SPECIAL REPORT: Italy's Citizenship Law Shake-Up: What You Need to Know

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m getting honest about something I think too many people overlook when planning a big move: the emotional side of starting over in a new country.Yes, Italy is beautiful. Yes, the lifestyle shift can be amazing. But today, I want to talk about what doesn’t always make it onto Instagram—the reality of what happens when you move your entire life, your identity, and your sense of home to a place where everything is different.I’ve seen it time and time again: people show up full of excitement and plans, only to find themselves totally unprepared for what happens after the paperwork is done and the boxes are unpacked. The truth is, living in a new country—especially alone, or as a couple who might not be on exactly the same page—can shake up everything you thought you knew about yourself.In this episode, I talk about the quiet parts of this journey: the grief of leaving behind people who really knew you, the frustration of starting from zero, the moments where you second-guess whether you made the right decision. I share a story from a woman in our community who found herself unexpectedly overwhelmed with loneliness in her first Italian winter. She wasn’t expecting how hard it would be to not share a language—or a history—with anyone around her.But I also want to show you what’s on the other side of that discomfort. There’s something incredibly freeing about being unknown in a new place. It gives you a chance to rebuild—not from scratch, but from experience. You get to choose what you carry forward and what you let go of.Later in the episode, I’ll give you some practical suggestions for making the transition smoother—especially if you’re doing this solo. We’ll talk about what helps, what usually takes longer than expected, and what it really means to give yourself time and space to settle in.And of course, I’ll answer some listener questions too—from managing the language barrier to what timeline you should expect for feeling “at home” in Italy.If you're in that in-between place—planning your move, freshly landed, or a few years in but still adjusting—I hope this episode makes you feel seen. You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong. You’re just finding your way.—SamanthaResources: Join our Membership Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m digging into one of the most common—and important—questions I get: how much does it really cost to live in Italy?Now, I know it’s easy to fall in love with the idea that Italy is some dreamy, budget-friendly paradise. And in many ways, it can be more affordable than other countries—but I’m here to give you the honest truth about what it actually costs to live here long term.We start with the big one—housing. Whether you’re buying or renting, I walk you through what to expect, the hidden costs that can sneak up on you (like deposits, agency fees, or surprise renovation needs), and why those super cheap countryside listings might not be the deal they seem.Then we get into the real day-to-day stuff—utilities, groceries, healthcare—the boring-but-essential pieces of everyday life. I talk about where things are surprisingly affordable (like dining out!) and where they’ll bite into your budget (hello, winter heating bills in old stone houses).I also break it all down by region, because yes—where you live in Italy makes a huge difference. The north tends to be pricier, while the south can offer a slower pace and smaller bills—but it also comes with trade-offs you’ll want to consider.Throughout the episode, I share tips to help you save (like shopping at local markets and skipping the tourist trap cafés), and also where I think it’s absolutely worth splurging. Because let's be honest—some things, like staying warm and exploring Europe while you’re here, are just worth it.And at the end of the episode, I answer a few listener questions, including whether you can live on €2,000 a month, what to expect in southern Italy, and a few unexpected costs that often catch people off guard.So if you’re thinking about making the move—or you’re in the middle of planning—it’s a good one to tune into. My goal is to help you make smart, informed choices so you can build your new life in Italy without unnecessary stress (or sticker shock).ResourcesCost of living calculatorSmart Move Italy Sales Calendar Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

Ciao amici! In this special report episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m diving into something that’s been creating a lot of buzz (and a little bit of panic, if we’re being honest)—the big changes Italy is proposing to its citizenship law.If you’ve been dreaming of claiming your Italian roots and getting that coveted passport through ancestry, you’ll definitely want to tune in. For years, Italy has had one of the most generous citizenship-by-descent laws in the world—you didn’t need to live in Italy, speak Italian, or even have close ties beyond your ancestry. But now, that could all change.In this episode, I’ll walk you through what’s really going on, why the Italian government is tightening the rules, and what it means for people hoping to apply. The biggest proposed shift? Citizenship would only be automatically recognized if your parent or grandparent was born in Italy. That means people tracing their citizenship through great-grandparents could be left out.To help break it all down, I’m joined by Terry Wilson, our lead citizenship researcher here at Smart Move Italy. Terry has been knee-deep in the details and shares exactly what this proposed law says, who it affects, and how it could change the application process going forward. We also talk about the emotional side of all this—what it feels like to have your identity questioned or your eligibility suddenly vanish after years of research and hope.And then—because you know I like to bring in the legal experts—I’m also joined by Italian attorney Arturo Grasso. Arturo gives us the straight legal scoop on what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and who is still protected. If you’ve already applied or have a case in court, you’re safe. But if you haven’t filed yet, Arturo has some important advice on why now is the time to act.So if you’ve ever thought about applying for Italian citizenship—or if you’re already in the middle of the process—this episode is for you. I want you to feel informed, empowered, and ready to take the next step, whatever that looks like for you.As always, I’m here to help you navigate all the twists and turns that come with creating your new life in Italy. If you need more guidance, head over to smartmoveitaly.com for resources, updates, and support.Thanks for tuning in to this important conversation. And remember—your roots matter. Your dreams are valid. And there’s still a path forward.Ciao for now!—Samantha 🌿🇮🇹Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

