: free movement regulations mean you can live, work, or study in Italy for as long as you like without a visa.

Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and the USA benefit from bilateral agreements allowing them to enter without a visa for short periods (up to 90 days). However, these agreements don't allow you to work in Italy, so if you're planning to settle long-term, you'll need to apply for a long-term visa.

For all other countries, visas are required for both short visits and longer stays.

Coming soon — ETIAS: Starting in late 2026, visa-exempt nationals (including Americans, Canadians, and Australians) will need to register through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before entering Italy. It costs €7 and is valid for three years. The EU's biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) is already live as of October 2025.

Visa and immigration options

Applying for the correct visa is one of the most important steps, so it's worth taking the time to explore your options.

Applications are typically submitted through your local Italian consulate. Once approved, you enter Italy with the visa and must then apply for a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) at the local Questura within eight days of arrival.

Here's a breakdown of what's available:

Employment visas and the Decreto Flussi

Non-EU nationals with a confirmed job offer need an employment visa. You must have a signed job contract with an Italian employer willing to sponsor your application.

Employment visas for non-EU workers are subject to the Decreto Flussi (annual quota system). The 2024 reform introduced a three-year framework (2023-2025), and the newest framework covers 2026-2028 with approximately 500,000 total permits. For 2026, that means 164,850 slots (88,000 seasonal + 76,850 non-seasonal), now distributed by province rather than nationally.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is designed for highly qualified professionals, offering increased mobility within the EU and a quicker path to long-term residency.

Salary thresholds (updated annually per ISTAT data):

• Standard roles: ~€35,000-€36,000/year
• Shortage sectors (healthcare, ICT): ~€28,000-€29,000/year

Digital Nomad Visa

Italy's Digital Nomad Visa has been operational since April 2024 and is one of the most accessible in Europe.

Requirements:

• Minimum income: ~€28,000/year gross
• At least 6 months of remote work experience with your current employer or clients
• Proof that your work can be performed remotely
• Visa-compliant expat health insurance

The visa is issued for one year initially and is renewable. Italy's income threshold is among the lowest in Europe for digital nomad visas, making it a competitive option compared to Spain, Portugal, or Croatia.

Self-employment and startup visas

Self-employment visas are subject to strict quotas under the Decreto Flussi. Applicants must show proof of professional qualifications and financial resources.

Startup visas are for entrepreneurs launching innovative businesses. Applications go through a dedicated portal (Italia Startup Visa) and are not subject to quotas.

Elective residence visa

The elective residence visa is for retirees or financially independent individuals who want to live in Italy without working.

Income thresholds:

• Single applicant: ~€31,000-€32,000/year
• Couple: ~€38,000-€40,000/year
• Some US consulates require €50,000-€60,000 in demonstrated resources

You must show proof of stable passive income (pension, investments, rental income) and accommodation in Italy.

Important: Elective residence visa holders do not get automatic access to Italy's public healthcare system. You'll need to either pay for voluntary SSN enrollment (€2,000-€2,788/year) or maintain private health insurance.

Student visa

If you've been admitted to an Italian university, you'll need a student visa. Applicants must present proof of enrollment, financial security, accommodation, and health insurance. Learn more about how to study in Italy as an international student.

Family reunification

Spouses, children, or dependent relatives of legal residents can apply for family reunification permits. Applicants must show proof of stable income, adequate housing, and the family relationship (with documents legalized and translated into Italian).

Investor visa (Golden Visa)

Italy's investor visa offers residency in exchange for a significant capital commitment. There are four investment tiers:

The visa is valid for two years, renewable, and extends to immediate family members.

How to apply for an Italian visa (step by step)

1. Identify the right visa type — match your situation (work, study, retirement, investment) to the categories above
2. Gather required documents — typically includes passport, financial proof, accommodation proof, health insurance, and visa-specific documents. Most documents need to be apostilled and translated into Italian
3. Book an appointment at your nearest Italian consulate — wait times vary; book as early as possible (some consulates are booked months out)
4. Submit your application — attend the consulate appointment with all documents and pay the visa fee (~€116 for national visas)
5. Wait for processing — typically 30-90 days. Once approved, you receive a visa sticker in your passport valid for entry into Italy

Learn more about Italy's visa requirements and the visa application process.

