If your country of citizenship doesn’t require a Schengen Visa (China, India eg), you can stay in the Schengen area, including Italy, for up to 90 days in a 180 day period. If you wish to stay longer, you will need a Visa.

If you have been accepted to one of the following. A high school or technical school for continued studies, an Italian University exchange program with a University in your home country that you are currently enrolled, an Italian University or other high education institution approved by the Minister of Education, or an Italian language course through a public university for Stranieri (foreigners) that is approved by the ministry.

What is important is that you show a reason for the request to study in Italy. If you are planning to enroll in a language program, you will need to prove a minimum B1 language proficiency before applying.

If you are a non-EU citizen and have applied for a Permesso di Soggiorno (permit of stay) for the first time, in Italy, you will need to sign this agreement. The agreement commits you to learning Italian and respecting Italian values and culture through courses and tasks. Certain people are exempt like children, people who stay less than one year, and those with serious illnesses/disabilities. 

It depends. If you’re seeking a work visa, then the company must be registered in Italy. There’s also the Self Employment Visa which allows you to be self-employed or employed by a company outside of Italy.

Non-EU citizens who wish to stay for over 90 days in a 180 day period must apply for this permit “permesso di soggiorno” within 8 days of entering the country.

They may leave a notice and you’ll have to contact them to reschedule a visit, but often they will continue to try for up to three times.  If you are never at home, your residency can be canceled.  So ensure that you stay at home or close to home during this 45 day window.

As a foreigner in Italy, you are not necessarily required to claim residency, but it depends on your specific situation and the length of your stay and the Visa you hold.

The Investor Visa or Elective Residency Visa. 

If you are an EU citizen (or Italian) and your spouse is a non-EU citizen, their ability to travel within the EU depends on their residency and visa status. If your non-EU spouse holds only a short-term visa (or no visa), they are generally subject to the 90/180-day rule, which allows non-EU citizens to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. With a long-term residency permit, your spouse can travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, similar to the Schengen visa-free rule. However, during these trips, they must return to Italy before the 90-day limit is reached.

Requirements vary based on your country of origin. If moving from a non-EU country, you will typically need to have your pet microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a health certificate from your vet. It is important to check with your local veterinarian to get an update on what is needed.

Each child will typically need a valid passport, birth certificate, visa if required by your country of origin, proof of financial support for your children, proof of accommodation in Italy, and a medical certificate and if you are divorced or separated, legal consent from the other parent.  By signing the Italian Integration Agreement on their behalf, you’re required to send them to a qualifying school.

Yes, but shipping can be very expensive, so many consider leasing instead. If you do bring your vehicle, you’ll have up to 60 days from obtaining residency to register it with Italian license plates. Once you start the registration process, you can’t use the vehicle until you receive the new documentation.

If you are shipping your personal belongings to Italy, whether or not you will need to pay import duties depends on your residency status and the nature of the items. Typically, you will need to establish residency in Italy first, before you send your belongings. 

Remember that the process to establish residency can take between 45 days to over a year. So be sure to plan accordingly.

While it is possible to ship your furniture, make sure to compare prices and options first. In Italy, there are plenty of furniture stores (in-person and online), secondhand stores and markets, and even furnished properties. 

If your home-country has a reciprocity agreement with Italy, then no! You’re allowed to purchase homes, commercial properties and land in Italy. You’re not even required to have an Italian bank account. But, you will still need to have a visa or abide by the Schengen rules for your stay. 

Yes. You’ll need one of the following instead: A long-term contract that’s signed and registered with the Agenzie delle Entrate, a signed declaration of hospitality if living with family, or a deed to your Italian property purchase.

An unfurnished rental is typically empty, meaning no kitchen appliances, toilet, light fixtures, etc. It’s best to double check, as some are partially furnished, including these essentials, except for furniture.

Notify your landlord by registered mail, or certified email, 6 months before your departure date. Some contracts allow a 3-month notice. Include your full name, rental address, date of notice, date of departure and reason for termination.

That would be the 4+4 “contratto di affitto a canone libero” which grants you a 4 year stay with an option to extend for another 4. 

The Fideiussione is protection for the owner if you do not pay the rent. It is a guarantee given by the bank based on the rental agreement and if you stop paying rent, the owner can go to the bank to get the rent. 

There are many ways to pay your utilities, such as at the post office, direct payment with an Italian bank account, or even online. Paying online will help with translations and some landlords submit the payments on behalf of the tenants. 

