Home Commercial News The legal steps to obtain residency in Italy

The legal steps to obtain residency in Italy

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy
Image © gurgenb
Dimensions – Adobe Stock

If you are attracted by the charm of Italy, then moving there is definitely an option to consider. Why? Simply because the country and the people are welcoming, but also because you could invest in your own little business and make money while enjoying spectacular views all day long.

If the lines above convinced you, then you should also read the ones below to find out how exactly you can become an Italian resident.

Conditions for EU and non-EU citizens


While it is true that you don’t need to do much if you are an EU national, you do need to apply for a resident permit in Italy if you come from a non-EU state. Even so, you don’t need to worry as the Italian authorities are quite efficient, and will get your residence card in no time, if you respect a few steps.

What are the steps to respect?


Here they are:

  1. find out if you need an entry visa;
  2. get acquainted with the regulations that apply to you based on the reason for relocation;
  3. prepare the immigration papers and submit them to the nearest Italian Embassy or Consulate;
  4. buy a plane ticket and move;
  5. apply for the resident permit once you arrive in the country;
  6. register for taxes and public health insurance.

Entry visa and reason for immigration


You will most likely need an entry visa for Italy, which is easy to obtain. However, the decisive step is to choose the appropriate immigration pathway. Here are your options:

  • work;
  • business setup;
  • elective residence, which is a non-lucrative visa.

For each of them, you need to meet specific requirements, which can be explained in detail by an immigration professional, so that you make the right decision.

Immigration papers


Pay attention to have the following when applying for a residence permit for Italy:

  • a valid passport;
  • a valid health insurance;
  • proof of accommodation;
  • a bank statement indicating you have the means to support yourself until you start earning there.

Make sure you find accommodation before arriving in Italy. Luckily, this is a country where it is not difficult to rent a place, nor are the prices skyrocketing, such as is the case in Spain, for example.

Entry and settlement


You made it, you are in Italy! Don’t make yourself too comfortable yet. Organize your things and make sure that in the next 8 days you apply for the residence permit. Then, make an appointment to have your stay registered with the local police station. Also, register for taxation and social security.

How long can you stay in Italy based on your residence permit?


The validity of the permit is from 6 months to 2 years. However, it can be renewed, especially if you plan to remain here indefinitely. For this to happen, you need to live there for at least 5 years.

These are the legal steps to become a temporary and then permanent resident in Italy, if you wish so. From the decision to the actual relocation, it can take a few months, and at their end, you will find yourself living la dolce vita.

 

This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. AFP editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.

Support AFP