The Modern Expat’s Guide to Moving and Living in Italy

Italy doesn’t sell itself. It doesn’t have to.

It moves at its own rhythm, sometimes slow, often unpredictable, but always rooted in something deeper: continuity, community, and a way of life that hasn’t been rebranded for the digital age.

That’s exactly what makes it appealing.

In 2025, more expats are choosing Italy not for what’s trending, but for what’s lasting. Public healthcare that works. Cities with character. Daily life that’s still centered around people, not productivity.

And with multiple long-term visa options now in place, including for remote workers and self-sufficient retirees, making the move is more accessible than it’s ever been.

This guide covers everything you need to know to live here long-term, legally, comfortably, and intelligently. Visas, permits, costs, local systems, real-life logistics. No fluff. No fantasy. Just the real layout of how to build a life in Italy, if that’s what you’re after.

Why Move to Italy as an Expat

Most people think of Italy in terms of lifestyle. But behind the good weather and great food is a country that still scores high on real fundamentals, healthcare, safety, education, and long-term stability. It’s not a playground for expats. It’s a place to build a real life.

Public systems that still function

Italy’s healthcare system ranks among the strongest in Europe. The Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) offers universal coverage and is accessible to legal residents, including many expats. Unlike in some countries, you’re not navigating a fully privatized maze, you’re working with a system that still operates on the idea of access over profit.

Real numbers, not just impressions

According to Statista, Italy is now home to around 5.4 foreign residents, and that number keeps growing.

• Over 50,000 Americans currently live in Italy full-time
• The Elective Residence Visa and Digital Nomad Visa have opened the door to more non-EU nationals in the past 18 months
• Italy rankes 7th highly as retirement destination for Americans

Regional depth, not uniformity

What makes Italy unique is how varied it is. Living in Milan is nothing like living in Lecce. Life in Bologna moves differently than life in Palermo. You’re not choosing “Italy” in the abstract—you’re choosing a region, a rhythm, a way of being. That diversity gives you flexibility to design a setup that actually fits how you want to live.

Visa infrastructure is improving

There are now several legitimate long-term pathways to live in Italy, even if you’re not retiring or employed by an Italian company. From investment to self-sufficiency, the Italian immigration framework has modernized, especially since 2022.

Pathways to Residency in Italy

If you're planning to stay in Italy beyond 90 days, you'll need to transition from a visa to a legal residence permit (permesso di soggiorno). This section breaks down the main residency options, who they’re for, and how they work in real life.

Elective Residence

Who it’s for:

People with passive income (from pensions, dividends, rentals, or savings) who want to live in Italy without working.

Key facts:

• Minimum income: €31,000/year (individual), ~€38,000 (couple)
• Proof of housing and private health insurance required
• Not allowed to work or run a business in Italy
• Residence permit valid for 1 year, renewable
• After 5 years of continuous legal stay, you can apply for permanent residency

Real use case: Most common among retirees and early retirees from the U.S., Canada, and the UK looking for a long-term base in southern Europe.

Investor Visa (Italy Golden Visa)

Who it’s for:

HNWIs who want a residency permit through investment.

Investment options:

• €2M in Italian government bonds
• €500K in an Italian company
• €250K in an innovative startup
• €1M donation to a public-interest project

Key facts:

• No physical presence requirement (you can spend most of your time outside Italy)
• Residence permit valid for 2 years, renewable for 3 more
• Family members can be included
• Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years
• Does not automatically lead to citizenship, but naturalization possible after 10 years

Real use case: Useful for investors who want EU residency flexibility without relocating full-time.

Digital Nomad Visa

Who it’s for:

Remote workers and freelancers earning abroad but wanting to live in Italy.

Key facts:

• Minimum income: ~€28,000/year
• Proof of accommodation, health insurance, clean criminal record required
• Must show at least 6 months of remote work experience
• Residence permit valid for 1 year, renewable
• Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years
• Can bring family members such as spouse and children under 18

Real use case: Ideal for tech professionals, creatives, consultants, or agency owners who already work remotely.

