Moving to Italy – Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Planning to move to Italy? This complete guide walks you through the real process: tax number (codice fiscale), housing, banking, healthcare, moving costs, residency, local setup, taxes and what to do before and after you arrive.
Moving to Italy in 2026 – what this guide covers
Italy is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for retirees, remote workers and international households. It offers culture, climate, food, history and lifestyle, but also more bureaucracy and slower administration than many other countries.
This guide focuses on the real practical process of moving to Italy, including paperwork, housing, healthcare, finances, relocation logistics and common mistakes to avoid.
Page index
Overview – how moving to Italy actually works
Moving to Italy requires more paperwork than countries like Portugal or Spain, but it is very manageable if you follow the correct order and prepare documents early.
Your first practical step is usually getting a codice fiscale (tax number), which is required for almost everything: renting, buying property, banking, utilities and contracts.
Why many people move to Italy
🍝 Lifestyle & culture
Italy offers food culture, history, architecture and lifestyle that few countries can match.
🌤️ Climate
Warm summers, mild winters in many regions and strong outdoor lifestyle.
💶 Cost variation
Northern Italy is expensive, but southern regions can be significantly cheaper.
🏡 Property opportunities
Italy offers everything from city apartments to countryside homes and renovation projects.
Temporary stay vs permanent move
Temporary stay
Renting short-term helps you understand regions, bureaucracy and lifestyle before committing.
Permanent move
Requires full setup: tax number, residency, healthcare, banking and tax planning.
Tax residency depends on time spent in Italy and your personal situation. Always review this before moving permanently.
What does it cost to move to Italy?
Moving costs depend on volume, distance, packing, access and whether you move a full household.
- Volume of belongings
- Distance and location
- Packing and insurance
- Access (stairs, elevators, parking)
Step 1: Get a codice fiscale
- Required for contracts, banking and housing
- Needed for utilities and taxes
You can apply via an Italian consulate or locally in Italy.
Step 2: Choose where to live
North
High cost, strong economy, international.
Central
Balanced lifestyle and cost.
South
Lower cost, slower pace.
Cities
Best services but higher cost.
Step 3: Rent or buy property
- Renting is easier initially
- Buying requires legal checks and a notary
- Expect additional purchase costs
Step 4: Open a bank account
- Used for bills and contracts
- Requires codice fiscale
Step 5: Residency
- EU citizens register locally
- Non-EU citizens need visa
Step 6: Healthcare
- Public healthcare available after registration
- Private insurance often used initially
Step 7: Move your money
- Compare exchange rates
- Plan pension payments
Moving furniture and belongings
You can bring belongings or buy locally depending on cost and situation.
Moving timeline
Before moving
- Prepare documents
- Plan housing
- Arrange transport
After arrival
- Register locally
- Set up services
Common mistakes
Underestimating bureaucracy
Buying too quickly
Not planning taxes
Ignoring regional costs
Estimate your cost before moving
FAQ
Do I need a codice fiscale?
Yes, for almost everything.
Is Italy expensive?
Depends heavily on region.
Should I rent first?
Usually yes.