If you’ve ever wondered what life in Italy is like with a pet—this episode is for you.Hey, it’s Samantha, and in today’s episode of A New Life in Italy, we’re talking all about bringing your furry (or feathery!) family members along on your Italian adventure. Whether you're already deep in the planning phase or still daydreaming with your dog curled up next to you, this one’s packed with everything you need to know.I share what it’s really like to live in Italy with a pet—from the legal stuff (yes, you actually need to walk your dog three times a day in some cities!) to the cultural differences you might not expect. We’ll go over what paperwork you need to bring your pet here, how to avoid getting stuck at customs, and how to register them once you’ve arrived. I’ll also explain what to expect when it comes to vet care, daily costs, and even finding a pet-friendly rental.And if you're thinking about adopting a new companion once you're here, I’ve got tips for that too—including what to watch out for and how seriously Italy takes animal welfare (hint: it’s a good thing!).So whether you’re moving with a beloved pet or planning to add one to your Italian life, this episode is full of helpful info, a few fun facts, and of course, my usual dose of real talk about the ups, downs, and everything in between.Let’s get into it. 🐾Resources:USDA United States Department of Agriculture (USA)CFIA Canadian Food Inspection Agency (Canada)DEFRA Department of Environment Full and Rural Affairs (UK)Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

Alright, let’s get real about buying property in Italy. In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m breaking down exactly how to plan a successful property viewing trip—because trust me, just showing up and hoping for the best? That’s a recipe for frustration.Buying a home in Italy is exciting, but it’s also full of twists and turns that can trip you up if you’re not prepared. I’m sharing what I’ve seen work (and what doesn’t) when it comes to house-hunting here, so you can avoid the classic mistakes that leave buyers feeling overwhelmed and empty-handed.First things first—before you even book your flight, you need to pre-screen your properties. I’ll walk you through how to create a short list of homes that actually fit your needs and budget, instead of wasting time on places that look great online but fall apart in person. I’ll also share the critical questions you need to ask agents before scheduling a viewing—because not every listing is what it seems, and you don’t want to spend your trip chasing dead ends.Then, once you’re in Italy, I’ll help you maximize your time on the ground. The key? Quality over quantity. I know it’s tempting to cram 10+ house viewings into a single day, but after the third or fourth, they all start to blur together. I’ll explain how to structure your schedule, take the right notes and photos, and keep track of what really matters so you’re making informed decisions—not just picking a house because it’s the only one you can still remember.And let’s talk about what happens when you actually find the one. You’ll need to move fast—but not recklessly. I’ll share why having a property lawyer and a geometra lined up before you fall in love with a house is a game-changer. Plus, I’ll break down how to navigate the negotiation process in Italy, because let’s be honest—this isn’t the US or UK, and the way deals are made here is different.By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to plan your trip like a pro, avoid the common mistakes, and set yourself up for success in the Italian property market. So, if buying a home in Italy is on your radar, grab your notebook, and let’s get into it!And hey—if you have questions about your own property search, send them my way! I might just answer them in an upcoming episode. Ciao for now!Resources:Submit your rental search criteria hereBook a Free Property CallRate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!