Student Residency

Who it’s for:

Foreign students enrolled in an accredited Italian institution.

Key facts:

• Proof of university enrollment and ability to support yourself (€6,000/year)
• Health insurance and accommodation required
• Can work part-time (up to 20 hrs/week)
• Residence permit aligned with length of your program
• Can later transition to a work visa if employed post-graduation

Real use case: Common route for long-term EU plans, especially for young expats from the Americas and Asia.

Work Visa Residency

Who it’s for:

Employees sponsored by an Italian employer, or those entering under the annual Decreto Flussi quotas.

Key facts:

• Requires job offer or employment contract
• Residence permit duration linked to job contract
• Blue Card route available for highly skilled professionals
• Allows family reunification
• Can lead to permanent residency after 5 years, and eventually citizenship

Real use case: Popular among multinational employees, researchers, chefs, engineers, and skilled tradespeople.

Cost of Living in Italy

Living in Italy doesn’t mean breaking the bank. In fact, outside of Milan and central Rome, costs are moderate by European standards and noticeably more affordable than the UK, France, or the U.S.

Housing and Real Estate

Rental costs vary massively depending on location. You’ll pay premium prices in Milan or Rome—but find excellent value in cities like Bari, Palermo, or even Bologna.

Note: Southern and mid-sized cities offer the best value for long-term renters and buyers.

Daily Expenses (Monthly Averages)

Most expats report total monthly costs between €1,300–€1,800 as individuals, and €2,800–€3,500 for families, depending on location and lifestyle.

Healthcare Costs

If you’re a resident (and registered with the SSN), public healthcare is nearly free or low-cost.

But if you’re on a visa that doesn’t include SSN access, you’ll need private health insurance.

• Private insurance cost:
  • Singles: from €90–€120/month
  • Couples/Families: from €200–€400/month

• Out-of-pocket costs (for private clinics):
  • GP visits: ~€50
  • Specialist: ~€80–€150
  • Routine bloodwork: ~€30–€60

Private insurance is mandatory for all visa types during the first year of stay.

Education Expenses

• Public schools: Free for residents, including expats
• International schools:
  • Tuition: €5,000–€15,000/year, depending on city and curriculum (IB, British, American, etc.)

Most international schools are in Rome, Milan, Florence, Bologna, and Naples.

Best Cities for Expats in Italy

Rome

Living in Rome means being surrounded by ancient ruins and diplomatic embassies, but also by scooters, tourists, and daily unpredictability. It’s ideal for people who love big-city life with a dramatic backdrop.

You’ll find international schools, a well-connected airport, and neighborhoods ranging from classic to bohemian. Rome isn’t calm, but it has character, and lots of it.

Milan

Milan runs on efficiency. If you’re coming from a major world city, this is where you’ll feel most at home. The city is the financial, fashion, and tech capital of Italy, with a modern skyline, serious work culture, and a strong expat presence.

It’s a great base if you plan to work in Italy or need quick access to Europe’s other business centers.

Florence

Florence feels like living inside a museum, but one where people still hang laundry from their windows and stop for an aperitivo in the afternoon.

It’s deeply walkable, deeply beautiful, and ideal for creatives, students, and anyone drawn to Italy’s artistic heart. The expat community here is close-knit, and the lifestyle is more relaxed than in Rome or Milan.

Bologna

Often overlooked, Bologna is one of Italy’s most balanced cities. It’s home to Europe’s oldest university, a thriving student population, and a rich food culture.

The city offers just enough activity without the overwhelm, making it ideal for families, remote workers, and expats who want substance without chaos. It also connects easily to the rest of the country via high-speed rail.

Naples

Naples is not for everyone, but it’s unforgettable. Gritty and alive, this southern city offers a raw, unfiltered Italian experience.

It’s bursting with street food, sea views, and spontaneous joy. For expats looking for something real, and who don’t mind noise or spontaneity, Naples offers both a low cost of living and a lot of heart.

Palermo & Bari

If you’re seeking sunshine, seaside living, and a deeper dive into local culture, Sicily (Palermo) or Puglia (Bari) might be the move. These cities are slower, more traditional, and far more affordable than their northern counterparts.

