Moving to Italy? The Top 10 Things to Do or Prepare Right Now

Italy consistently ranks among the top destinations for people dreaming of a new life abroad. The food, the culture, the climate, the beauty — it's all real. But so is the bureaucracy. Here's a practical, current checklist of the most important things to do or prepare before and after your move.

1. Determine Your Visa or Residency Route

EU/EEA citizens can move to Italy freely. Non-EU citizens need a visa. The most common options include the Elective Residency Visa (for those with passive income), the Digital Nomad Visa (launched in 2024), the Self-Employment Visa, and the Investor Visa. Each has different income requirements and documentation. Start this process at least 6 months before your planned move.

2. Get Your Codice Fiscale (Tax Code)

The codice fiscale is Italy's equivalent of a Social Security or National Insurance number. You need it for almost everything: opening a bank account, signing a lease, getting a phone plan, registering with a doctor. You can apply at any Italian consulate before you move, or at the Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency) once you arrive.

3. Register Your Residency (Residenza)

Once you're in Italy, you must register your residency at your local comune (town hall) within 20 days of arrival if you're an EU citizen, or within 8 days if you're non-EU. This is called iscrizione anagrafica. You'll need your passport, proof of address (a lease or utility bill), and your codice fiscale.

4. Open an Italian Bank Account

You'll need an Italian bank account to pay rent, utilities, and taxes. Most banks require your codice fiscale, passport, and proof of address. Online banks like N26 or Revolut can be useful in the short term, but you'll eventually need a traditional Italian account for direct debits.

5. Register with a Local Doctor (Medico di Base)

Once you have residency, you're entitled to register with Italy's national health service (SSN). Go to your local ASL (Azienda Sanitaria Locale) office with your residency certificate and codice fiscale to register with a medico di base (GP). This gives you access to free or heavily subsidized healthcare.

6. Learn Italian — Seriously

English is spoken in tourist areas and major cities, but in smaller towns and for dealing with bureaucracy, Italian is essential. Even basic Italian will transform your experience. Apps like Duolingo are a start, but consider a proper course. Italians deeply appreciate any effort to speak their language.

7. Understand the Rental Market

Italian rental contracts are typically 4+4 years (residential) or 3+2 years. Short-term contracts exist but are more expensive. Landlords often require a guarantor (garante) if you don't have Italian income. Expect to pay 2-3 months' deposit upfront. Always have a lease reviewed by a lawyer before signing.

8. Sort Out Your Tax Situation

Italy has a flat-tax regime for new residents (7% on foreign income for those moving to southern regions, or a €100,000 flat tax for high earners). But Italian tax law is complex. Hire a commercialista (accountant) who specializes in expat taxation before you move. The cost is worth it.

9. Get Your Driving Licence Sorted

EU driving licences are valid in Italy. Non-EU licences (including UK post-Brexit) must be converted to an Italian licence within one year of establishing residency. The process involves a theory test and practical exam. Start early — waiting times at driving schools can be long.

10. Embrace the Bureaucracy (and Be Patient)

Italian bureaucracy is legendary. Things take longer than you expect. Offices have limited hours. Documents need to be certified, translated, and apostilled. Build extra time into every process. Find a local patronato (free administrative assistance office) — they can help navigate the system at no cost.