How to Move to Italy from the USA: Best Visa Options, Residency, and Italian Citizenship

Renting property in Italy involves particular rules that set it apart from other countries, especially regarding lease terms, maintenance responsibilities, and shared building expenses. Navigating these aspects requires clear communication between tenants and landlords to ensure a smooth renting experience. Whether you’re renting a furnished apartment or dealing with common areas, understanding your role and rights is key to avoiding potential issues and enjoying your time in Italy. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the unique dynamics of renting in Italy and the responsibilities of tenants and landlords. For help with the Italian citizenship process and more information about Italian Citizenship Assistance visit ICA's website: https://ItalianCitizenshipAssistance.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team of dual-citizenship experts and attorneys you can use the contact form on the Italian Citizenship Assistance website: https://italiancitizenshipassistance.com/contact/ To see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual-citizen expat check out his YouTube channel and website: Http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:53 - Renting a residential property in Italy. 0:41 - Renting a furnished apartment. 7:22 - Most common major and minor apartment repairs. 8:47 - How are shared facilities (e.g. elevator, common areas) managed? 9:55 - Do condominium fees cover things like the maintenance of the elevator and other common areas? 11:17 - Who handles malfunctions of a lightbulb in common areas? 13:18 - Who is in charge of repainting or repairing the building's walls? 16:09 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

The Italian elective residency visa, or retirement visa, is a popular choice for non-EU citizens who want to spend their golden years enjoying Italy’s beauty, culture, and lifestyle. While it requires meeting financial criteria and securing a place to live, this visa offers exciting possibilities for those looking to make Italy their long-term home. From access to healthcare to potential tax perks, it provides unique opportunities for retirees ready to embrace la dolce vita. With the right guidance, navigating the process can be straightforward, making the dream of retiring in Italy closer than ever. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the requirements, benefits, and potential challenges of retiring in Italy on an elective residency visa and even compare it with the Italian tourist visa. For help with the Italian citizenship process and more information about Italian Citizenship Assistance visit ICA's website: https://ItalianCitizenshipAssistance.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team of dual-citizenship experts and attorneys you can use the contact form on the Italian Citizenship Assistance website: https://italiancitizenshipassistance.com/contact/ To see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual-citizen expat check out his YouTube channel and website: Http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:42 - Is the elective residency visa a pathway to Italian citizenship? 2:50 - Healthcare system with a retirement visa. 4:12 - Can someone applying for the Italian elective residency visa include family members? 6:57 - Can I get a mortgage in Italy with an elective residency? 9:15 - What are some reasons an application might be rejected? 15:23 - What if someone doesn’t meet a requirement? 16:33 - What options are available for obtaining elective residency in Italy? 18:04 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Relocating to Italy from the U.S. can involve exploring a variety of visa options such as family reunification, student visas, the digital nomad visa, and elective residency visa for retirees. Whether you plan to study at an Italian university, work remotely as a freelancer, or retire in Italy, understanding the visa requirements and eligibility criteria is key. While purchasing property in Italy can support your plans, it doesn’t automatically provide residency. For those with Italian ancestry or married to an Italian citizen, Italian citizenship by descent or through marriage offers a more direct pathway to permanent residency in Italy. Given the complexities of the Italian immigration process, seeking professional assistance can help ensure a smooth transition and make settling into your new life in Italy easier. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the best legal pathways to live in Italy, including detailed insights on visas, property ownership, and achieving Italian citizenship. For help with the Italian citizenship process and more information about Italian Citizenship Assistance visit ICA's website: https://ItalianCitizenshipAssistance.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team of dual-citizenship experts and attorneys you can use the contact form on the Italian Citizenship Assistance website: https://italiancitizenshipassistance.com/contact/ To see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual-citizen expat check out his YouTube channel and website: Http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 1:12 - Family Reunification Visa. 2:50 - Does Italy allow same-sex marriages and domestic partnerships? 4:28 - How do student visas work in Italy? 6:17 - Can students work while studying in Italy? 7:57 - How does property ownership work while getting a visa? 9:24 - What are the specific requirements for using the Digital Nomad Visa? 11:20 - Retirement Visa. 13:47 - Overview of options for individuals eligible for Italian citizenship. 16:58 - Permanent Residency. 18:11 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Dual citizens interested in buying property in Italy have unique opportunities and considerations. Establishing residency can bring benefits like access to healthcare and potential tax advantages, but it’s important to understand the residency requirements and tax responsibilities involved. With the right planning, owning property in Italy can be an attractive option for a primary residence, vacation home, or investment. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the benefits, tax breaks, and key requirements for owning property as a dual citizen in Italy. For help with the Italian citizenship process and more information about Italian Citizenship Assistance visit ICA's website: https://ItalianCitizenshipAssistance.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team of dual-citizenship experts and attorneys you can use the contact form on the Italian Citizenship Assistance website: https://italiancitizenshipassistance.com/contact/ To see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual-citizen expat check out his YouTube channel and website: Http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:56 - Residency in Italy. 7:01 - Tax breaks on your first home in Italy. 10:10 - Does the initial purchase price only cover the sale price or does it also include the annual taxes? 12:11 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