While it is possible to get a mortgage in Italy over the age of 65, the mortgage term may be shorter, and banks will carefully evaluate your income, including pension income, to ensure you can meet repayment obligations. A higher down payment and life insurance might also be required.  Mortgages cannot be granted past the age of 75 in Italy.

Yes, you can buy property in Italy even if you only plan to visit for 90 days at a time. There are no residency requirements to purchase property in Italy, and non-EU citizens, including U.S. citizens, are allowed to buy real estate in the country. Owning property in Italy does not automatically grant you residency rights. You can own a house or apartment and visit Italy for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under the Schengen visa rules, but this does not allow you to stay long-term or obtain a residency permit unless you apply for a specific visa

Be sure to check with your local rules as there are some countries where you are not permitted to buy a second home in Italy due to reciprocity laws.

It is a good idea to rent initially before buying property in Italy, especially if you are not already familiar with the country, its property market, and local customs. Renting before buying gives you the flexibility, time, and knowledge to make a well-informed decision about purchasing property in Italy. It helps you avoid pitfalls and ensures that when you do buy, you’ll be more confident about your choice. For many, this approach reduces stress and increases the chances of a successful transition to life in Italy.

You only have to pay taxes in Italy if you become a resident of Italy.  Citizenship alone does not trigger tax liability.   Your taxes will be assessed on your worldwide income and you will pay them in Italy.  Most countries have a double-tax treaty in place which is designed to prevent double taxation.  The USA, Australia, UK and Canada all have double taxation treaties.

There are a few ways and each vary with requirements and exemptions -- through an Italian descendent, marrying an Italian, or holding residency for 4-10 years depending on your country of origin. 

Yes. If you’re pursuing Italian citizenship, you’ll be required to submit original or certified copies of yours and your ancestors’ vital records. Some consulates only require photocopies of non in-line ancestors and spouses.

Every Italian consulate now uses the Prenot booking system - http://prenotami.esteri.it - which allows you to make an account, select the consulate closest to your place of residence, and book an appointment. Remember, you can translate the page to English. 

If you can’t enter the wait list of your local consulate, and don't want to wait, you have two options. You can relocate to Italy and pursue a Comune Case OR provide proof of your booking attempts with a No Appointment Case. For more info, visit https://smartmoveitaly.com/italian-citizenship .

Yes. If you've been living in Italy together, you can apply for citizenship two years from the date of your wedding or civil union. Or, three years, if residing outside of Italy. 

You do not need a tourist visa once you’ve been granted Italian citizenship. While waiting for your Italian passport, you can use your non-EU passport to enter Italy and provide proof of your citizenship if necessary.

It is always a good idea to confirm with the Italian consulate or embassy where your citizenship was processed to ensure smooth travel while waiting for your Italian passport.

Yes. You may only apply for citizenship in the jurisdiction where you live. If you wish to apply in Italy, then you must establish and maintain residency for the duration of your application. Contrary to the rumors, you cannot attend and stay for only 90 days and return to your home country. You are able to travel, but you must maintain your taxable residency in Italy for the duration which can take between 4 - 12 months or more.

No, the Elective Residency Visa (ERV) itself does not directly lead to Italian citizenship. However, the ERV can be a pathway toward permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship through Naturalization after 10 years of legal residency, provided you meet specific requirements.

No, it is generally not possible to work in Italy while waiting for your Italian citizenship to be approved by the comune through jure sanguinis. You will need to convert your permit of stay to a work permit, which will be extremely difficult and time-consuming. It is more likely you will receive your citizenship recognition far before your permit is changed or even approved.

Raising young kids in Italy can be a rewarding experience, largely due to the family-oriented culture, high quality of life, and strong community support.

International/bilingual schools offer a smoother academic transition for children, especially if the language barrier is a concern or if you are unsure of how long you’ll stay in Italy. Most international schools in Italy do teach Italian as part of their curriculum as well.

Local Italian schools are good for full cultural and language immersion, and they help integrate your family into Italian society. 

Ultimately, the choice depends on your child's language abilities, adaptability, and how long your family plans to stay in Italy. You might also consider starting with an international school while your child adjusts and potentially transitioning to a local school later on.

Yes, Italy recognizes all of the rights of a same-sex marriage.

The cost of health insurance in Italy depends on various factors, including whether you are opting for public healthcare through the national system (SSN – Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) or private health insurance.

