Move from the UK to Italy

Learn all you need to know about getting a Visa for Italy

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Move from the UK to Italy

Moving from the U.K. to Italy starts with choosing the right visa—whether the Elective Residency Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Work Visa, or Student Visa. You’ll then need to prepare key documents such as proof of financial means, private health insurance, an ACRO police certificate, and accommodation in Italy.

Submit your application to the Italian Consulate or VFS in the U.K. Once you arrive, apply for your permesso di soggiorno within 8 days. Planning ahead for housing, healthcare, and tax residency will help ensure a smooth transition to living in Italy.

1. Choose the Right Visa

Your visa depends on your reason for moving to Italy:

Elective Residency Visa – Ideal for retirees or individuals with passive income (pensions, rental income, investments). This visa does not allow you to work in Italy.
Work Visa – For those with a job offer from an Italian employer. Availability is subject to Italy’s annual quota system (Decreto Flussi).
Student Visa – For students enrolled in an accredited Italian institution.
Digital Nomad Visa – For remote workers employed by companies outside Italy who meet the required income thresholds.
Note: Italy does not offer a Golden Visa like Portugal, but there is the Investor Visa, starting at a minimum investment of €250,000.

2. Gather Required Documents

Requirements vary by visa type, but typically include:

  • Completed visa application form

  • Valid U.K. passport (at least 6 months beyond intended stay)

  • Passport-sized photos

  • Proof of financial means

  • Private health insurance covering Italy

  • ACRO Police Certificate (with Apostille)

  • Proof of accommodation (rental contract, property deed, or host letter)

  • For work or study applicants: job contract or university acceptance letter

3. Apply at the Italian Consulate or VFS in the U.K.

Submit your application to the Italian Consulate or VFS centre that covers your region. Appointments are required. Processing times usually range from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the visa.

4. Travel to Italy

Once approved, the visa will be placed in your passport, giving you a 90-day window to enter Italy and finalise your relocation.

5. Apply for a Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno)

Within 8 days of arriving in Italy, you must apply at the local Questura (immigration police). This permit allows you to legally reside in Italy long-term.

6. Obtain Your Italian Tax Code (Codice Fiscale)

The Codice Fiscale is essential in Italy—you’ll need it to sign contracts, open a bank account, or access public services. You can get it from the local Agenzia delle Entrate or sometimes at the Italian Consulate before arrival.

7. Set Up Practical Matters

  • Open an Italian bank account

  • Secure long-term accommodation

  • Arrange private health insurance (mandatory for certain visas)

  • Register with the Italian public healthcare system (SSN) if eligible

8. Understand Tax Residency Obligations

If you live in Italy more than 183 days per year, you will become a tax resident and must pay taxes on worldwide income. Italy offers tax incentives for new residents, including:

  • The 70%–90% tax exemption regime for workers relocating to Italy

  • The €100,000 flat tax regime for high-net-worth individuals

  • Reduced tax rates for foreign pensioners in certain regions

Professional tax planning is strongly recommended.

Optional: Work With an Immigration Lawyer

Italian bureaucracy can be slow and paperwork-heavy. Many U.K. citizens choose to work with a lawyer to simplify the visa application, residence permit process, tax registration, and relocation steps. At Lexidy, our international team helps British nationals move to Italy smoothly and confidently—book a consultation to get personalised guidance for your case.

Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)

This visa allows stays in Italy and the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It’s commonly used for tourism, business travel, or short family visits. However, it does not allow long-term relocation or residency in Italy. U.K. citizens generally do not need a Schengen visa for short visits, but they must still respect the 90/180-day rule.

Long-Stay National Visa (Type D)

If you plan to stay in Italy for more than 90 days, you’ll need a Type D visa. This visa allows you to enter Italy and apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) after arrival. The main categories include:

Elective Residency Visa – For retirees or individuals who can support themselves with passive income such as pensions, rental income, or investments. Applicants must show sufficient financial means, hold private health insurance, and provide proof of accommodation. This visa does not permit employment in Italy.

Digital Nomad Visa – Designed for remote workers employed by non-Italian companies. Applicants must meet a minimum income requirement (expected to be around €2,600–€3,000 per month), show proof of remote employment, and provide health insurance and accommodation details.

Work Visa – For those with a job offer from an Italian employer. These visas fall under Italy’s quota system (decreto flussi) and require the employer to provide sponsorship and supporting documentation.