If you’re interested in retiring in Southern Europe, both Italy and Portugal offer attractive retirement visa options, each tailored to different financial situations and lifestyles. Italy’s elective residency visa is perfect for retirees with a stable and higher passive income who want to fully immerse themselves in Italian life, while Portugal’s D7 visa is more accessible, offering a lower income threshold and the flexibility to work once residency is secured. Both countries have unique requirements, processes, and timelines for obtaining long-term residency and citizenship, so understanding which visa best suits your retirement plans is crucial. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we'll learn more about the distinctions between the Italian and Portuguese retirement visa options, their financial requirements, and the pathways to permanent residency and citizenship. For help with the Italian citizenship process and more information about Italian Citizenship Assistance visit ICA's website: https://ItalianCitizenshipAssistance.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team of dual-citizenship experts and attorneys you can use the contact form on the Italian Citizenship Assistance website: https://italiancitizenshipassistance.com/contact/ To see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual-citizen expat check out his YouTube channel and website: Http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:53 - Overview of the Italian Retirement Visa. 4:47 - How long is the validity of this residence permit? 5:09 - Will an individual become an Italian citizen by getting this permit? 6:09 - Differences between Italian and Portuguese Retirement Visa. 7:32 - What is the minimum income required for the Portuguese Retirement Visa? 8:27 - Timeline for obtaining the Portuguese Retirement Visa. 10:20 - Differences in obtaining citizenship in Portugal and Italy after getting the visa. 11:40 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