How much does it cost to move to Italy?

One of the most common questions — and one most guides don't answer with enough specifics. Here's what to actually budget.

Visa fees and permit costs

Cost of living by city

Monthly costs for a single person (rent for a 1-bedroom in city center + basic living expenses):

Source: Numbeo Italy, 2026 data.

How much savings do you need?

As a rule of thumb, budget at least 3 months of living expenses beyond your visa's income requirements:

• Milan/Florence: €8,000-€10,000 in savings
• Rome/Bologna: €6,500-€8,500
• Naples/smaller cities: €5,500-€7,000

This covers your rental deposit (typically 2-3 months' rent), initial setup costs (utilities, furniture), and a buffer while you get settled.

Preparing for your move to Italy

Preparing essential documents

Before arriving in Italy, take the time to collect all the documents you'll need.

Many official documents (birth/marriage certificates, academic diplomas) must be apostilled (or legalized) and translated into Italian by a certified translator.

Timelines can be lengthy — securing an apostille can take several weeks depending on your country's procedures. Start the process at least three to four months before your intended move.

Key documents to prepare:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned stay)
• Apostilled and translated birth certificate
• Apostilled and translated academic diplomas
• Police clearance certificate (some visa types)
• Proof of financial resources
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance documentation
• Passport-sized photos (biometric format)

Finding a job in Italy

Securing work is easier if you've prepared in advance.

Major platforms like LinkedIn, InfoJobs, and Monster Italy list vacancies across industries, while specialized boards focus on fields like healthcare or IT.

Networking through professional associations and building relationships through internships, local courses, or volunteering also increases your chances.

Securing accommodation (and avoiding scams)

The Italian rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities.

Contract types to know:

• Contratto a canone libero (4+4): Free-market rent, 4-year term with automatic 4-year renewal
• Contratto a canone concordato (3+2): Regulated lower rent in exchange for tax benefits for the landlord, 3-year term with automatic 2-year renewal
• Contratto transitorio: Short-term (1-18 months), for documented temporary needs

Tenants should ensure contracts are officially registered. Where possible, benefit from the cedolare secca flat tax regime (21% on the first property; note that since January 2025, the rate is 26% for additional short-term rentals, and a third property triggers business classification with VAT obligations).

Avoiding scams: Never wire money before signing an official contract, and never pay deposits for apartments you haven't personally visited. Trusted platforms include Immobiliare.it, Idealista, and Casa.it, as well as licensed estate agencies.

Tip: Many newcomers start with a short-term rental (1-3 months) to explore neighborhoods before committing to a long-term lease. This also gives you time to visit apartments in person and avoid the most common rental scams that target people searching from abroad.

Health insurance for your visa

Health coverage is required for all visas.

Until you qualify for the public system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale), you'll need private health insurance. Applicants must show proof of insurance valid in Italy at least for the initial stay.

Expat health insurance plans are designed to meet visa requirements and provide access to healthcare from day one, serving as a bridge until you're eligible for the SSN. Learn more in our complete guide to health insurance in Italy.

Getting your things, car, or pets to Italy

Making sure your life follows you to Italy can make a huge difference as you settle in.

New residents can often import household goods duty-free. Customs clearance typically involves presenting your residence permit and a detailed inventory of goods.

Bringing a car is more complex. Vehicles must meet EU emission and safety standards, and you'll need to register the car in Italy within 12 months of arrival.

Driving license rules:

• EU/EEA licenses are valid indefinitely in Italy
• Non-EU licenses are valid for one year after establishing residency, then must be converted
• Countries with bilateral agreements (UK, Switzerland, and a few others) can convert without retaking the test
• US, Canadian, and Australian license holders must take the full Italian driving test (theory + practical) — this is a common surprise for newcomers

For pets, the EU Pet Passport (or equivalent veterinary certificate) is mandatory. Animals must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by official health documentation.

Your first month after arriving in Italy

Applying for your permesso di soggiorno

The permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) is your most important document after arriving. You must begin the application within eight days of arrival.