Student Visa – For individuals accepted into an accredited Italian university or study program. Applicants must show a letter of acceptance, financial proof, accommodation, and health insurance.

Investor Visa – For individuals who want residency through investment. Options include:
€250,000 into innovative startups
€500,000 into Italian companies
€1 million donation to public-interest projects
€2 million in government bonds
This visa allows flexible residency and can cover family members.

Family Reunification Visa – For family members of foreign nationals legally living in Italy. Eligible relatives include spouses, minor children, and dependent parents. Proof of relationship and financial support is required.

Spouse or Partner of an Italian Citizen Visa – For those married to or in a legally recognized partnership with an Italian citizen. Requires a marriage certificate and proof of cohabitation or an ongoing relationship.

Researcher or Academic Visa – For academics, researchers, or professors invited to work on approved projects with accredited Italian institutions.

Special Purpose Visas

Italy also issues long-stay visas for specific roles or activities, such as:

Religious Workers Visa – For individuals working with officially recognized religious institutions.
Volunteer Visa – For participants in volunteer programs with recognized non-profit or EU-funded organizations.
Sporting Activities Visa – For professional athletes and coaches contracted by Italian organizations.
Cultural Visa – For artists, performers, or cultural professionals working on approved projects in Italy.

Important Clarification

Italy does not offer a general “long-stay visitor visa” for people who simply want to live in the country without working, studying, or investing. For individuals wishing to retire or live in Italy with independent financial means, the Elective Residency Visa is typically the appropriate option.

If you’re planning to move to Italy for more than 90 days, you’ll need a Type D Long-Stay Visa, depending on your purpose (retirement, remote work, employment, study, etc.). Below is a general list of the most common documents required for long-stay visa applications at the Italian Consulate or VFS centre in the U.K.

General Requirements for an Italian Long-Stay Visa

Visa Application Form – Fully completed and signed, available from the Italian Consulate website or provided by VFS.

Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Italy and contain at least two blank visa pages.

Recent Passport-Sized Photos – Usually two, compliant with Schengen specifications.

Proof of Accommodation in Italy – Such as a rental contract, property purchase agreement, or a lettera di ospitalità if staying with friends or family.

Proof of Financial Means – You must demonstrate sufficient resources to support yourself. This may include:

  • Bank statements from the last 6 months

  • Pension or retirement income

  • Investment income

  • Employment contract (for Work Visa)

  • Proof of freelance/remote income (for Digital Nomad Visa)

Private Health Insurance – Must cover your entire stay in Italy, including emergency care and hospitalization, with a minimum of €30,000 coverage.

Criminal Background Check – An ACRO Police Certificate issued in the U.K., typically with an Apostille if required by the consulate.

Medical Certificate – Some consulates may request a doctor’s letter confirming you are in good health and free from contagious diseases (issued within 90 days before the appointment).

Motivation or Cover Letter – Explaining your reasons for moving to Italy, what you plan to do, and how you will support yourself.

Visa Fee Payment Receipt – Usually between €100 and €120, payable at VFS or the consulate.

Additional Documents for Specific Visas

Elective Residency Visa – Proof of passive income (pensions, investments, rental income) showing consistent funds above the minimum requirement (around €31,000/year for individuals), plus accommodation and private health insurance.

Digital Nomad Visa – Proof of remote employment with a non-Italian company, income meeting the expected requirement (€2,600–€3,000/month), and proof of tax residency outside Italy.

Work Visa – A valid job offer from an Italian employer, the employer’s authorization (nulla osta), and quota approval if applicable.

Student Visa – An official enrollment letter from an Italian university or educational institution, proof of tuition payment, and evidence of sufficient financial means.

Investor Visa – Proof of the qualifying investment (e.g., €250,000 in a startup, €500,000 in an Italian company), investment plan details, and documentation confirming the source of funds.

Family Reunification Visa – Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate), the sponsor’s valid Italian residence permit, and evidence that the sponsor meets minimum income and housing requirements.

Important Note

All U.K. documents (such as ACRO certificates or civil status documents) may need to be apostilled and translated into Italian. Some Italian consulates accept sworn translations done in the U.K., while others require translations by certified translators in Italy. Always verify the exact requirements with the consulate or VFS centre processing your application.