If you're planning to buy a car in Italy, whether you're a dual Italian citizen or an expat living in Italy as a foreign resident, there are a few things to keep in mind. The process can vary depending on your residency status. If you’re a non-resident, registering a car in your name can be challenging, but if you’ve established residency with a visa like the elective residency visa, it’s much easier. For non-residents, renting a car is often the best option. For expats planning to enjoy long-term life in Italy, understanding the rules around car ownership is key. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the legal steps and considerations for purchasing a car in Italy as an international resident. For help with buying a home in Italy, and more information about Italian Real Estate Lawyers visit IREL's website: https://ItalianRealEstateLawyers.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team, you can use the contact form on the Italian Real Estate Lawyers website: https://italianrealestatelawyers.com/contact-us/ Also to see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual citizen check out his YouTube channel and website: http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:59 - What is the process for a foreigner buying a car in Italy? 4:55 - Purchasing a car as an Italian residing abroad? 6:20 - Rules for foreign citizens who want to bring their vehicles to Italy. 6:50 - Getting a loan or a lease agreement to purchase a car. 8:01 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Ferrara is an ideal spot for those looking to buy property in Italy or rent an apartment while enjoying a relaxed lifestyle. With its peaceful streets, green parks, and rich local culture, Ferrara offers a slower pace compared to larger cities, making it perfect for anyone considering moving to Italy. The city is highly walkable, with its charming historic center, bike-friendly streets, and easy access to amenities. Whether you're thinking about purchasing a home or simply exploring the idea of living in Italy, Ferrara provides a unique blend of Italian tradition and modern convenience. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we'll learn more about the charm of Ferrara, its property market, and why it’s an ideal location for those considering buying or renting a home in Italy, all while walking through the streets of Ferrara, Italy. For help with buying a home in Italy, and more information about Italian Real Estate Lawyers visit IREL's website: https://ItalianRealEstateLawyers.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team, you can use the contact form on the Italian Real Estate Lawyers website: https://italianrealestatelawyers.com/contact-us/ Also to see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual citizen check out his YouTube channel and website: http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 2:58 - Trains from Ferrara. 4:30 - Getting around the city. 6:29 - Advantages of living in Ferrara. 7:45 - The affordability of Ferrara. 11:31 - Buying a house in the historic center. 13:09 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Deciding whether to move to Italy as an Italian citizen or by obtaining Italian residency, such as through the elective residency visa, can impact your experience living in Italy. Many individuals who are eligible for Italian citizenship by descent consider the options in front of them, while others opt for an Italian elective residency visa in hopes of moving to Italy even sooner. Both options offer unique paths to retiring in Italy, with Italian dual citizenship providing permanent rights and fewer restrictions, while the elective residency visa Italy offers what can be a faster, albeit more temporary, solution. Whether you're looking to retire to Italy or simply spend more time in the country, understanding the differences between living in Italy as an Italian citizen versus on a visa is crucial in making the right decision for your long-term goals. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we'll learn more about the key considerations and benefits of each option for those looking to make Italy their new home. For help with buying a home in Italy, and more information about Italian Real Estate Lawyers visit IREL's website: https://ItalianRealEstateLawyers.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team, you can use the contact form on the Italian Real Estate Lawyers website: https://italianrealestatelawyers.com/contact-us/ Also to see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual citizen check out his YouTube channel and website: http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:36 - Coming to Italy as an Italian citizen vs residing in Italy with a visa 3:07 - Taxation for Italian citizens and residents in Italy 4:11 - The Italian health care system 5:10 - Processing times 7:05 - Permanent residency in Italy 7:50 - Differences in purchasing a property as a resident in Italy 9:37 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Rafael and Marco take you on a walk through Verona’s historic center, exploring the city’s unique charm, rich culture, and why it’s such a great spot for visitors and those thinking about buying property in Italy. They chat about what makes Verona so livable, comparing the busy tourist areas with the quieter neighborhoods that make it an attractive choice for anyone considering moving to Italy or living abroad. With a focus on the Italian real estate market, Rafael and Marco share practical tips for anyone interested in buying a home or apartment in Italy, showing what makes Verona a special place to settle down. In this episode of the Italian Real Estate Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, you'll get an inside look at life in Italy and the real estate opportunities waiting for you. For help with buying a home in Italy, and more information about Italian Real Estate Lawyers visit IREL's website: https://ItalianRealEstateLawyers.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team, you can use the contact form on the Italian Real Estate Lawyers website: https://italianrealestatelawyers.com/contact-us/ Also to see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual citizen check out his YouTube channel and website: http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:52 - Thoughts on Verona. 1:54 - Is Verona popular with tourists? 2:43 - Different sides within the same city. 5:55 - Purchasing a property in Verona. 7:38 - Real estate market in Veneto during summer 2024 10:16 - Arena di Verona 12:35 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

When seeking Italian citizenship by descent, whether through a 1948 court case or due to consulate delays, many have initial questions about moving forward with the process, such as court selection based on ancestral birthplaces and residency requirements. Recognizing regional variations in court receptivity, especially between southern and northern Italy, can possibly influence some aspects of the case. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual-citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we'll learn more about navigating these legal intricacies and how various factors may impact the process. For help with buying a home in Italy, and more information about Italian Real Estate Lawyers visit IREL's website: https://ItalianRealEstateLawyers.com To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team, you can use the contact form on the Italian Real Estate Lawyers website: https://italianrealestatelawyers.com/contact-us/ Also to see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual citizen check out his YouTube channel and website: http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria Http://RafaelDiFuria.com #movetoitaly #livinginitaly #italianrealestate Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:50 - Red flags when purchasing a property. 5:44 - What happens if you purchase a property that has undergone unauthorized renovations or construction work? 6:33 - Red flags on rentals. 8:46 - What happens if the IBAN number given doesn’t seem a regular bank account? 13:20 - Closing Thoughts & Outro