They’re popular among retirees and remote workers who want a Mediterranean lifestyle without the international gloss.

Healthcare in Italy for Expats

Italy’s healthcare system is one of the strongest in Europe. If you’re a legal resident, you’ll have access to the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), Italy’s public healthcare system, known for its affordability, wide coverage, and surprisingly high standards of care, especially for general medicine and emergencies.

But access, costs, and expectations vary depending on your visa type and whether you’re enrolled in the system.

How the Public System Works (SSN)

Once you have your residence permit, you can register with the SSN through your local health authority (ASL).

This gives you:

• Access to general practitioners (GPs), hospitals, and emergency care
• Prescription medicines at subsidized rates
• Maternity care and specialist visits (with small co-pays)

Key point: Even in public hospitals, quality of care can be excellent, but wait times for specialists or elective procedures can be long.

Private Healthcare Options

Many expats, especially in their first year, opt for private health insurance, either by choice or because their visa requires it. With private care, you skip the waiting and can choose English-speaking doctors or international clinics.

You’ll want to consider private coverage if you:

• Are applying for a visa that doesn’t include SSN access (e.g. Elective Residence or Digital Nomad Visa)
• Prefer faster access to specialists or private hospitals
• Are staying less than a year and won’t be eligible to register for SSN yet

Most expats carry both: they register with the SSN once eligible and keep private insurance as backup.

Health Insurance Requirements for Visas

Most long-stay visa types require proof of private health insurance that:

• Covers at least €30,000/year in medical costs
• Is valid in all EU countries
• Is purchased before your visa appointment

Some popular providers among expats include Cigna Global, Axa, Allianz, and IMG.

Legal Requirements for Living in Italy

Once you’ve secured your visa and arrived in Italy, the real paperwork begins. Living here long-term requires more than just a valid visa, it involves registering with multiple local authorities, getting your Italian tax code, and securing your residence permit (permesso di soggiorno).

This section covers the three essential legal steps you’ll need to complete after arrival.

1. Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno)

If you're staying in Italy for more than 90 days, this is mandatory.

• When: Apply within 8 working days of arriving in Italy

• Where: Start at a local post office (Sportello Amico counter), then follow up at your local immigration office (Questura)

• What you’ll need:
  • Passport + visa copy
  • Visa application receipts
  • Proof of address in Italy
  • Health insurance
  • Passport photos
  • Postal application kit (provided at post office)

Once submitted, you’ll be called to the Questura for fingerprinting and final processing. The first permit is usually valid for 1 or 2 years, depending on your visa type.

Without this, you’re not legally resident, even if you have a visa.

2. Italian Tax Code (Codice Fiscale)

Think of this as your Italian Social Security number, it’s required for almost everything:

• Renting a home
• Opening a bank account
• Signing contracts
• Getting a SIM card
• Accessing healthcare

Where to get it:

• At your local Agenzia delle Entrate (tax office)
• Or from the Italian consulate if you're still abroad

Documents required: Passport + visa copy. If you're already in Italy, bring your lease agreement or proof of accommodation.

3. Registration with Local Municipality (Anagrafe)

This step is for expats planning to live in Italy long-term.

• Known as iscrizione anagrafica
• Required to access many municipal services
• Confirms your legal presence in a specific address and city

To register, you’ll need:

• Proof of residency (lease, utility bills)
• Passport + visa
• Residence permit or postal receipt (if still processing)
• Codice fiscale

Once registered, you’ll be considered an official resident of that town or city, and will receive a Certificato di Residenza (proof of residency).

Important: Some benefits like public healthcare, school enrollment, and local tax rights depend on this registration.

Financial Considerations for Expats in Italy

Italy has its own rules when it comes to banking, taxes, pensions, and investment, and as a foreign resident, getting these right can save you both money and future headaches.

Opening a Bank Account in Italy

A local bank account isn’t just convenient, it’s essential.

