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Moving to Italy: A Complete Guide to Opportunities and Tax Benefits
Living in Italy is a dream shared by thousands of people around the world. From the charm of Mediterranean landscapes to an invaluable artistic and cultural heritage, Italy offers a one-of-a-kind lifestyle made of culinary excellence, fashion, and hospitality.Turning that dream into reality, however, requires clarity on some key aspects: bureaucracy, tax advantages, and, of course, finding the right home.
This guide has been designed to serve as a reliable and comprehensive reference for anyone considering relocating to Italy — helping you make each step with confidence and peace of mind.
Table of Content
Why More and More Foreigners Choose to Live in Italy
Moving to Italy: Key Bureaucratic Requirements
Tax Benefits for Those Who Transfer Their Residence to Italy
Buying a Home in Italy: What to Consider
Practical Tips for a Smooth Relocation
Why Choose Engel & Völkers When Moving and Buying a Home in Italy
Why More and More Foreigners Choose to Live in Italy
Italy continues to attract people seeking a new life abroad. What fascinates them is not only the country’s breathtaking beauty — from medieval villages to cosmopolitan cities, from Mediterranean coasts to Alpine lakes — but also a combination of lifestyle, culture, and opportunity that makes Italy a truly unique place to live and invest.
Exceptional Quality of Life and Cultural Richness
Living in Italy means embracing a lifestyle that blends tradition and modernity. Culinary excellence, art, and fashion coexist with a high standard of services and an accessible healthcare system. Whether you prefer vibrant historic cities filled with international events or peaceful settings surrounded by nature, Italy offers experiences few other countries can match.
An Attractive Tax System for New Residents
In recent years, Italy has introduced favorable tax regimes to attract new residents with high purchasing power. The flat tax for foreign income, incentives for retirees, and special benefits for entrepreneurs and skilled professionals make moving to Italy not only a cultural or personal experience but also a financially advantageous choice.
A Real Estate Market Full of Opportunities
Italy’s luxury property market offers a wide range of options suited to very different needs:from the energy of Milan, a European hub for business and design, to the timeless allure of Florence or Venice; from exclusive villas overlooking Lake Como to seaside homes on the Amalfi Coast or in Costa Smeralda.
For those looking to purchase a second home or make a long-term investment, Italy provides highly attractive opportunities — with prices still competitive compared to other prestigious European destinations.
Moving to Italy: Key Bureaucratic Requirements
The relocation process varies depending on your country of origin:
EU citizens: Entry procedures are simplified, but registration with the local municipality (Comune) is still required.
Non-EU citizens: Specific residence permits are needed, with timing and procedures depending on the purpose of the move (work, study, family reunification, or investment).
Essential documents include a tax identification code (codice fiscale), registration with the municipal registry, and a local bank account. In this context, the support of specialized professionals is crucial to avoid delays and manage Italian bureaucracy efficiently, which can be complex for newcomers.
Tax Benefits for Those Who Transfer Their Residence to Italy
Over the past few years, the Italian government has introduced a number of incentives designed to attract expats, investors, and high-net-worth individuals:
Flat Tax for New Residents: A substitute tax of €100,000 per year on foreign income, regardless of total amount. Read our in-depth article to learn how it works.
Special Regime for Foreign Pensioners: In selected regions of Southern Italy, retirees can benefit from a reduced 7% tax rate on foreign-sourced income.
Incentives for Highly Qualified Workers: Tax reductions designed for managers, researchers, and entrepreneurs who choose Italy as their new residence.
These measures have made Italy increasingly competitive among European destinations, offering tangible advantages to those who decide to relocate permanently.
Buying a Home in Italy: What to Consider
One of the most important steps when moving to Italy is purchasing a property.Foreign citizens are allowed to buy real estate in Italy, although specific rules apply depending on nationality and contract type.
The most sought-after properties range from luxury apartments in historic city centers to seaside villas and countryside estates.
Among the most popular areas for international buyers:
Milan: The Most International City
As the country’s financial and design capital, Milan is modern, efficient, and globally connected — perfect for those seeking a high-return investment or a vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Rome: Living in History
Italy’s capital is an open-air museum. Neighborhoods such as Prati, Trastevere, and Parioli combine elegance, comfort, and stability — ideal for those looking for a home rich in charm and long-term value.
Lake Como and Lake Garda: Elegance and Nature
Northern Italy’s lakes are among the most beloved destinations for foreign buyers. Panoramic villas, privacy, and stunning scenery make these areas perfect for an exclusive residence in a natural setting of rare beauty.
Tuscany: The Authentic Soul of Italy
Historic towns, rolling hills, vineyards, and a relaxed pace of life. Buying a home in Tuscany means immersing yourself in the Italian beauty and lifestyle, with properties that maintain their value over time.
Puglia and Sicily: The Charm of the South
Southern Italy has become a true rising star of the property market. Puglia and Sicily offer spectacular coastal landscapes, art cities, and and accessible property opportunities. Ideal for luxury tourism or holiday-home investments.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Relocation
1. Choose the Right Area for Your Lifestyle
Every region of Italy tells a different story.Major cities like Milan and Rome offer career opportunities, cultural events, and an international network of services.Art cities such as Florence or Venice attract those who wish to live immersed in history, while coastal and lake areas offer an exclusive retreat for those seeking tranquility and nature.
2. Rely on Specialized Consultants
Italian bureaucracy can be complex for foreigners. Having trusted legal, fiscal, and real estate advisors allows you to manage each step smoothly — from residence permits to property registration and notarial procedures.This professional guidance is key to saving time and minimizing risks.
Why Choose Engel & Völkers When Moving and Buying a Home in Italy
With its international network and in-depth knowledge of the Italian property market, Engel & Völkers is the ideal partner for anyone planning to move or invest in Italy.
The country’s real estate landscape is highly diverse, with regional differences in regulations and procedures. Choosing an international agency like Engel & Völkers means relying on a team of experts offering multilingual support, legal and notarial assistance, and personalized guidance throughout the entire process.
FAQs: Moving to Italy from Abroad
The level of complexity depends on your nationality. EU citizens face simplified procedures, while non-EU citizens must obtain a residence permit. With expert guidance, the process becomes straightforward and efficient.
Key advantages include the €100,000 flat tax on foreign income, a 7% reduced rate for retirees in southern regions, and incentives for highly qualified professionals.
Yes. EU citizens can purchase freely, while non-EU citizens are subject to reciprocity agreements. Professional assistance is recommended to ensure a smooth process.
Milan and Rome attract those seeking urban prestige and job opportunities, while Northern lakes and coastal regions are ideal for second homes. Tuscany and Southern Italy appeal to those looking for authenticity and favorable tax conditions.
For EU citizens, registration at the chosen municipality is sufficient. For non-EU citizens, timing varies depending on the residence permit, typically from a few weeks to a few months.
Absolutely. It’s an increasingly popular option, especially since some southern regions offer a 7% flat tax on foreign income, along with competitive living costs and excellent services.