Living in Italy: What No One Tells You Before Moving To Italy

Italy’s post offices are more than just places to send mail—they play a crucial role in daily life, offering essential services like banking, bill payments, insurance, and even acting as intermediaries for government documents such as residency permits and passports. Whether you’re moving to Italy, purchasing property, or simply managing day-to-day tasks, the post office can be an unexpected but valuable resource. From setting up a bank account to handling utilities, mobile phone plans, and even certified email for official communications, the range of services available might surprise you. 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 many roles the Italian post office plays and how it can simplify life for homeowners, expats, and newcomers to Italy.For help with buying a home in Italy, and more information about Italian Real Estate Lawyers visit IREL's website:https://ItalianRealEstateLawyers.comTo 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/RafaelDiFuriaHttp://RafaelDiFuria.com#italianpostoffice #movetoitaly #lifeinitaly Topics & Timestamps:0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts1:04 - Opening a Bank Account at the Post Office4:30 - Paying Bills at the Post Office6:43 - The Role of the Post Office in Residency and Other Processes9:32 - Purchasing Insurance at the Post Office.12:27 - Internet and Phone Services Available at the Post Office.13:36 - The PEC System15:31 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Italy is full of unique cultural and logistical nuances that often surprise newcomers, from the way language is used in daily life to how properties are structured and taxed. Certain expectations people have before arriving don’t always match reality, which can lead to unexpected challenges or pleasant surprises. Whether it’s understanding local communication, navigating practical aspects of living in an Italian home, or adjusting to the rhythm of daily life, being prepared can make all the difference in creating a smooth and enjoyable transition. 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 unexpected aspects of life in Italy, including dialects, English proficiency, real estate taxes, mixed-use buildings, and safety.For help with buying a home in Italy, and more information about Italian Real Estate Lawyers visit IREL's website:https://ItalianRealEstateLawyers.comTo 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/RafaelDiFuriaHttp://RafaelDiFuria.com#italianproperty #movetoitaly #italianrealestate Topics & Timestamps:0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts1:01 - Italian Dialects7:05 - Do Most Italians Speak English?9:41 - Taxes in Italy11:36 - Apartment Buildings: Residences and Businesses14:17 - How Safe is Italy?15:36 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Buying a home in Italy can be a smooth process with the right guidance, but the timeline can vary depending on different factors. Some steps can be streamlined, but it’s important to approach the transaction carefully to avoid complications. From making an offer to signing the final deed, experienced professionals like the team at ItalianRealEstateLawyers.com can help navigate the Italian real estate market and make the process as efficient as possible to move to Italy. If you’re planning to move, it’s also essential to understand the visa and residency requirements that may apply, ensuring everything is in place for a successful transition. 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 how quickly you can purchase property in Italy, what factors influence the timeline, and what you can do to speed up the process while making sure everything is done correctly. 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 #italianproperty #movetoitaly #italianrealestate Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:51 - How fast can you buy a home in Italy? 7:48 - How fast can you move to Italy once you purchase a property? 11:17 - What's the timeline for someone not of Italian descent to purchase a home in Italy? 11:49 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

Once you’ve purchased property in Italy, there are a few key steps to take, including managing utilities and understanding tax obligations, like potential exemptions for first-time buyers. One-euro homes may come with hidden costs, such as renovation requirements and municipal obligations. The cadastral value, which determines taxes, differs from the market value and is an important factor to consider. A geometra is often needed to verify structural and regulatory compliance, especially during due diligence. If you plan to make changes to the property, you may also need planning permission, depending on the type and location of the work. 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 hear about the responsibilities and considerations that come with owning a home in 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 #italianproperty #movetoitaly #italianrealestate Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 0:50 - What are the post-sale responsibilities for new Italian property owners? 3:07 - What unforeseen costs come with one-euro homes? 5:16 - The cadastral value of a property in Italy. 6:22 - What’s a geometra and why is it needed? 7:20 - Will you need planning permission for property changes after purchase? 8:49 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

The idea of owning a one-euro home in Italy can be enticing, but there can be more to the process than meets the eye. These programs, designed to breathe new life into small towns, often come with specific requirements and renovation commitments that can add up in time and cost. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of rural Italian living or curious about the potential investment, consulting professionals is essential to navigating this unique opportunity to own a home 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 realities, requirements, and potential challenges of Italy’s one-euro home programs. 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 #1euro #1eurohome #italianrealestate Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts 1:01 - 1€ Homes: is it worth it? 5:00 - Due diligence. 12:03 - How would Italian Real Estate Lawyers guide you through this process? 13:54 - Closing Thoughts & Outro

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