You'll need one for:

• Paying rent and utilities
• Receiving income (if permitted under your visa)
• Setting up direct debits for mobile, health insurance, or transportation passes
• Any residency-related bureaucracy (some payments must be done via Italian bank transfer)

What you need to open an account:

• Passport
• Codice fiscale (Italian tax ID)
• Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
• Residency permit (or receipt of application)

Tip: Major banks like UniCredit, Intesa Sanpaolo, and BNL offer expat-friendly services. Some even allow you to start the process from abroad.

Taxes: When and What You Owe

If you spend more than 183 days per year in Italy, you’ll likely be considered a tax resident, meaning you're liable for tax on your worldwide income, not just Italian earnings.

Italy’s personal income tax (IRPEF) brackets:

• 23% on income up to €28,000
• 35% from €28,001 to €50,000
• 43% above €50,000
• Regional and municipal surcharges (usually 1–3%)

Italy has tax treaties with many countries (including the U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia) to help avoid double taxation. U.S. citizens, for example, can often use the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) or FEIE when filing with the IRS.

Tip: If your income is from passive sources (pensions, investments), the Elective Residence Visa doesn’t exempt you from tax, but strategic planning can minimize your liability.

Pension & Retirement Considerations

Many retirees choose Italy for its cost of living, healthcare, and lifestyle, but if you’re receiving a foreign pension, here’s what to know:

• Italy does tax foreign pension income, unless a bilateral agreement states otherwise (e.g., with the U.S., some UK provisions, and Canada)
• You may be eligible for pension transfer schemes, depending on your country of origin
• Private pension payments can be received into your Italian bank account, but may require local declarations

Investing While Living in Italy

You’re allowed to invest as a resident, but be aware:

• You must declare all foreign bank accounts and assets over a certain threshold
• Investment income (interest, capital gains) may be taxable
• Italy offers tax incentives for new residents (we can cover these in detail if needed), especially high-income earners and returning Italians

Tip: If you’re planning to maintain investments or property abroad, talk to an international tax advisor. Italy’s tax authority is strict about overseas holdings.

Practical Aspects of Moving to Italy

Relocating to Italy isn’t just about paperwork. It’s about building a day-to-day life that works, whether that means finding an apartment, enrolling your kids in school, or figuring out how to get around without losing your mind (or your patience).

Here’s what to expect on the ground:

Finding a Place to Live

Renting in Italy can be surprisingly old-school. Many listings are still handled through local agents and neighborhood notice boards, and it’s common to deal directly with landlords.

How to approach it:

• Use platforms like Idealista, Immobiliare.it, and Subito for online searches
• Expect to sign a registered lease contract (contratto registrato), this is important for legal residency
• Most rentals are unfurnished, and that often means literally empty (bring your own light fixtures and appliances)
• Deposits are usually 2–3 months’ rent

Tip: In smaller towns or the south, landlords may prefer cash or “off-the-books” arrangements, avoid this if you’re planning to apply for residency or declare expenses legally.

Language Barriers

While you’ll find English speakers in tourist zones and international businesses, most daily interactions in Italy still happen in Italian, especially in public offices, pharmacies, small shops, and healthcare.

You don’t need to be fluent, but learning basic Italian will:

• Make every interaction easier
• Help with bureaucracy (trust us)
• Earn instant respect from locals
• Reduce dependence on expat bubbles

Tip: Free or low-cost Italian language courses are available in most cities through public institutions (like CPIA schools), universities, or volunteer programs.

Education System

Italy’s public education is well-structured and free for residents, including expat children.

• Public schools: Follow a national curriculum, taught in Italian
• Private and international schools: Common in Rome, Milan, Florence, and Bologna; offer British, American, IB, or bilingual programs
• Kindergarten (scuola dell’infanzia) is optional
• Primary (elementare), middle (media), and high school (superiore) are mandatory until age 16

Tip: International schools are competitive, apply early if that’s your route.

Steps to Successfully Relocate to Italy

Relocating to Italy is a multi-phase process, and it’s easy to get lost in the bureaucracy, especially if you're doing it alone. This section breaks it down into manageable steps, from preparation to full integration.

