How to Move to Italy from the UK in 2026: Complete Post-Brexit Guide

Italy continues to attract thousands of British expats each year. From historic cities and Mediterranean coastlines to world-famous cuisine and a relaxed pace of life, the country offers a lifestyle many people dream about.

However, moving to Italy from the UK now requires more planning than before. Since Brexit, British citizens are no longer covered by EU freedom of movement rules. This means relocating to Italy involves visas, residency permits, and specific immigration procedures.

The good news is that UK citizens can still move to Italy in 2026. 

You can visit Italy for tourism or business (not work) visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, but staying longer to work, retire, study, or join family requires applying for a long-stay visa (Type D) before traveling.
After arriving, you must also apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 working days.

This guide explains how to move to Italy from the UK step by step, including visa options, the rules that changed after Brexit, the residence permit process, expected costs, and a practical relocation checklist to help you plan your move with confidence.

(Article Updated May 2026)

Can You Move to Italy from the UK After Brexit?

Yes, UK citizens can still move to Italy after Brexit, but the process has changed significantly. Since the UK left the European Union, British nationals are treated as third-country nationals under EU immigration rules. This means that while short visits remain simple, moving to Italy long-term now requires a visa and residence permit.

UK citizens can still travel to Italy visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period under the Schengen rules for business (which is different from work) or tourism/visit family.

However, if you want to perform work activities or stay longer to work, retire, study, start a business, or join family members, you must apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) before traveling. After arriving in Italy, you must also apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 working days of arrival.

What Changed After Brexit

Before Brexit, UK citizens could live and work in Italy freely under EU freedom of movement rules. 

Moving required little paperwork and no visa. Today, the situation is different.

Before Brexit

• No visa required to live in Italy
• Automatic right to work
• Simple residency registration with local authorities
• Freedom of movement across the EU

After Brexit

• UK citizens are treated as non-EU nationals
• Long-stay visas are required for stays longer than 90 days in any 180-day period. 
• Work permits are required for any work activity (even remotely)  
• Residency must be obtained through the permesso di soggiorno

These changes mean that planning a move now involves choosing the correct visa and preparing the required documentation in advance.

The 90-Day Rule Explained

Without a visa, UK citizens can stay in Italy and the wider Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Important things to know about the rule:

• The 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen Area, not just Italy
• The 180-day period is rolling, not based on calendar months
• Leaving the Schengen Area briefly does not reset the clock

For example, if you spend 60 days in Italy and 30 days in Spain, you have used the full 90-day allowance. Anyone planning to stay longer must apply for an appropriate Italian long-stay visa before traveling.

ETIAS Starting in 2026

From the end of 2026, UK citizens will also need an ETIAS travel authorization when visiting Italy for short stays (<90 days, not covered by any long-stay visa). ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System.

Key points:

• It is not a visa
• It is a simple online travel authorization
• It will apply to visa-free visitors to the Schengen Area
• It will usually be approved within minutes or hours

ETIAS will only apply to short visits under 90 days.
Anyone planning to move to Italy will still need the appropriate long-stay visa and residence permit.

Italian Visa Options for UK Citizens in 2026

UK citizens who want to stay in Italy longer than 90 days must apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) before traveling. The right visa depends on the reason for your move, such as employment, retirement, remote work, or joining family members already living in Italy.

In 2026, UK citizens typically choose between six main visa pathways. Each option has different eligibility rules, income requirements, and application procedures, so selecting the correct route is essential before starting the process.

Italy Digital Nomad Visa

The Italy Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and highly skilled professionals to live in Italy while working for employers or clients outside the country. Since its introduction, it has quickly become one of the most popular options for professionals relocating from the UK.

Typical requirements include:

• Proof of remote employment or freelance work
• Minimum-income threshold ( min. approx. Eur 25.500/year net)
• Private health insurance
• Proof of long-term accommodation in Italy
• Professional qualifications or experience (depending on the role and profile)

This visa is particularly attractive for remote employees, consultants, and freelancers who want to base themselves in Italy while continuing their international work.

Italy Elective Residency Visa (Retirement)

The Elective Residency Visa is a common option for UK citizens who want to move to Italy without working, particularly retirees and financially independent individuals.

Applicants must show they can support themselves through passive income such as pensions, investments, or rental income.

