Moving to Italy: 7 things you need to know

Are you an expat living in Italy, or planning to move there? You’ve made a great choice! But there are some things you should know to make your move as smooth as possible and avoid unexpected red tape. At N26, we’ve put together a short guide for expats covering all the questions, needs and obstacles you might face when settling in Italy.
Italian flag and barcode.

Your checklist on moving to Italy

Download your checklist here
checklist on moving to Italy.

No two experiences are alike, which is why the information in the infographic above is for general reference only. Processes and procedures may differ depending on your situation, which is why it’s important to conduct your own research, and seek professional advice as needed. Oh, and the creators of this infographic are not liable for any errors or damages resulting from its use.
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1. Residence permits and visas

The first step once you arrive in Italy is to apply for a residence permit (and a visa in some cases). But who is required to apply for these documents? What are the requirements to get them? And what about the process and costs?Find out everything you need to know about the difference between a visa and residence permit, as well as what types of permits are available in Italy. 
illustration of residency.

2. How to get healthcare

In Italy, the public healthcare is free; the Italian national health service (Servizio sanitario nazionale, or SSN) isn’t always available to foreign citizens, but don’t worry: whether you’re an EU or non-EU citizen, with private insurance and the public health service, you’ll never go without healthcare.Here you’ll find all cases where access to the SSN is either a right or a requirement, as well as other ways of getting health insurance.
illustration of health insurance.

3. Finding a job

Speaking of residence permits and moving to Italy, one of the main reasons people move here is to find work. But what are the legal requirements for job seeking? And which sectors are the easiest for expats to find work in?Read our tips on the world of work in Italy, from the paperwork expats need, through to jobs where expats actually have an advantage.
illustration of working contracts.

4. Cost of living and expenses

Italy isn’t one of the most expensive countries in Europe, but it’s not the cheapest either. Expats need to know about the various costs of living: how much you have to spend to maintain a house, travel by car or public transport, and for healthcare and other basic necessities.Find out more about the cost of living in Italy and what are the most expensive and cheapest places to live.
illustration of cost of life.

5. Finding a home to rent

For expats, finding a home often means renting. The best way to find rentals is online, but don’t overlook other channels either!Our guide explains what documents you’ll need to sign a contract, how much it costs to rent a home in Italy, how much it cost to move and what types of rental contracts there are.
illustration of someone looking for home.

6. Obtaining Italian citizenship

The ultimate goal for expats who’ve been in Italy for a long time is to get citizenship! But how does that work? You can become a citizen in two ways: through marriage to an Italian citizen, or by having residency for a certain number of years. But both situations have various conditions.Read our post to learn more about all the options, and find out about the requirements, documents and processing times for obtaining Italian citizenship.
illustration of italian visa.

7. Open an Italian bank account

In order to manage your money effectively, the first thing you’ll need is an Italian bank account. The good news? Once you’ve compiled all the documents, opening an account is easier than you might think. With N26, it takes minutes—right from your smartphone.Learn all about the different account types, cards, and how to open a bank account in Italy here—and discover the best accounts for expats.
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Relevant Links

Being an expat in Rome

Being an expat in Turin

Being an expat in Milan

Being an expat in Naples

Find a plan for you

N26 Standard

The free* online bank account

The N26 virtual card.
Virtual Card

€0.00/month

  • A virtual debit card

  • Free payments worldwide

  • Deposit protection

Open free bank account

N26 Smart

The bank account that gives you more control

N26 You card, Teal.
N26 You card, Ash.
N26 You card, Wheat.
N26 You card, Petrol.
N26 You card, Rhubarb.

€4.90/month

  • Free Virtual Card

  • Up to 10 Spaces sub-accounts

  • Support Center phone number

  • Round-ups

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POPULAR

N26 You

The debit card for everyday and travel

N26 You card, Rhubarb.
N26 You card, Petrol.
N26 You card, Wheat.
N26 You card, Ash.
N26 You card, Teal.

€9.90/month

  • Up to 5 free withdrawals in the Eurozone

  • Flight and luggage delay cover

  • Medical emergency cover

  • Winter activities insurance

  • Pandemic coverage

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N26 Metal

The premium account with a metal card

N26 Metal - Slate Grey.
N26 Metal - Charcoal Black.
Quartz Rose - N26 Metal Card.

€16.90/month

  • An 18-gram metal card

  • Up to 8 free withdrawals in the Eurozone

  • Purchase protection

  • Phone insurance

  • Dedicated N26 Metal line

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