Can you move to Italy?

Italian citizenship may be acquired through naturalisation by eligible foreign nationals who satisfy the legal residence, integration and nationality requirements established under Italian law. Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate continuous lawful residence, good conduct and compliance with the applicable statutory conditions.

Italy offers a Digital Nomad Visa for eligible applicants who work remotely for foreign employers or clients. The visa is intended for highly skilled non-European Union nationals. Applicants are required to demonstrate professional experience or skills, sufficient financial resources, and appropriate accommodation and health insurance. A 'Permesso di Soggiorno' (residence permit) is required following entry into Italy, which must be applied for within the first eight working days of arrival.

Foreign nationals who have legally resided in Italy for the qualifying period may apply for the EU Long-Term Residence Permit, provided they satisfy the legal requirements established under Italian immigration law. Permanent residence provides greater long-term stability and removes the need for regular renewal of temporary residence permits. Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate continuous lawful residence, suitable accommodation, and an appropriate level of Italian language proficiency. Additional eligibility requirements may apply depending on the applicant's circumstances.

Processing times for Italian visas and residence permits vary depending on the visa category, the diplomatic mission processing the application, and whether additional verification or authorizations are required. High application volumes and incomplete documentation may increase processing times. Following arrival in Italy, applicants generally complete additional formalities, including applying for a residence permit and attending biometric appointments where required.

The documentation required for Italian visas and residence permits depends on the type of visa, the purpose of stay and the applicant's personal circumstances. Original documents are generally required during the application process. Documents issued outside Italy may require certified translation into Italian together with legalisation or an apostille where applicable.

Italy does not operate a dedicated retirement visa programme. Retirees commonly apply under the Elective Residence Visa (Residenza Elettiva), which is intended for financially independent foreign nationals who can support themselves without employment in Italy. Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate stable passive income, suitable accommodation and comprehensive health insurance. Employment in Italy is generally not permitted under this residence category. Proof of accommodation is required and health insurance is generally required. Successful applicants may obtain a residence permit that is renewable subject to continued compliance with Italian immigration requirements.

Italy distinguishes between short-stay Schengen visas and long-stay national visas for foreign nationals intending to live, work, study, retire, or establish a business in the country. Citizens of European Union and European Economic Area member states generally benefit from freedom of movement and are not required to obtain a visa to reside in Italy, subject to registration requirements. Long-term residence permits are issued for specific purposes, including employment, self-employment, study, family reunification, and retirement. Eligible long-term residents may later qualify for permanent residence or Italian citizenship under Italian immigration and nationality law.

Italy offers several work-related residence pathways for foreign nationals who have secured employment with an Italian employer. Admission for many non-European Union nationals is subject to annual immigration quotas established by the Italian Government under the Decreto Flussi programme. Certain categories of highly skilled workers, researchers, executives, and intra-company transferees may qualify under separate immigration provisions. Following arrival in Italy, successful applicants generally apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno), which allows them to reside and work legally for the duration of the approved employment. Some highly skilled workers qualify under separate immigration programs.