Typical requirements include:

• Minimum income of €31,500 per year for a single applicant
• Higher income thresholds for couples and families 
• Proof of 12+ months of accommodation in Italy
• Private health insurance
• A commitment not to work in Italy

Many British retirees choose this pathway because it offers a straightforward route to long-term residency.

Italy Investor Visa (Golden Visa)

The Italy Investor Visa, often referred to as the Golden Visa, allows non-EU nationals to obtain residency by making a qualifying investment in Italy.

Investment options include:

• €250,000 investment in an innovative Italian startup
• €500,000 investment in an Italian company (whether private or public)
• €2 million investment in Italian government bonds
• €1 million philanthropic donation to a public-interest project

One of the main advantages of this visa is that the investment is only required after the visa is approved, which reduces financial risk during the application stage.

Compared to the standard visa routes, the Investor Visa offers several practical advantages:

• Faster, more predictable process: Reviewed by a dedicated government committee, not subject to Consular discretion and fast-tracked at every step.
• More flexibility – Freedom of movement and stay: No minimum stay or housing requirements; you can spend as much or as little time in Italy as you wish.
• No work restrictions – Freedom of employment: Allows employment or business activity if desired.
• No immediate housing or tax residency: No need to secure a 12-month lease before your entry, and greater control over your tax position compared to ERV, which often implies full residency obligations.
• No income thresholds: It requires an eligible investment, not proof of ongoing income. Only proof of available funds (~€8,500) is needed to show self-sufficiency in addition to the investment funds.
• Longer validity: Granted for 2 years, renewable for 3 more, vs. 1 year at a time for ERV.

Italy Family-based route 

UK citizens can move to Italy through family reunification if they have close relatives legally living in the country, whether EU citizens or not.

The Italy Family Visa allows family members to join spouses or children who already hold legal residence in Italy. Other family ties may also be eligible.

Typical requirements include:

• Documented proof of the family relationship via official documents
• Evidence that the sponsoring family member has sufficient income
• Suitable accommodation in Italy
• A Family Nulla Osta issued by the local Immigration authority (if applicable, for Non-EU family members sponsoring the application) + a Family visa

Family-based permits allow dependents to live in Italy, work or study once residency is granted.

Italy Study Visa

The Italy Study Visa allows UK citizens to live in Italy while enrolled in an educational program. This visa is commonly used by students attending:

• Italian universities
• Language schools (intermediate-advanced)
• Academic exchange programs
• Professional training courses

Applicants must provide:

• Proof of enrollment in an Italian institution sponsoring the visa
• Evidence of financial support
• Accommodation in Italy
• Health insurance coverage

Students can remain in Italy for the duration of their studies and may later transition to another residence permit depending on their situation.

Italy Work Visa (subordinate work in Italy or international secondment)

The Italy Work Visa allows UK citizens to live and work in Italy for an Italian employer, or be seconded on an international assignment. 

However, this route can be more complex because it requires employer sponsorship.

The process and requirements depend on the worker’s profile, employment structure, and activities to be performed. 

Key points include:

• A confirmed job offer from an Italian company
• Employer application for a work permit (nulla osta)
• May be subject to annual immigration quotas under the Decreto Flussi – Extra quota profiles are not subject.
• A residence permit is required after arrival

If falling under the quota system, obtaining a work visa can depend heavily on timing and employer preparation.

How to Move to Italy from the UK: Step-by-Step Process

To move to Italy from the UK, you must apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) before traveling, if your procedure requires so. The application is placed at the Italian Consulate competent for your place of registered and legal residence.

After arriving in Italy, you must apply for a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 working days, obtain a codice fiscale, and register your residency with the local municipality.

In most cases, the entire relocation process takes three to six months, depending on the visa category and how quickly documents are prepared.

Before You Leave the UK (3–6 Months Before)

Most of the preparation happens before you travel to Italy.

1. Determine your immigration route/ visa category

Choose the immigration route that matches your reason for moving, such as:

• Digital Nomad Visa (freelancers-self employed/ employees-remote workers)
• Elective Residency Visa (retirement benefits or other passive income)
• Investor Visa
• Family routes
• Study Visa
• Work Visa

Choosing the correct immigration route is important because each pathway has different requirements. Most of them require a visa application before entry.

2. Gather the required documents

While requirements vary by visa, most visa applications include:

• Valid UK passport
• Visa application forms
• Passport photos
• Proof of long-term accommodation in Italy
• Proof of income or financial resources (depending on the visa type)
• Private health insurance
• Supporting documents related to your visa (employment, remote work, study enrollment, family relationship)

Documents must be consistent and complete to avoid delays.