Italy generally offers a more affordable cost of living compared to major U.K. cities like London, Edinburgh, or Bristol—especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Even in cities like Rome or Milan, everyday expenses such as rent, food, and healthcare tend to be lower than in much of the U.K. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your budget if you’re relocating from the U.K. to Italy.

1. Housing Costs

Housing prices vary significantly by region, with major cities costing more than southern Italy or rural areas.

Rome or Milan (city centre):
€1,000 – €1,800 (£850 – £1,530) for a one-bedroom apartment

Mid-sized cities (Bologna, Florence, Turin):
€700 – €1,200 (£595 – £1,020)

Smaller towns/rural areas:
€400 – €800 (£340 – £680)

Buying property:
Rome/Milan average: €4,500 – €7,000 (£3,825 – £5,950) per m²
Smaller towns: €1,500 – €2,500 (£1,275 – £2,125) per m² — often even lower in the south.

2. Utilities & Internet

Utilities are moderately priced, though winter heating can increase costs.

Electricity, water, gas, trash:
€120 – €180 (£100 – £150) per month

High-speed internet & mobile plan:
€30 – €50 (£25 – £42) per month

3. Groceries & Dining Out

Italy is known for its fresh, affordable food—often cheaper than in the U.K.

Monthly groceries (1 person):
€250 – €350 (£210 – £300)

Loaf of fresh bread: €1.50 (£1.25)
Bottle of local wine: €4 – €10 (£3.40 – £8.50)
Milk (1L): €1.30 (£1.10)
Local cheese (per kilo): €9 – €14 (£7.65 – £11.90)

Dining out:
Inexpensive meal: €12 – €20 (£10 – £17)
3-course meal for two: €50 – €80 (£42 – £68)
Coffee at a café: €1.20 – €2 (£1 – £1.70)

4. Transportation Costs

Italy’s public transport system is extensive and affordable.

Monthly transit pass (Rome/Milan):
€35 – €50 (£30 – £42)

Single bus/metro ticket:
€1.50 – €2 (£1.25 – £1.70)

Petrol (per litre):
Around €1.90 (£1.60)

5. Healthcare Costs

Italy’s public healthcare system is high quality and accessible to legal residents.

Private health insurance:
€60 – €150 (£50 – £125) per month

Private doctor visit:
€50 – €100 (£42 – £85)

6. Education Costs

Public education is free, and private schools offer a wide range of options.

Public schools: Free
Private/international schools: €7,000 – €20,000 (£5,950 – £17,000) per year
University tuition (non-EU students): €1,500 – €4,000 (£1,275 – £3,400) per year

7. Entertainment & Lifestyle

Italy offers rich cultural life at accessible prices.

Gym membership: €30 – €60 (£25 – £50) per month
Movie ticket: €8 – €12 (£7 – £10)
Museum entry: €5 – €15 (£4.25 – £12.75), often discounted or free for residents and students

8. Taxes & Financial Considerations

VAT (IVA): 22%, included in retail prices
Property taxes: Generally lower than in many parts of the U.K.

Double taxation:
The U.K.–Italy tax treaty helps avoid paying tax twice on the same income. If you still have U.K. income (pensions, rental income, etc.), you should obtain tailored tax advice.

Bottom Line: Is Italy More Affordable Than the U.K.?

For many people relocating from the U.K., Italy offers a significantly lower cost of living—particularly outside central Milan and Rome. Day-to-day expenses like groceries, dining, healthcare, and transport are typically cheaper than in much of the U.K. Even in Italy’s major cities, overall spending tends to be lower than in London, while smaller towns offer an exceptional quality of life at very accessible prices.

Planning ahead for taxes, healthcare, and the visa process is essential, and professional guidance can make the transition much smoother.

If you’re a U.K. citizen planning a move to Italy, understanding your tax obligations is essential. Once you live in Italy for more than 183 days in a year, you are considered a tax resident, meaning you must report—and potentially pay tax on—your worldwide income, not just income earned in Italy.

Here’s a breakdown of the key tax considerations:

1. Income Tax in Italy (IRPEF)

As a tax resident, Italy taxes your global income, including salaries, pensions, rental income, dividends, and self-employment earnings.
Italy’s 2025 income tax rates (IRPEF) are:

  • Up to €28,000 – 23%

  • €28,001 to €50,000 – 35%

  • Over €50,000 – 43%
    Regional and municipal surcharges may also apply (typically 1%–3%).