Italy’s public healthcare system is generally accessible to residents and citizens. If you are a foreigner with residency in Italy, you can access the SSN, for a relatively low annual fee which starts at 2000 euro per year.

While the ERV requires private health insurance initially, you can register for public healthcare in Italy (SSN) by paying an annual fee after you are a resident. This allows you access to Italy's healthcare system, but it’s not automatically granted with the visa.

Your healthcare is tied to your residency status. If you become a resident, you can register for the SSN, pay an annual fee, and access public healthcare even if you do not stay all year. You and your Non-EU spouse will have to contribute to the system by paying the voluntary fee. 

If you are Italian and a resident, you will have free healthcare. 

Italy’s healthcare system provides comprehensive coverage and care across the country, but for those in more rural areas, some travel may be necessary for certain treatments or specialized services.

Italy offers several forms of disability pensions depending on the severity of the disability, work history, and financial situation. Individuals with disabilities can benefit from various levels of support, provided they meet the eligibility criteria, including medical assessments and contribution requirements.  Typically foreigners who have not contributed to the system in the past, will not be eligible.

To maintain the 7% flat tax status, you must continue living in a qualifying comune. You are free to move to another comune, but to maintain the benefit, it must be a 7% zone. Moving outside of these regions would result in losing the benefit and subjecting you to standard Italian tax rates.

You will benefit from the double taxation treaties which are designed to save you from paying double tax. However, you will need to speak to your tax advisor for specific guidance on your situation.

To find a good Notaio or Commercialista in Italy, look for professionals with the right qualifications, specializations, and language skills. Recommendations from expat communities or your estate agent can be helpful, as can checking online reviews. Ensure they are responsive, transparent about fees, and experience with international or expat issues. Ultimately, choose professionals you feel comfortable communicating with and trust to handle your legal and financial needs smoothly.

The job market in Italy for non-Italian speakers is challenging. The most likely opportunities would be in multinational companies, remote roles, tourism, and teaching English, but options in local industries can be limited without knowledge of Italian. Improving your Italian language skills can significantly open up job opportunities across a wider range of sectors. Networking is key to finding jobs in Italy, and without speaking Italian, this can be a barrier to entering the job market.

You will need a Visa to work in Italy, and employers generally will not assist.

Yes, you can continue to work remotely while drawing from your 401(k), but there are a few important factors to consider regarding tax implications and visa regulations if you're living in Italy.

Yes, you can live in Italy and draw a salary from your Canadian business, but you'll need to consider tax residency rules, as Italy taxes worldwide income if you reside there for more than 183 days. You'll likely need to pay taxes in both Canada and Italy but can benefit from the Italy-Canada double taxation treaty to avoid being taxed twice. Social security contributions may also be required in Italy, depending on your visa and employment structure. Ensure you have a visa that permits remote work, such as a Digital Nomad Visa or self-employment visa. Consult a Commercialista in Italy and a Canadian tax advisor to comply with both countries' regulations.

The quota system (Decreto Flussi), employer sponsorship, and bureaucracy make the process difficult for non-EU citizens to get a work visa or permit. Highly skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and those working in specialized industries will have better chances.

Building a community in a small town in Italy can often be easier due to the tight-knit nature of local life, where people tend to know one another and social networks are more personal. Small towns in Italy typically emphasize family values and local traditions, creating an environment where new residents can feel welcomed if they actively engage in town events and daily activities. However, the process may also be harder for non-Italian speakers or foreigners because small-town life can be more insular, with fewer people speaking English and a slower pace of cultural adaptation. The success of building a community largely depends on how well you embrace the local culture and integrate into the traditional way of life, which might take time but can lead to deep and meaningful connections.

In Italy’s larger cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence, there is a mix of modern amenities along with historical and cultural heritage. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for socializing, with numerous restaurants, cafes, cultural events, and international communities, making it easier for expats to connect and build a network. English is more commonly spoken, especially in the tourism, business, and education sectors, which can ease the transition for foreigners. However, big cities also tend to be more crowded, with higher costs of living, but can they offer more job opportunities and a different lifestyle from smaller towns.

Italy is considered a safe country for residents and tourists, with most crime involving non-violent theft, particularly related to petty theft and pickpocketing, which are common in tourist areas. Violent crime rates in Italy are relatively low compared to many other European countries.