Note: Codice fiscale

The codice fiscale is your Italian tax identification number. While it does not trigger per se your tax liability, you will need it to:

• Register the rental contract (which is mandatory for most of the routes)
• open a bank account
• set up utilities
• access healthcare services

3. Apostille UK documents

Certain UK documents must be apostilled so they are legally recognized in Italy.
This often applies to:

• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Criminal record certificates
• Academic qualifications

A sworn translation into Italian is required for every document submitted in Italy.

4. Apply at the Italian Consulate through the local VFS agency

After booking the appointment for their application, UK residents will attend the appointment in person at the local VFS agency, which then forwards the application to the Italian Consulate in London, in charge of the decision process.

 During your appointment, you will:

• Provide supporting documents
• Submit your visa application along with all the required documents
• Be fingerprinted
• Attend a short interview and reply questions, if any
• Pay the visa fee

5. Wait for visa approval

Processing times typically range from 15 to 90 days, depending on the visa category and consulate workload. For most visa types, the statutory deadline is 90 days.

For the Digital Nomad visa for self-employed/freelancer and for the Self-employment visa, the Consulate has up to 120 days.

6. Travel

Before moving, you should also:

• Notify HMRC if leaving the UK long-term
• Ensure you have all the supporting documents required for your immigration process
• Apostille/Legalize any documents that may require legalization
• Get ready for the journey!

After Arrival in Italy (First steps)

Once you enter Italy with your long-stay visa, you must complete several a few mandatory steps.

1. Apply for a residence permit (“permesso di soggiorno”) within 8 working days

Visa holders must apply for a residence permit within 8 working days of arrival, in line with their visa process

The application is usually submitted through a post office with a Sportello Amico counter, where you will:

• Submit the application forms
• Pay the required fees
• Receive a receipt confirming your application

This receipt proves you applied within the legal deadline.

2. Attend your fingerprint appointment

With the submission of the application, the appointment with the Immigration office of the local Commissariato (Police station) or Questura (Police Headquarters) is also scheduled.
The appointment is scheduled based on the office’s availability, and timing varies.

The purpose of the appointment is to provide fingerprints (that’s why it’s called “fingerprint appointment”), verify your documents and eligibility, and confirm your status – approving or rejecting the application.

3. Collect your residence permit

Once your application is approved, the residence permit card will be printed at the National Mint in Rome and sent to your local immigration office.

It will be available for collection usually in 40-80 days from the fingerprint appointment.  

4. Register your address

Once you have received your residence permit card, you must register your address with the local municipality (Comune) through the residency registry known as the anagrafe. Only Investor Visa holders and their family members are exempted.

5. Register for healthcare

After your residency is confirmed, you may register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), Italy’s public healthcare system. Depending on the immigration route, enrollment may be free or subject to a fee. 

Cost of Living: Italy vs UK Comparison

For many British expats, the cost of living in Italy can be lower than in the UK, especially outside the largest cities. Everyday expenses such as rent, dining, and transportation are often more affordable, although prices vary significantly depending on the region.

Major cities like Milan and Rome are the most expensive places to live in Italy. However, smaller cities and southern regions can offer a much lower cost of living while still providing a high quality of life.

UK vs Italy Cost Comparison

The table below provides a general comparison of common monthly expenses.

While salaries may be lower in Italy, many expats find that the overall lifestyle costs are more manageable, particularly when housing expenses decrease.

Monthly Budget Breakdown by City

Living costs can vary significantly depending on where you choose to live. Here is a general overview of estimated monthly living expenses for a single person.

• Milan: €2,000–€2,700 per month
• Rome: €1,800–€2,400 per month
• Florence: €1,600–€2,200 per month
• Naples: €1,200–€1,600 per month
• Palermo or smaller southern towns: €1,000–€1,400 per month

Northern cities tend to have higher housing costs, while southern regions and smaller towns offer more affordable living.

Where Your Money Goes Furthest

If keeping living costs low is a priority, many expats look beyond the most famous cities.

Areas where your budget may stretch further include:

• Southern Italy, particularly regions like Calabria, Puglia, and Sicily
• Smaller historic towns away from major tourist centers
• Rural areas and coastal villages outside large metropolitan areas

These locations often offer lower housing prices, relaxed lifestyles, and strong local communities, making them attractive for retirees, remote workers, and families relocating from the UK.