2. Taxes on U.K. Income (Pensions, Dividends, Property, etc.)

If you become a tax resident in Italy, income from the U.K.—such as private pensions, rental income, and investment dividends—must be declared in Italy.
The U.K.–Italy double taxation treaty ensures you won’t be taxed twice on the same income. Depending on the income type:

  • Italy may have primary taxing rights (e.g., private pensions).

  • You may receive a tax credit in Italy for any U.K. tax already paid.

  • U.K. rental income remains taxable in the U.K., but must also be reported in Italy.
    Professional tax planning is recommended, especially for pensioners and property owners.

3. Special Tax Regimes for New Residents

Italy offers attractive incentives for newcomers:
Flat Tax Regime for High-Net-Worth Individuals – A flat €100,000 per year on all foreign income, plus €25,000 per dependent.
70%–90% Exemption for Workers Moving to Italy – Workers relocating to Italy may exempt 70%–90% of their employment or self-employment income from Italian tax, for up to 5–10 years depending on conditions.
These regimes offer significant savings but have strict eligibility rules.

4. Property Taxes in Italy

If you purchase real estate in Italy, expect taxes such as:
IMU (Municipal Property Tax): Usually applies to second homes, not primary residences.
Registration Tax or VAT: Varies depending on whether you buy from a private seller or a developer.
Stamp Duty: Applied during property purchase.
Italy’s property taxes are generally lower than in many parts of the U.K.

5. Capital Gains Tax

If you sell Italian property within 5 years of purchase (and it’s not your primary residence), you may owe capital gains tax.
Capital gains on financial assets (such as stocks) are typically taxed at 26%, depending on your residency status and the source of income.

6. Social Security Contributions (INPS)

If you work in Italy, you must contribute to the Italian social security system.

  • Employees: Employer and employee contributions total around 30–35%.

  • Self-employed/freelancers: Usually 25%–30% depending on the profession.
    Passive income (pensions, dividends, interest) is not subject to social security contributions.

7. VAT (IVA)

VAT is included in the price of most goods and services in Italy.

  • Standard rate: 22%

  • Reduced rates: 10% (restaurants, transport), 5% and 4% (books, bread, essential items)

8. Inheritance & Gift Taxes

Italy’s inheritance and gift taxes are relatively low:

  • Spouses and children: 4% on amounts over €1 million per heir

  • Siblings: 6% on amounts over €100,000

  • Other relatives or unrelated individuals: 6–8%, usually with little or no exemption

9. U.K. Tax Obligations After Moving

U.K. citizens do not automatically remain taxable in the U.K. once abroad, but certain obligations continue:

  • You must inform HMRC of your departure (Form P85).

  • You may need to file a U.K. tax return if you still have U.K.-source income (property, dividends, certain pensions).

  • U.K. rental income remains taxable in the U.K., but must also be declared in Italy.
    The tax treaty determines which country has primary tax rights on each income type.

Bottom Line

If you’re a U.K. citizen moving to Italy, your tax situation will depend on:

  • Whether you become a tax resident (183+ days)

  • The type of income you receive (salary, pensions, investments, rental income)

  • Whether you buy property in Italy

  • Your eligibility for Italy’s special tax regimes

  • How you apply double taxation rules
    Italy offers a high quality of life and attractive tax incentives, but tax planning is crucial. With the right guidance, you can avoid surprises and take full advantage of the benefits available to new residents.

Ready to navigate the complexities of moving from the U.K. to Italy? Get in touch with our trusted immigration lawyers for personalised guidance, expert advice, and full support with your visa application. We’ll help make your transition to Italy smooth and stress-free. Contact us today to start your journey!

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How can a lawyer help me with moving to Italy?

A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:

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  1. Eligibility assessment: A lawyer will evaluate your specific situation, whether it’s for work, study, retirement, or family reunification, to ensure you meet the criteria for the artist visa.

  2. Document preparation: They can help you compile the necessary paperwork, which typically includes:

    • Proof of financial means to support your stay.
    • Proof of accommodation in France (lease or property ownership).
    • Health insurance valid in Italy.
    • A criminal background check.
    • Specific documents depending on the purpose of the visa (employment contract, enrollment in a Italian institution, etc.).

  3. Application submission: A lawyer will guide you through the submission process, ensuring that your application is properly filed with the Italian consulate in your country of residence or online. They can help avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays or rejections.

  4. Navigating Italian bureaucracy: The visa process can involve complex and time-consuming administrative procedures. A lawyer can help you efficiently navigate these systems, making sure everything is in order for the visa decision.