How to apply:

1. Purchase a kit from any post office (Poste Italiane)
2. Fill out the application forms and attach required documents
3. Submit the kit at a designated post office
4. Attend a fingerprinting appointment at the Questura (police headquarters)
5. Collect your permit once it's ready

Costs: ~€116-€176 total (€16 marca da bollo + €30.46 permit fee + €30 postal fee + €40-€100 electronic permit contribution).

Processing times — the reality: This is the part most guides gloss over. Official processing time is 60 days, but in practice:

• Smaller cities: 3-6 months
• Rome, Milan, Naples: 6-12 months, sometimes up to 20 months

The good news: Your postal receipt (ricevuta) serves as legal proof of your application and allows you to stay, work (if your visa allows it), and travel within Italy while you wait. Under Decree-Law 146/2025, if processing exceeds 60 days, you now have the right to begin working even while awaiting permit conversion.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Don't wait longer than 8 days to start the process — late applications can cause complications
• Make copies of everything before submitting — the post office keeps your originals
• Keep your postal receipt with you at all times — it's your legal proof of status while the permit is processing

For more details, visit the Portale Immigrazione.

Registering your address (anagrafe)

As soon as you've moved in, register your address at the local anagrafe (registry office).

This step is crucial for confirming your residency and obtaining an official residenza certificate, which you'll need for healthcare, permits, and other administrative tasks.

You'll need your lease agreement, identification, and sometimes proof of income. The municipality may arrange a home visit to verify your address.

New since 2025: Some municipalities now offer online anagrafe registration via SPID (Italy's digital identity system) through the ANPR portal, where you can also download 14 certificate types for free.

Getting your codice fiscale

The codice fiscale (tax identification number) is essential for almost everything in Italy — signing a lease, opening a bank account, starting work, or registering with the healthcare system.

Important update: As of 2025, the codice fiscale can no longer be obtained from Italian consulates abroad. You must get it in Italy through the Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency):

• In person: Visit your local Agenzia delle Entrate office with your passport — typically processed within a few days
• Online: Submit a request through the Agenzia delle Entrate website (processing takes approximately 5 working days)

Plan for this in your first week — you'll need it for nearly every other administrative step.

Opening a bank account

Banking is essential for paying rent, receiving a salary, or setting up utilities.

Traditional banks like Unicredit and Intesa Sanpaolo offer full services. To open an account, you'll generally need a codice fiscale, proof of residence, and a valid ID.

Account types to know:

• Conto corrente: Standard current account for everyday use
• Conto deposito: Savings account with higher interest rates but limited transactions

Online banks like N26, Revolut, or Wise offer faster setup, often with English interfaces — useful while you wait for your Italian bank account to be activated (which can take weeks at traditional banks).

Setting up utilities and phone

Once you've found a new home, arrange utilities.

Electricity and gas are provided by suppliers such as Enel Energia, Eni, or Hera. Water is managed locally by municipal providers.

Setting up utilities requires your rental contract, ID, and codice fiscale.

For phone and internet, providers like TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Fastweb offer a range of packages. WiFi installation can take time, so arrange early.

Important insurances for expats

Insurance is a critical part of settling in. The three most important types for newcomers:

• Liability insurance: Protects you if you accidentally cause damage to others or their property. Often required for rental contracts.
• Car insurance: Mandatory if you plan to drive, with costs depending on region and driving history.
• Health insurance: Essential for visa applications and the initial months before gaining access to Italy's public system.

Consider also life insurance once you're settled, especially if you have dependents.

Starting work or studies

Before you can legally begin work or studies, a few key documents are required.

The codice fiscale is essential for signing an employment contract, receiving a salary, or enrolling at a university.

Employees must have a registered work contract, and in some cases the employer handles additional documentation such as social security registration.

For students, universities typically require your residence permit application receipt and proof of health insurance before finalizing enrollment.

Bringing your family after arrival

Once you are legally settled, you may apply for family reunification to bring dependents to Italy.

The process requires:

• Proof of adequate income (minimum thresholds vary by family size — roughly €8,500/year for a spouse, plus ~€5,600 per additional dependent)
• Suitable housing (verified by the municipality)
• Official relationship documents, legalized and translated into Italian

Applications are submitted through the local immigration office (Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione). Processing timelines vary widely — expect 2-6 months in smaller cities, longer in Rome or Milan.

