Italy Country Guide
Your Essential Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Italy
Important: This guide offers essential information for individuals and families relocating to the Italian Republic. Italy is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse regions, Mediterranean lifestyle, world-class cuisine, and strong industries such as fashion, manufacturing, design, engineering, tourism and agriculture. Visa rules and residency procedures may differ based on your purpose of stay. Always verify the latest requirements with official Italian government sources before relocating.
Home To Home Relocations assists clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Italy, including export packing, air and ocean shipping, customs coordination and final delivery to major Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, Turin, Bologna, Venice and Genoa.
1. Before You Move to Italy
1.1 Visa Types & Residence Permits (Permesso di Soggiorno)
Most non-EU citizens require a visa to enter Italy for long stays and must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 days of arrival. Visa categories include:
- Work Visa (Lavoro Subordinato or Lavoro Autonomo)
- Study Visa for university or academic programmes
- Elective Residency Visa for financially independent individuals
- Family Reunification Visa
- Investor Visa
Official information:
1.2 Working in Italy
To work in Italy, your employer may need to request authorisation from the immigration office before your visa appointment. Key industries include fashion, luxury goods, automotive, engineering, tourism, hospitality, design, and agriculture.
1.3 Studying in Italy
Italy hosts prestigious universities such as the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome and Politecnico di Milano. International students must apply for a study visa and later obtain a student residence permit.
1.4 Housing & Accommodation
Housing varies greatly across regions. Milan, Rome and Florence tend to have higher prices. Rental requirements often include:
- Proof of income or employment
- Identification and visa/residence permit
- One–three months’ security deposit
- Rental contract registration (usually required)
1.5 Banking & Finances
Italy uses the Euro (EUR). A local bank account is required for rent, utilities, salary deposits and government services. Many Italian banks require a Codice Fiscale (tax number) to open an account.
1.6 Healthcare (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale – SSN)
Italy provides universal public healthcare through the SSN. Many newcomers register once they have a residence permit. Emergency care is accessible regardless of residency status.
1.7 Documents to Prepare Before Moving
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Visa approval documents
- Employment contract or university acceptance
- Marriage/birth certificates for dependants
- Proof of accommodation in Italy
- Financial documentation
- Private medical insurance
2. Your First Weeks in Italy
2.1 Apply for Your Residence Permit
You must apply for your Permesso di Soggiorno within 8 days of arriving in Italy. The application is submitted at a post office (Sportello Amico) and processed by the local Questura (police headquarters).
2.2 Codice Fiscale – Italian Tax Number
The Codice Fiscale is required for almost all administrative processes, including employment, housing contracts, utilities, banking and healthcare registration.
2.3 Registering for Healthcare (SSN)
Once eligible, register with the regional health authority (ASL) and choose a family doctor (medico di base).
2.4 Bank Account Setup
You may need your Codice Fiscale, residence documentation, proof of address and ID to open an account.
3. Italy at a Glance
3.1 Regions & Geography
Italy is divided into 20 regions, each with distinct culture, climate and cuisine. Notable regions include Lombardy, Tuscany, Lazio, Sicily, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna.
3.2 Politics & Economy
Italy is a parliamentary republic and a founding EU member. Key industries include manufacturing, automotive, fashion, food production, tourism, aerospace and design.
3.3 Climate & Weather
Italy’s climate ranges from Mediterranean in the south to alpine in the north. Summers are hot and dry; winters vary from mild to snowy depending on region.
4. Why Many Canadians Choose Italy
- Beautiful landscapes, rich art and cultural heritage
- Warm Mediterranean lifestyle
- High-quality food, wine and culinary traditions
- Affordable regional living outside major cities
- Centrally located for European travel
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
Life in Italy varies widely depending on the region. Major northern cities like Milan are modern and business-focused, while southern areas offer a slower lifestyle and lower cost of living. Expect expenses such as:
- Utilities (electricity, gas, water)
- Condominium fees (spese condominiali)
- Transportation passes
- Healthcare contributions (if required)
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Major cities such as Rome, Milan, Turin and Naples have extensive metro, bus and tram networks. Smaller towns rely on regional buses and trains.
6.2 National Rail System
Italy’s train network is operated by Trenitalia and high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Italo) connect major cities efficiently.
6.3 Driving in Italy
Italy drives on the right-hand side. Many historic city centres have restricted zones (ZTL), and parking can be limited.
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Warm community values and family-centric culture
- Strong emphasis on food, coffee and culinary traditions
- Appreciation for art, architecture and history
- Relaxed lifestyle in many regions
7.2 Major Cities & Attractions
- Rome: Colosseum, Vatican City, ancient monuments
- Florence: Renaissance art and architecture
- Milan: Fashion, business, Duomo
- Venice: Canals and historic beauty
- Amalfi Coast: Scenic coastlines and villages