An expat’s guide to living in Italy

More than five million foreign citizens choose to live in Italy, drawn by the promise of la dolce vita. Its sun-drenched shores, world-famous cuisine and rich culture make it an attractive destination for professionals and retirees alike, particularly for the latter seeking a more laid-back work-life balance.

But while the lifestyle might be easy-going, adjusting to it could be more complex, and relocating to the Bel Paese could mean first understanding and then wrestling with its complex bureaucracy. Whether it’s regional tax variations or attaining residency status, careful planning and consideration should be undertaken before upping sticks and making the move.

In this guide, we look at everything you need to know about moving to live and work in

Italy, including the cultural differences, healthcare costs and educational

opportunities.

Is living in Italy expensive?

The cost of living in Italy will vary depending on the region, with towns, particularly those in the south of the country, cheaper to live in than the major international cities. As per an analysis by Housing Anywhere, the average monthly housing cost in Italy is $1,070, making it one of the more affordable Western European countries.

Expats should consider taking out a health insurance policy. These plans offer comprehensive coverage tailored to the specific needs of expatriates, including access to private hospitals and clinics, emergency medical evacuation services, and coverage for pre-existing conditions. Comprehensive health insurance could provide peace of mind and ensure access to quality healthcare without the complexities of navigating the public healthcare system.

According to the 2024 food price index, the relative cost of groceries in Italy is cheaper than in comparable economies such as the UK and Belgium. The cost of dining out is comparable to the USA, with lunchtime meals in major cities around $14-17, and you can expect to spend less than $14 outside of the urban centres, according to expat advice service International Citizens. It makes for good news for expats who want to enjoy Italian cuisine without breaking the bank.

Overall life in Italy is as much as 30 to 70 per cent cheaper than living in the USA, depending on the location. As International Living reports, expats could save significant sums both in healthcare and transport costs with a 280-mile round trip from Rome to Naples costing just over $30 on the train and the country’s healthcare system largely free at the point of use.

This makes Italy an appealing prospect both for retirees and expats of working age, who could make their savings and wages go further than they might in the US or other modern economies.

Is healthcare free in Italy for foreigners?

The Italian public healthcare system, the SSN, is considered among the world’s best. Citizens of the European Union and residents of countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements with Italy will be eligible for healthcare services under the European Health Insurance Card or its successor scheme, the European Health Insurance Card.

Non-EU citizens residing legally in Italy may access healthcare services through the SSN, under certain conditions. Expatriates with a valid residence permit and registered with the Italian tax authorities are entitled to enrol in the SSN and receive healthcare coverage similar to Italian citizens. However, a recent announcement by the Italian government means non-EU foreign residents could soon face a $2,000 bill each year to access the SSN.

For short-term visitors or tourists without residency status, healthcare in Italy might come at a cost. Non-residents may need to pay out-of-pocket for medical treatment or obtain private health insurance to cover healthcare expenses during their stay.

To mitigate the tax burden, expatriates in China can take advantage of certain tax exemptions and deductions available under Chinese tax laws. For example, certain allowances and benefits provided by employers, such as housing allowances and education subsidies, may be partially or fully exempt from taxation.

Do you need to learn the language in Italy?

Around a third of the Italian population is proficient in English – compared to more than half of Germans and over 90 per cent of Dutch citizens. So, expats from the US, UK and other English-speaking nations will likely need to get to grips with the Italian language and would benefit further by becoming fluent in it.

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among the younger generation, particularly in urban centres, fewer people tend to speak English in rural areas and among the older generation. A basic knowledge of Italian can be invaluable for tasks such as grocery shopping, communicating with healthcare providers, and navigating bureaucratic processes.

As in many countries, taking the time to learn the native language helps to foster deeper cultural understanding and build relationships. Fluency in Italian could open doors to new experiences and opportunities, enabling expatriates to forge genuine connections with Italians and immerse themselves in the country’s vibrant culture.

A fluency in Italian could be particularly beneficial in the workplace, where just 13 per cent of Italians speak the language in the course of their working day. While some international companies and industries may operate primarily in English, many employers value employees who can communicate effectively in Italian, particularly in customer-facing roles or sectors with strong ties to the local market.

Fortunately, Italian is considered one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn and there are numerous resources available to support language learning in Italy. Expatriates can enrol in language courses, participate in language exchange programs, or practice with language-learning apps and take advantage of online resources.

Is the education system good in Italy?

Italian public schools provide free education to residents and citizens, offering a curriculum that emphasizes academic rigour and cultural immersion. While this may be suitable for some expatriate families looking to integrate fully into Italian society, language barriers and differences in teaching methods can pose challenges for non-Italian-speaking children.

For expats seeking an alternative to the Italian education system, there are around 90 international schools in the country to choose from. These schools follow curricula from various countries, such as the International Baccalaureate or the British or American systems, offering instruction in English as well as other languages. International schools can provide a more familiar educational environment for foreign children, with smaller class sizes, diverse student populations, and experienced teachers accustomed to working with multicultural students.

However, access to international schools may be limited outside of major cities, and tuition fees can be substantial. In some cities, fees can be as high as $21,000 per academic year. It is important to carefully consider the financial implications and availability of international schooling options when planning their relocation to Italy.

Moving to Italy checklist

Visa and Residency: Ensure you have the appropriate visa for your stay in Italy, whether it’s for work, study, or residence. Become familiar with the necessary documents and requirements for obtaining residency.
Housing: Start searching for accommodation well in advance. Consider factors like location, budget, and amenities. Whether renting or buying, research the local real estate market and arrange viewings.
Finances: Open an Italian bank account and consider transferring funds internationally. Understand currency exchange rates and any banking regulations that may apply to expatriates.
Healthcare: Investigate healthcare options in Italy, including public healthcare, private insurance, and EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) coverage. Register with the Italian National Health Service (SSN) if applicable.
Language and Culture: Familiarize yourself with Italian language basics to ease communication and integration. Learn about Italian customs, etiquette, and cultural norms to adapt smoothly to your new environment.
Transportation: Research transportation options in your chosen city, such as public transit, driving regulations, and obtaining a driver’s license if necessary. Consider the convenience of location in relation to your daily commute.
Legal and Administrative Tasks: Arrange necessary legal documents, such as permits, tax identification numbers, and registrations for utilities and services.
Packing and Shipping: Make a detailed packing list and consider shipping belongings in advance. Be mindful of Italian customs regulations and import duties.
Network and Support: Connect with expatriate communities, local organizations, and support groups to ease your transition and build a social network in Italy.
Enjoy the Experience: Embrace the adventure of living in Italy! Explore the rich culture, cuisine, and beauty of your new home while adapting to the Italian way of life.

Is Italy a good country to move to?

While Italy offers a wealth of opportunities for expatriates drawn to its vibrant lifestyle and cultural heritage, it also presents challenges, particularly the cost of schooling and the language barrier. But by taking the time to prepare expats can navigate these hurdles and land a new life in the sun where their money could go further and work days might be shorter.

The country boasts a rich tapestry of experiences which many find enrich their lives and broaden their horizons. By planning for the complexities and embracing the joys of life in Italy, individuals and families can create lasting memories and forge meaningful connections in their adopted homes.