Starting the process early helps avoid unnecessary delays in reuniting with your loved ones.

Your first year living in Italy

Public healthcare (SSN)

Once you have your residence permit, you can register with the SSN (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) — Italy's public healthcare system.

Registration takes place at your local ASL (health authority office), where you'll need your residence certificate, codice fiscale, and proof of address. After registering, you choose a general practitioner (medico di base) who serves as your main contact for referrals and prescriptions.

But here's the crucial distinction most guides miss:

• Mandatory enrollment (free): If you're employed, self-employed, have a family reunification permit, or hold asylum/international protection status — SSN enrollment is automatic and free. Your employer handles registration
• Voluntary enrollment (paid): If you're on an elective residence visa, a student visa, or otherwise not employed — you must pay to join the SSN:
  • Students: ~€700/year
  • General voluntary enrollment: €2,000-€2,788/year (based on income)
  • Payments are made annually via the F24 form

If you don't enroll in the SSN, you'll need to maintain private health insurance.

Learn more about public healthcare in Italy.

Learning Italian

Language learning is one of the most important investments you can make in your first year. Speaking Italian makes long-term integration, employment, and navigating bureaucracy significantly easier.

Effective methods include:

• Integration courses offered by municipalities or cultural centers — structured lessons at low cost
• Private language schools in most major cities — intensive programs tailored to professionals or students
• Tandem exchanges — connect you with Italians who want to learn your language in return

You'll need at least A2-level Italian to qualify for permanent residency, and B1-level for citizenship, so starting early pays off.

Taxes and the Impatriate Regime

Once you've spent more than 183 days in Italy, you're legally considered a tax resident and must file a dichiarazione dei redditi (tax return) the following year.

2024 reform update: Italy's tax residency rules were broadened effective 2025. Physical presence of 183+ days now triggers tax residency regardless of whether you've registered at the anagrafe. The test also considers civil-law residence and "centre of vital interests" (family connections), making it easier than before to qualify as a tax resident.

INPS social contributions:

• Employees: ~33% total (roughly 10% employee share + 23% employer share) — deducted from salary
• Freelancers (Gestione Separata): 26.07%
• First-time Partita IVA holders: 50% reduction on INPS contributions for the first 3 years

The Impatriate Regime — Italy's headline tax break:

If you're moving to Italy and haven't been an Italian tax resident for at least two years prior, you may qualify for the Impatriate Regime: a 50% income tax exemption for 5 years (previously 70%, reduced by the 2024 reform for new applicants). For those moving to southern regions (Abruzzo, Molise, Campania, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sardinia, Sicily), the exemption can be even more favorable.

This is a major draw for skilled professionals and can save tens of thousands of euros per year.

US citizens: Remember that the US taxes citizens on worldwide income regardless of residency. You'll need to file US taxes annually and may benefit from the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit (FTC). FBAR reporting is required if your foreign accounts exceed $10,000 at any point during the year.

Culture and workplace habits

Adapting to Italian workplace culture helps you build trust and integrate smoothly.

Many companies maintain a clear hierarchical structure where respect for managers and seniority is important.

Employment contracts typically include 4 weeks of paid vacation, and it's common for many businesses to slow down in August during the summer holidays.

A few cultural norms worth knowing:

• Lunch is important — many Italians take a proper lunch break (1-2 hours), and business meetings rarely happen during this time
• Punctuality is relaxed in social settings but expected in business
• Personal relationships matter in professional settings — invest time in getting to know colleagues
• Dress code is generally smart — Italians tend to dress well, and this extends to the workplace

Building a social network

Forming a community in Italy takes time, but opportunities are everywhere.

Many newcomers join expat groups, language exchange events, or platforms like Meetup that host gatherings for sports, networking, or cultural activities.

Volunteering offers another avenue to integrate while contributing to the community.

Making connections with both expats and locals gives you support and authentic cultural immersion, helping you feel truly at home.