Retiring in Italy From the UK With the Elective Residency Visa

Yes, UK citizens can retire in Italy after Brexit. The most common pathway is the Italy Elective Residence Visa, which allows financially independent individuals to live in Italy without working.

This visa is designed for retirees or individuals with stable passive income. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources, private health insurance, and confirmed accommodation in Italy. After arriving, you must also apply for a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) within This visa does not allow employment in Italy.

The 7% Flat Tax for Retirees

Italy offers a special 7% flat tax regime designed to attract foreign retirees. To qualify, you must receive pension income from a foreign source and must not have been an Italian tax resident for at least five years prior to moving.

Key features include:

• 7% flat tax on all foreign-source income
• Available for up to 10 years
• Applies to qualifying municipalities with fewer than 30,000 inhabitants in southern regions: Sicily, Calabria, Puglia, Basilicata, Campania, Sardinia, Abruzzo, and Molise
• Also available in certain earthquake-affected municipalities in Lazio, Marche, and Umbria
• Participants are exempt from wealth reporting obligations and foreign asset taxes (IVIE/IVAFE)

This program has made southern Italy particularly attractive for retirees seeking lower living costs and favorable tax treatment.

For many UK citizens, retiring in Italy combines a Mediterranean lifestyle, relatively affordable living, and access to quality healthcare, making it one of the most popular relocation options in Europe.

Healthcare in Italy for UK Expats

UK citizens moving to Italy must have private health insurance when first arriving, as it is usually required for both the visa application and the initial permesso di soggiorno. Once you become a legal resident, you can typically register with Italy’s public healthcare system, known as the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN).

Depending on the immigration route, enrollment may be for free, or subject to an annual fee which ranges on average, between €2,000 – €2,800.

Italy’s healthcare system is widely regarded as one of the strongest public systems in Europe. It provides comprehensive medical coverage similar in structure to the UK’s NHS, funded largely through taxes and regional health contributions.

Private Health Insurance (First Year)

Private health insurance is usually required during the initial stage of your relocation. Most visa types require proof of coverage before the visa is approved.

Typical requirements include:

• Cover all urgent medical expenses and the risk of illness, accident, hospitalization, emergencies, evacuation, and repatriation of remains.
• Be released in the name of each applicant and show the list of benefits covered for an insurance ceiling of a minimum of €30,000.
• Cover medical expenses for the whole Schengen Area, including Vatican City and the country of San Marino.

This insurance ensures you have access to medical care while your residence permit is being processed and before you become eligible for the public system.

Registering for Public Healthcare (SSN)

You can usually register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) once your permesso di soggiorno and residency registration are confirmed.

Registration typically takes place at your local ASL office (Azienda Sanitaria Locale).

After registering, you will receive:

• Access to a general practitioner (family doctor)
• Coverage for hospital treatment and specialist care
• Access to public clinics and healthcare services
• Reduced-cost prescriptions and treatments

The SSN provides nationwide coverage, although healthcare administration is managed regionally.

What Healthcare Costs to Expect

Healthcare costs in Italy are generally lower than in many other Western countries.

Typical costs include:

• GP visits: usually free once registered with the SSN
• Specialist appointments: often require a small co-payment known as a ticket
• Prescriptions: partially subsidized depending on the medication
• Emergency care: available through the national emergency system

Many expats choose to keep supplementary private insurance even after joining the SSN to reduce waiting times or access private clinics.

Overall, once you are a legal resident, Italy’s healthcare system offers high-quality care with relatively low out-of-pocket costs, making it one of the key advantages of relocating to the country.

Working in Italy as a UK Citizen

UK citizens can still work in Italy after Brexit, but the process now requires both a long-stay visa and a residence permit. In most cases, this means obtaining a work visa sponsored by an Italian employer or qualifying under another visa category that permits professional activity, such as the Digital Nomad Visa or the Investor visa route.

Because UK citizens are now treated as non-EU nationals, employment in Italy typically involves additional authorization steps before you can legally begin working.

Finding Employment in Italy

The most traditional route to working in Italy is securing a job with an Italian employer. The employer must first obtain a work permit authorization (nulla osta) before you can apply for a work visa.

Important factors to consider:

• Work visas are often subject to annual immigration quotas under the Decreto Flussi system
• Employers must sponsor the permit application
• Processing timelines can depend on government quotas and administrative workload

Common sectors where foreign professionals may find opportunities include tourism, hospitality, international business, technology, and language education.

