How to Migrate to Italy from the U.S.

Embarking on a journey to relocate from the U.S. to Italy is an exciting endeavor, but it requires thorough preparation and understanding of various legal and practical aspects. This guide aims to address common questions and provide insights into essential considerations for a smooth transition.

Visa Requirements and the 90/180 Rule

If you plan to visit Italy before committing to a long-term stay, be aware of the Schengen 90/180 rule—you can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Overstaying leads to penalties or difficulties with future visa applications.

For stays exceeding 90 days within a 180-day period, U.S. citizens must obtain an appropriate visa prior to entering Italy. The type of visa depends on your purpose of stay, such as work, study, or family reunification. It’s crucial to apply for the visa through the Italian consulate that has jurisdiction over your U.S. residence.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen area. If you plan to stay in Italy for more than 90 days, you’ll need a different type of visa. Get more information about the different types of Italian visas.

Permesso di Soggiorno (Residence Permit)

Upon arrival in Italy, you must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) within eight working days. This permit legitimizes your stay beyond the visa’s duration. Applications are submitted at the local Questura (police headquarters) corresponding to your place of residence in Italy.

Read one of our other articles and find out how to obtain your Permesso di Soggiorno.

Codice Fiscale (Tax Identification Number)

The Codice Fiscale is an essential tax identification number required for various activities, including opening a bank account, signing a lease, or setting up utilities. You can obtain it through the Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate). While it’s possible to apply for a Codice Fiscale at an Italian consulate in the U.S., many find it more straightforward to acquire it upon arrival in Italy.

Learn more about the Codice Fiscale and how to get one.

Driver’s License Considerations

For vacations or short visits, foreign drivers can use their existing license in Italy, but carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended to avoid language barriers when dealing with authorities. If relocating long-term, non-EU citizens can use their home country’s license for up to a year, provided they have an IDP, but must eventually obtain an Italian driver’s license through the Motorizzazione Civile.

Italy does not have a reciprocal agreement with the U.S. for driver’s license conversion. Therefore, U.S. citizens must undergo the Italian driving examination process, which includes both written and practical tests. There is no option to take them in English. It’s advisable to enroll in a local driving school (autoscuola) to prepare adequately. The Guida e Vai app is a valuable resource, offering practice questions and study materials to assist in exam preparation.

Read more about driving in Italy.

Start Learning Italian Now

Learning Italian is a crucial step toward a smooth transition to life in Italy. While immersion is one of the best ways to learn, starting with a structured approach will make the process easier.

Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise offer interactive lessons that cover vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. For a more immersive experience, italki and Tandem connect learners with native Italian speakers for conversation practice.

Additionally, watching Italian TV shows, listening to podcasts like “ItalianPod101”, and reading simple books or newspapers will help reinforce language skills.

 

How Can I Bring My Pet?

Bringing your pet to Italy requires careful planning to meet both airline and government regulations. First, your pet must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. A veterinary health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian is required within 10 days of departure, and it must be officially endorsed by the USDA.

Airlines have specific rules regarding pet travel, including weight limits and carrier size restrictions. It’s important to check airline-specific policies ahead of time, as some carriers have breed restrictions or seasonal limitations. Read more about traveling to Italy with pets.

Additional Considerations

• Healthcare: Enrolling in Italy’s national health service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) provides access to public healthcare services.
• Banking: Opening a local bank account facilitates financial transactions, including bill payments and receiving income.