iao, my friends! If you've been dreaming about moving to Italy but keep hearing horror stories about high taxes—take a deep breath and stick with me. Because today, I’m breaking down some incredible tax breaks that most people don’t even realize exist for new residents in Italy.Yes, Italy has a reputation for high taxes. But did you know that if you plan properly, you could pay significantly less than you ever expected? In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I sit down with Italian tax advisor Paolo Rigo to uncover the three special tax regimes that can help you keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.We’re covering:✅ The 7% Flat Tax for Retirees – If you’re retiring in Italy, you could cap your taxes at just 7% (yes, really!)—but only if you qualify. Paolo explains who’s eligible and what you need to do before moving to claim this golden opportunity.✅ The Regime Impatriati – If you’re still working and planning to move to Italy, this one could be a game changer. It allows you to reduce your taxable income by up to 50% (and in some cases, even more!). We break down how it works, who can apply, and how long the benefits last.✅ The Regime Forfettario – Perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners, this simplified tax system lowers your tax burden and makes compliance easier—but there’s a catch. Paolo shares the pros, cons, and what you need to consider before applying.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Who qualifies for these tax incentives and how to applyHow choosing the right tax regime can save you thousands every yearWhy planning ahead before your move is critical to maximizing savingsThe biggest mistakes people make when assuming their taxes will be like their home country (hint: they won’t!)If the thought of Italian taxes has been making you second-guess your move, this episode is a must-listen. You might be surprised at just how affordable life in Italy can actually be if you know how to navigate the system.So grab a coffee (or a glass of wine 🍷), hit play, and let’s talk about how to make your Italian dream financially smart!🎧 Listen now and start planning your tax-savvy move to Italy!👉 Loved this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review! And if you have any questions, head over to my Instagram @anewlifeinitaly and drop me a DM—I’d love to hear from you!ResourcesPaolo Rigo YouTubeSmart Move ItalyRate, Review, &amp; Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at <a href="http://www.smartmoveitaly.com"...

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, One day, I’ll move to Italy? You’ve got the dream, but maybe you’re waiting for the perfect moment—retirement, more savings, or just the right timing. Well, today’s episode is going to make you rethink that approach.I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Tanya and Davide Raso, a couple who decided that waiting wasn’t an option. They packed up their life in Minnesota, moved to Italy ahead of their retirement plans, and started a brand-new business while navigating the ups and downs of expat life.We get into the real conversations—what pushed them to move before they originally planned, how they chose the right town (spoiler: it wasn’t random!), and what it’s actually like to start a business in Italy. They didn’t just settle for a dream; they turned it into something tangible with their travel business, Amici Vacations, which helps people experience Italy in a deeper, more meaningful way.But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. From adjusting to cultural differences to understanding how important connections are in Italy, they share some of the unexpected lessons they’ve learned along the way. And yes, we also talk about the bureaucratic headaches—because, let’s be honest, moving to Italy isn’t just sipping wine on a sun-drenched terrace.This episode is for anyone who’s been sitting on the fence about moving to Italy. If you’re worried about when is the right time, how to plan your move, or whether you can make it work financially—this conversation is going to give you the inspiration (and maybe the push) you need.So, grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into what it really takes to make a life in Italy happen—no more waiting for “someday.” Tanya and Davide’s story is proof that someday can be right now.🎧 Hit play and join us for this inspiring conversation!ResourcesAMICI VACATIONS Experience Italy with Friends PodcastSmart Move ItalyRate, Review, &amp; Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!&nbsp; Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