Before You Move

• Choose the right visa for your situation: Elective Residence, Digital Nomad, Investor, Work, or Student

• Start your visa application at the Italian consulate in your home country

• Get private health insurance that meets Italy’s visa requirements (minimum €30,000 coverage)

• Secure long-term accommodation (rental contract or purchase agreement, even if conditional)

• Apply for your Codice Fiscale through the consulate or online via a tax advisor

• Translate and apostille key documents: birth certificate, marriage certificate, bank letters if needed

• Book a one-way flight (most long-stay visas do not require round-trip tickets)

Your First 30 Days in Italy

• Apply for your residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 working days of arrival

• Collect your postal kit from a post office with a Sportello Amico counter

• Schedule your fingerprinting appointment (Questura)

• Register your lease or property with the local tax office, if not done by the landlord

• Visit your local Anagrafe (town hall) to begin residency registration

• Finalize your Codice Fiscale, if you didn’t do it from abroad

• Open an Italian bank account (required for many services)

• Buy a local SIM card and set up basic utilities, if not already included in your lease

• Look for a nearby language school or integration course (many are subsidized)

Your First 3–6 Months

• Finalize your registration with the SSN (Italian public healthcare) if eligible

• Receive your electronic residence permit card after completing the Questura appointment

• Set up recurring payments for rent, utilities, and mobile plans through your Italian bank

• Research accounting or tax support if you’ll be filing in both Italy and your home country

• Explore local expat communities, hobby groups, or religious/cultural associations

• If applicable, begin the process for school enrollment or vehicle registration

FAQs on Living in Italy as a Modern Expat

1. Do I need to speak Italian to live comfortably in Italy?

Not necessarily, but it helps a lot. In major cities and tourist areas, you’ll find English speakers, but for everyday tasks like visiting the pharmacy, speaking with your landlord, or dealing with public offices, basic Italian makes life much easier. Many expats pick up conversational Italian within their first year.

2. How long does it take to get a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno)?

The timeline varies by region but expect around 6–12 weeks from the date of your appointment at the immigration office (Questura). You must apply within 8 working days of arriving in Italy on a long-stay visa. In the meantime, your postal receipt serves as temporary proof of legal stay.

3. Can I work remotely in Italy on a Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes. As of 2024, Italy offers a Digital Nomad Visa for non-EU citizens who work remotely for companies or clients outside Italy. You’ll need to show a stable income (typically around €28,000/year), health insurance, and at least six months of remote work experience.

4. What are the main taxes I’ll need to pay if I become a resident?

If you spend over 183 days per year in Italy, you may become a tax resident. This means you’ll owe taxes on your worldwide income, with personal income tax rates ranging from 23% to 43%, plus local surcharges. However, Italy has tax treaties to avoid double taxation, and certain newcomers may qualify for special tax regimes.

5. Is Italy a good place to retire as a foreigner?

Yes, especially if you’re financially self-sufficient. The Elective Residence Visa is designed for retirees and others with passive income. You’ll enjoy strong public healthcare, affordable living in many regions, and access to a slower, community-driven lifestyle that’s hard to find elsewhere in Europe.

References

Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. (2024). Types of Italian long-stay visas (National Visas). Referred from: https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en

Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency). (2025). Tax regime for new residents and taxation of individuals. Referred from: https://www.agenziaentrate.gov.it/portale/web/english/nse/individuals/taxregime-newresidents-individuals

Istituto Nazionale di Statistica (ISTAT). (2025). Foreign resident population by country of citizenship and demographic balance. Referred from: https://www.istat.it/en/archive/foreign-residents

Ministry of Health, Italy. (2024). Access to the Italian National Health Service (SSN) for foreign residents: Referred from: https://www.salute.gov.it/portale/temi/p2_6.jsp?lingua=english&id=4534&area=assistenza

European Commission. (2025). Digital Nomad Visa updates and legal pathways for mobile workers in EU member states: Italy report. Referred from: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/legal-framework-digital-nomads-italy_en