Certain roles and professions can apply outside the quota system, through more favourable routes such as the EU Blue Card or Intra-Company Transfers (ICT)

Starting a Business in Italy

UK citizens who want to start a company or work independently may qualify through the Self-Employment Visa, though this is one of the most challenging routes.

This pathway may involve:

• Approval from the Italian Chamber of Commerce
• Proof that your business activity meets regulatory requirements
• Evidence of sufficient financial resources
• A viable business plan, in some cases

Entrepreneurs, consultants, and freelancers often use this visa to establish professional activity in Italy.

Remote Working from Italy

Remote work has become an increasingly popular option for British professionals moving to Italy.

The Italy Digital Nomad Visa allows highly skilled professionals to live in Italy while working for companies or clients remotely. 

Typical eligibility requirements include:

• Proof of remote employment or freelance activity
• Proof of a highly qualified profession (+additional requirements if it’s a regulated profession)
• Minimum income threshold > €25.000/year
• Professional qualifications or relevant work experience
• Private health insurance
• Confirmed long-term accommodation

For many UK citizens, this visa provides a practical way to enjoy life in Italy while maintaining an international career.

Buying or Renting Property in Italy

UK citizens can buy or rent property in Italy, even after Brexit. Thanks to a reciprocal agreement between the two countries, British nationals with legal residency in Italy are generally allowed to purchase property without restrictions.

Many expats choose to rent first before buying, giving them time to explore different regions and understand local property markets.

Renting in Italy

Renting is often the simplest option when first moving to Italy. Long-term rental contracts are common, and leases typically run for 3+2 years or 4+4 years, depending on the agreement.

To rent a property in Italy, landlords will usually request:

• A codice fiscale (Italian tax identification number)
• Proof of income or financial stability
• Legal status (not necessarily the visa)
• A security deposit, usually equal to two or three months’ rent

In competitive cities like Milan or Rome or tourist destinations, rental demand can be high, so it is often helpful to begin searching in advance.

Buying Property as a UK Citizen

Buying property in Italy remains possible for UK citizens, although the process involves several legal and administrative steps.

The typical purchase process includes:

• Property search and negotiations
• Signing a preliminary contract known as the compromesso
• Paying a deposit, often around 10% of the purchase price
• Finalizing the purchase before a notary (notaio)

Additional costs usually include:

• Realtor fees
• Notary fees
• Property registration taxes
• Legal and administrative fees

Overall, these additional costs generally amount to 5-15% of the property value, depending on whether the property will be your primary residence.

If you want to learn more about the legal steps involved, read our detailed guide on buying property in Italy after Brexit.

Moving to Italy from the UK with Family

Moving to Italy from the UK with family members is entirely possible, but it requires additional planning. Families relocating to Italy must consider schooling, healthcare access, housing, and immigration status for each family member.

Children and dependents can usually move by applying as dependents under the main applicant’s visa. Once legal residency is granted, children have access to education and healthcare in Italy.

Schools and Education

Italy offers several education options for expat families. School attendance is mandatory from age 6 to 16. Home schooling (istruzione parentale) is also permitted but subject to authorizations and tests.

Public schools

Italian public schools are free and widely available, but classes are taught primarily in Italian. Younger children often adapt quickly, while older students may need additional language support.

International schools

Many larger cities have international schools offering education in English or other languages. Typical annual tuition ranges from €10,000 to €25,000, depending on the school and program. 

Some families choose public schools to help children integrate into Italian culture and language, while others prefer international programs for continuity with British or international curricula.

Healthcare for Children

Children of legal residents in Italy have access to the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) once the family is registered in the healthcare system.

Families usually need private health insurance during the initial visa stage before registering with the public healthcare system.

Bringing Pets to Italy

Many families also relocate with pets. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are the primary pets allowed to travel across Schengen/EU – but rules may vary by country.
Bringing a dog or cat to Italy from the UK requires compliance with EU pet travel rules.

Typical requirements include:

• Microchip identification
• Rabies vaccination
• An Animal Health Certificate issued by an authorized UK veterinarian
• Entry through an approved point of entry

Pet documentation should be prepared well in advance of travel to avoid delays at the border.

Complete Checklist for Moving to Italy from the UK

Moving to Italy from the UK involves several administrative steps before and after your relocation. Planning ahead helps ensure you meet visa requirements, avoid delays, and complete the key registrations required after arrival.