  5. Follow-up on the visa process: Lawyers can track the status of your visa application and ensure any additional documentation or clarifications requested by the consulate are promptly provided.

  6. Residency permit: Once you arrive in Italy, a lawyer can help with the next step: applying for your carte de séjour (residency permit). They will assist with the necessary appointments and paperwork to transition smoothly to residency.

  7. Appeals and troubleshooting: If your artist visa is denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and address any issues in your application that may have led to the rejection.

If you’d like to explore how we can support you with the Italian visa process, feel free to book a meeting with us.

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Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Italy a reality.

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Why Italy?

Obtaining a visa in Italy offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it opens an opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to France’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, you will immerse in the warmth of French hospitality, savour its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.

Cultural immersion

Experience the rich Italian culture.

Location

Explore Europe without visa restrictions.

Stable economy

Italy has a stable and growing economy

Delicious cuisine

Taste world-renowned Italian food and wine.

Affordable living

Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.

Healthcare access

Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.

Skilled workforce

Italy has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce.

Travel Opportunities

Explore diverse regions within Italy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but you will need the correct long-stay visa if you plan to stay more than 90 days. Since Brexit, UK nationals are treated as non-EU citizens, so you must apply for a visa that matches your purpose, such as the Elective Residency Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Work Visa, or Student Visa. With the right preparation, the process is very manageable.

It depends on your situation. The most common options for UK citizens are the Elective Residency Visa for retirees or those with passive income, the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, the Work Visa for those with an Italian employer, and the Student Visa for those enrolled in Italian institutions.

Only for short stays. UK citizens can visit Italy for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. For anything longer, you must apply for a long-stay visa before travelling.

It varies by visa:

  • Elective Residency Visa – You’ll typically need at least €31,000/year in passive income for individuals (more for couples/families).

  • Digital Nomad Visa – Expected minimum monthly income of €2,600–€3,000.

  • A comfortable budget in cities like Rome or Milan: around €2,000/month for a single person.

First, apply for the correct visa at the Italian Consulate or VFS centre in the UK. After arriving in Italy, you must apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days at the local Questura. This permit allows you to live in Italy legally.

Yes, but only with a valid work visa or if you qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa. For standard employment, a sponsoring Italian employer must obtain authorisation under the national quota system (decreto flussi).

 

While many Italians speak English (especially in cities), learning Italian will make daily life smoother. To apply for citizenship, you’ll need to pass a basic Italian test (level B1).

Yes! Foreigners can buy property in Italy without restrictions. However, buying property doesn’t grant residency or a visa on its own.

Italy has both public and private healthcare:

  • As a legal resident, you can enroll in the national healthcare system (SSN).

  • Many expats also carry private insurance for faster access and more comfort, typically €60–€150/month.

If you live in Italy for more than 183 days a year, you become an Italian tax resident and must report your worldwide income. The U.K.–Italy double taxation treaty helps prevent you from being taxed twice. Some income—like U.K. rental income—may still be taxed in the U.K., but must also be declared in Italy. Italy also offers favourable tax regimes for new residents, such as the 70–90% income exemption or the €100,000 flat tax for high-net-worth individuals.

Yes. Many British retirees move to Italy using the Elective Residency Visa, which requires stable passive income and private health insurance. Italy offers a relaxed lifestyle, excellent healthcare, and tax incentives for foreign pensioners in certain regions. However, the visa does not allow you to work.

Yes. Italy is considered safe, with low rates of violent crime and a friendly, welcoming environment for expats.

Yes. U.K. licences are valid in Italy for residents, but long-term residents may eventually need to exchange their U.K. licence for an Italian one. No driving test is usually required, and the swap process is straightforward.

It depends on your lifestyle:

  • Rome – Bustling and historic, with international vibes.

  • Milan – Business hub with fashion, food, and fast-paced living.

  • Florence – Great for art lovers and digital nomads.

  • Bologna – Student-friendly, walkable, and underrated.

  • Southern towns – Affordable and relaxed, ideal for retirees.

Not required, but highly recommended. Italy’s bureaucracy can be tricky. A lawyer can streamline the process and help avoid delays or errors.

Processing times vary by consulate and visa type but usually range from 1 to 3 months. Applying early is always a good idea.

Giancarlo Ostetto
Alessia Peschiera

Our Team

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