Moving to Italy is a dream for so many people—but let’s be real, getting here isn’t always smooth sailing. Italian bureaucracy is a beast of its own, and whether it’s consulates, comune offices, or the questura, every office seems to have a different answer for the same question. It’s confusing, it’s frustrating, and it’s easy to get caught up in misinformation or, honestly, just go with the answer you want to hear rather than the right one.In today’s episode, I’m diving into what it really takes to navigate this system without losing your mind. And to help me illustrate just how unpredictable this process can be, I’m sitting down with Jenna and Damien—a couple who were among the first to apply for and actually get the Digital Nomad Visa from the Los Angeles consulate. But let me tell you, their journey was anything but easy.Jenna and Damien started out with a completely different plan. They were thinking about moving to Florida, but a chance conversation at Disney World (yes, really!) changed everything. That led them down the path to Italy, where they found themselves knee-deep in visa applications, legal consultations, and a consulate appointment that felt more like an interrogation than an interview. Even with all the prep work they did—including hiring a lawyer—they still faced unexpected curveballs, delays, and last-minute document requests that nearly derailed everything.Their story is a masterclass in resilience and persistence. It’s a reminder that no matter how much you plan, things will go sideways at some point—but that doesn’t mean you should give up. We’re going to unpack what went wrong, how they pivoted, and the biggest lessons they learned along the way.And of course, I’ll be sharing my best tips to help you avoid these same pitfalls, from how to prepare for the unexpected to why flexibility might just be your best asset in this whole process.So whether you’re deep in your visa application, just starting to explore your options, or even just daydreaming about a life in Italy, this episode is packed with real stories, practical advice, and plenty of encouragement to keep you moving forward.Let’s get into it!Resources:Book a private consultation with meAbout the Digital Nomad Visa for ItalyRate, Review, &amp; Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!&nbsp; Until next time!&nbsp; Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m diving into the thrilling, sometimes nerve-wracking experience of packing up your life and moving to Italy. Hi, I’m Samantha Wilson, and today, I’m joined by Vanessa Reid, a Canadian content creator who took the leap and relocated to Torino just eight months ago.Vanessa’s story is all about bravery, determination, and embracing the unknown. Imagine moving to a city you’ve never even visited before! She shares why she chose Torino—spoiler alert: affordability and a rich history had a lot to do with it—and how being a dual citizen helped her navigate the logistical challenges of relocating, though not without its own set of hurdles.We talk about what it’s really like to choose the "right" city in Italy and dig into Vanessa’s early struggles, from language barriers to the cultural differences that make meeting new people, especially locals, a unique challenge. Torino, with its reserved yet warm residents, taught her a lot about persistence and connection.Vanessa also gets real about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with such a huge life change—the excitement of a fresh start, the loneliness of leaving your comfort zone, and the joy of slowly building a community. She shares how she used social media to connect with both locals and fellow expats, proving that even in a brand-new country, you can find your people.And of course, we couldn’t skip the food! Vanessa takes us on a mini culinary tour of Torino, sharing her favorite Piedmontese dishes and must-visit restaurants. Let’s just say, if you weren’t hungry before, you will be after hearing this part!Whether you’re dreaming of moving to Italy, curious about life as an expat, or just here for some inspiration and laughs, this episode has it all. Vanessa’s journey is a reminder that big, bold moves are possible, even if they come with a few bumps along the way.So, pour yourself a coffee or a glass of wine, and let’s chat about what it really takes to start a new life in Italy—highs, lows, and everything in between!Resources:A New Life in Italy MembershipImmobiliare.it (property site)Idealista.it (property site)Rate, Review, &amp; Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!&nbsp; Until next time!&nbsp; Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

Hey there! It’s Samantha here, and today we’re diving into a question I hear all the time: Should you go for the Elective Residency Visa or the Investor Visa when moving to Italy? Whether you’re planning to retire under the Tuscan sun or just want the freedom to hop back and forth, knowing which visa fits your dreams (and your situation) is super important.Let’s start with the Elective Residency Visa (ERV). If you’re retired or have a steady stream of passive income, this might be your ticket. But—and it’s a big but—it comes with some strict rules. You’ll need to show proof of solid passive income, commit to a long-term lease or buy a property in Italy before you even apply, and here’s the kicker: you can’t work in Italy with this visa. Plus, once you’re here, you’ll be a taxable resident, which means declaring your worldwide income. (Pro tip: get a great tax advisor on your team for this one.)Now, if you’re someone who needs a bit more flexibility, let’s talk about the Investor Visa, aka the Golden Visa. This one lets you work in Italy, and only one family member needs to meet the requirements for everyone to qualify. The catch? It requires a significant financial investment—think Italian businesses, government bonds, or similar options. But one big plus? You don’t have to sort out housing before applying.Throughout this episode, I lay it all out for you—application requirements, living arrangements, residency and tax implications, work opportunities, how long the visas last, and how to renew them. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what works best for your plans.Oh, and in the second half, I answer some great listener questions. We talk about accessing Italian healthcare as a dual citizen, how long it takes to get a permesso di soggiorno, and the steps you need to take if you’re moving back to your home country.So, grab a coffee or a glass of wine, and let’s chat about your future in Italy. I want to help you make the best decisions for your dream life here. Don’t forget to hit subscribe and share this episode with anyone you know who’s ready to make Italy their new home.Ciao for now!Resources:Elective Residency Visa InformationInvestor Visa InformationRate, Review, &amp; Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!&nbsp; Until next time!&nbsp; Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website