The process can generally be divided into three stages: preparation before departure, the first week in Italy, and settling in during the first month.

Pre-Departure Checklist (3–6 Months Before)

Use this checklist while preparing your move from the UK.

☐ Determine your visa type and eligibility
☐ Gather required documents for your visa application
☐ Secure accommodation in Italy (rental contract or property) where required for the visa
☐ Arrange private health insurance where required for the visa
☐ Book flights to Italy if required for the visa
☐ Apostille or legalize UK documents where required
☐ Book your Italian Consulate appointment
☐ Attend your visa interview and submit the application
☐ Get quotes from international removal companies if shipping belongings
☐ Research Italian banks for opening an account after arrival
☐ Notify HMRC if leaving the UK long term
☐ Confirm flights to Italy once the visa is approved

First Month Checklist (Critical)

Once you arrive in Italy, several registrations must happen quickly.

☐ Apply for your permesso di soggiorno within 8 working days & begin the Questura appointment process for your residence permit
☐ Open a (non-resident) Italian bank account, if needed
☐ Set up utilities such as electricity, gas, and internet – if you haven’t yet
☐ Arrange local phone and internet services, if you haven’t yet

Completing these steps ensures that your legal residency, finances, and everyday services are properly established, making the transition to life in Italy much smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Italy from the UK

Can I move to Italy from the UK after Brexit?

Yes, UK citizens can still move to Italy after Brexit, but the process now requires a visa and residence permit. British nationals can visit Italy visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, but staying longer requires applying for a long-stay visa (Type D) before traveling. After arriving in Italy with your visa, you must also apply for a permesso di soggiorno within 8 working days to legally reside in the country.

How long can UK citizens stay in Italy without a visa?

UK citizens can stay in Italy and the wider Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. This rule applies across all Schengen countries, not just Italy. If you want to stay longer for work, retirement, study, or family reunification, you must apply for an appropriate Italian long-stay visa before entering the country.

What visa do I need to work in Italy from the UK?

To work in Italy, UK citizens typically need a work visa sponsored by an Italian employer along with a work permit authorization known as a nulla osta. Other pathways may also allow professional activity, such as the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers or the Investor visa, or family visas. The correct visa depends on your employment situation and where your work is based.

How much money do I need to retire in Italy?

Retiring in Italy usually involves applying for the Elective Residency Visa, which requires proof of sufficient passive income. As a general guideline, applicants must demonstrate at least €31,500 net per year for a single applicant or around €38,000 per year for a couple (with higher thresholds imposed by certain authorities), along with private health insurance and confirmed accommodation in Italy. Additional income may be required if dependents are included in the application.

How easy is it to move to Italy from the UK?

Moving to Italy from the UK is still achievable, but it requires more preparation than before Brexit. The key steps include choosing the correct visa, preparing documentation, applying through an Italian consulate in the UK, and completing the residence permit application after arrival. While the process involves paperwork, careful planning, and the right visa pathway can make the move relatively straightforward.

What is the permesso di soggiorno and when do I need it?

The permesso di soggiorno is the Italian residence permit required for non-EU nationals who plan to stay in Italy longer than 90 days. UK citizens entering Italy with a long-stay visa must apply for the permit within 8 working days of arrival. The application is usually submitted at a designated post office, followed by an appointment with the Questura for fingerprinting and verification.

Can I get Italian citizenship after moving from the UK?

Yes, UK citizens who move to Italy may eventually qualify for Italian citizenship through naturalization. In most cases, applicants must live legally in Italy for 10 years before applying. The process also requires proof of stable income, clean criminal records, integration into Italian society, and knowledge of the Italian language at an approved level.

Is Moving to Italy from the UK Right for You?

Moving to Italy from the UK is still entirely possible after Brexit, but it now requires more planning than before. British citizens must choose the correct long-stay visa, prepare their documents carefully, and complete several registrations after arrival, including applying for a permesso di soggiorno within 8 working days.

The right pathway depends on your personal situation.
Some people relocate through the Digital Nomad Visa to work remotely, while others choose the Elective Residency Visa to retire in Italy. Workers, investors, families, and students also have different visa routes available.

While the process involves several administrative steps, many UK citizens successfully relocate to Italy each year to enjoy the country’s lifestyle, culture, and quality of life.

If you are considering moving to Italy from the UK, the first step is understanding which visa pathway applies to your situation.

Fill out the form below to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer and receive a personalized assessment of your options for moving to Italy.