Childcare and education

Italy offers both public and private options for education:

• State schools are free of charge and follow a national curriculum
• Private and international schools charge tuition and offer bilingual programs, alternative teaching methods, or curricula aligned with other countries

Childcare begins with asili nido (nurseries) for children up to age three, followed by scuola dell'infanzia (kindergarten).

Costs:

• Public nurseries: income-based fees, often €170-€440/month
• Private nurseries: €300-€700/month
• Public university tuition: €0-€4,000/year (income-based)
• Private university tuition: €3,000-€6,000+/year

Enrollment requires proof of residence and vaccination records.

Transport and driving license conversion

Italy's transport system is well developed, widely available, and affordable in most cities.

In major cities, monthly passes for buses, trams, and metros significantly reduce costs compared to single tickets (€35-€50/month in most cities).

Driving license conversion rules:

Non-EU licenses are valid for one year after establishing residency. After that, you must convert or you can't legally drive. The Italian theory test is available in English at some offices, but practice exams are highly recommended — the questions are notoriously specific.

Long-term residency and citizenship

Permanent residency (after 5 years)

After five years of continuous legal residence, non-EU citizens can apply for an EU long-term residence permit (permesso di soggiorno UE per soggiornanti di lungo periodo).

This permit grants almost the same rights as Italian citizens, including free movement across most EU countries and easier access to jobs and benefits.

Requirements:

• 5 years of continuous legal residence
• Stable income (at least the annual social allowance — ~€6,500/year for 2026)
• Adequate housing
• Italian language proficiency at A2 level or higher
• No criminal record

Absence limits: A single absence longer than 6 months or total absences exceeding 10 months over the 5-year period will disqualify your application and reset the clock.

Italian citizenship (after 10 years)

Italian citizenship offers full rights in Italy and the EU, including voting and unrestricted work across member states.

The most common path for expats is naturalization after 10 years of legal residence (reduced to 4 years for EU citizens, and 3 years for those married to an Italian citizen).

June 2025 referendum update: A referendum in June 2025 proposed reducing the residency requirement from 10 to 5 years, but it failed to reach the required quorum. The 10-year rule remains in place.

Processing currently takes 3-4 years after filing, though reforms aim to streamline procedures. Applicants must demonstrate income stability, integration, and B1-level Italian proficiency.

Italy is among the countries that allow dual citizenship, which is a major advantage for expats who want to maintain ties with their home country while enjoying EU rights.

Citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis)

Italy has historically offered one of Europe's most generous citizenship-by-descent programs. However, Law 74/2025 (March 2025) significantly restricted eligibility:

• Citizenship by descent is now limited to those who can trace their Italian lineage through a parent or grandparent only
• Great-grandparent lineage no longer qualifies under the new law
• Applications already in progress before March 2025 may be grandfathered under the old rules

If you believe you qualify, consult an immigration attorney specializing in Italian citizenship — the requirements and documentation are complex.

Long-term financial planning

Settling permanently in Italy requires thoughtful financial planning.

Contributions to INPS build toward state pensions, with benefits depending on years of contributions and income level.

Real estate is a popular investment, but ownership comes with property taxes such as IMU (municipal tax on second homes) and transaction fees. First-home buyers are exempt from IMU.

Consider also private pension plans (fondi pensione), which offer tax-deductible contributions up to €5,164.57/year and can supplement the state pension, particularly important if you arrive later in life and won't accumulate a full INPS contribution history.

Best cities to live in Italy

Choosing the right city depends on your priorities. Here's how the top five compare:

Other cities worth considering: Turin (affordable, growing tech scene), Palermo (ultra-affordable, Mediterranean lifestyle), Verona (small-city charm, strong economy), Trieste (cosmopolitan, border culture).

A few things to keep in mind when choosing:

• Milan has the most international job market and English-speaking environments, but also the highest rents and cost of living in Italy
• Rome has incredible quality of life but can be frustrating for bureaucracy — offices in Rome are notoriously slower than in smaller cities
• Southern cities offer dramatically lower costs, but the job market is smaller and Italian language skills become more essential
• University cities (Bologna, Padua, Turin) tend to be more welcoming to newcomers and have stronger expat infrastructure relative to their size