Racism in Italy is a complex issue, and while Italy is a welcoming country for many, there are ongoing challenges related to racial discrimination. Racism is often directed at immigrants and people of African, Asian, and Middle Eastern descent, particularly those who come from countries with higher migration rates to Italy. Instances of xenophobia and racial discrimination have been reported, especially in urban areas and regions with significant migrant populations. Far-right political rhetoric has also contributed to anti-immigrant sentiment in some areas. However, many Italians are actively working against racism through anti-racism movements and community organizations. Italian law prohibits racial discrimination, and efforts are being made to address these issues, though challenges persist in combating racism at both social and institutional levels.

Acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people in non-major cities in Italy varies depending on the region and local culture. In general, larger cities tend to be more open and accepting, with established LGBTQIA+ communities and events like Pride parades. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, attitudes can be more conservative.

In non-major cities and more rural regions, LGBTQIA+ individuals may face less visibility and fewer resources, such as LGBTQIA+-friendly spaces or advocacy groups. That said, attitudes are slowly changing, and younger generations tend to be more accepting and supportive of LGBTQIA+ rights.

Italy does have national anti-discrimination laws that protect LGBTQIA+ people, but the level of social acceptance can depend heavily on the specific community. In recent years, LGBTQIA+ visibility and advocacy have increased across the country, though challenges remain in smaller towns.

Most of Italy is at risk of earthquakes with the exception of Sardegna.  However, areas around Abruzzo, Marche, and Sicily see more earthquakes than other regions.  Floods can be more prominent in the north and volcanos in the south, particularly in Sicily.

Whether it’s easier to move to a smaller town or larger city in Italy depends on your preferences and lifestyle needs. Larger cities like Rome or Milan offer more job opportunities, modern infrastructure, and a greater presence of expat communities, making integration easier for foreigners. English is more commonly spoken, and there's access to international services, though the cost of living is higher. In contrast, smaller towns offer a quieter, more authentic Italian experience, often at a lower cost. However, adjusting to local life can take more time due to language barriers and a less diverse community.

Be sure to download the ebooks for the top picks of 7% towns for more details. https://smartmoveitaly.com/flattaxbooks

Yes, you can convert your German driver's license to an Italian one if you are a resident in Italy. The conversion process can be done at the local motorizzazione (motor vehicle department).

If you hold a driver’s license from Australia, Canada, or the United States, you cannot directly convert it to an Italian one without taking the necessary driving tests in Italy. Italy does not have license exchange agreements with these countries, unlike some other nations. Therefore, if you move to Italy and establish residency, you can use your foreign license for up to one year, after which you'll need to apply for an Italian license. This involves passing the theoretical and practical driving tests, both of which are in Italian.

If you plan to rent a car in Italy for just a few months, you do not need a special Italian driver’s license. You can use your foreign driver’s license for up to one year, provided you also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), which serves as a translation of your home country’s license. The IDP is required for non-EU citizens and should be obtained in your home country before traveling to Italy. EU citizens can rent a car using their EU-issued license without the need for an IDP.

You must obtain residency to buy and register a car in Italy The Visa will permit you to follow through with this process.

Yes, you can drive your foreign-registered car to Italy and use it there, but the one-year rule applies. This means you can legally drive your car in Italy for up to one year without having to register it in the country, provided your insurance and registration are valid. After this period, if you plan to stay longer, you must register your car in Italy and switch to Italian plates. The one-year rule exists to ensure vehicles used in Italy for extended periods comply with local regulations, including taxes and safety standards. Additionally, it helps authorities prevent issues like tax evasion or avoiding local road regulations. After one year, you'll need to follow Italy’s registration process, which includes inspections and fees.

Yes, you can legally use a friend's car in Italy as long as the car is insured and you have the proper documentation, such as a valid driver's license (and an International Driving Permit if required). However, the insurance policy should allow for multiple drivers, including non-Italian residents, and you should verify that you are covered as a driver under the policy.

As for "gifting" a car to an Italian for the purpose of using it while you’re there on a tourist visa, this could raise legal issues. Gifting a car to avoid registering or insuring it in your own name might be seen as a way to circumvent local laws. Italy requires that the actual owner of the car be listed on the registration, and using a car that’s been transferred in this manner could be considered fraudulent if the intent is to bypass proper registration or tax regulations. It’s best to ensure any car you use is properly insured and registered in compliance with Italian law.