Moving to Italy

Hi, ELisabetta and welcome! You will find plenty of information here regarding residency and related matters by using the search button at the top of your right hand side. Health has been widely covered and fellow member Penny has become a real expert on the topic. In your particular case, it is true that you cannot opt for the Italian nationality "jure sanguinis" because your parents were naturalized before your birth; however, as a descendant of Italians, you could apply for naturalisation after residing in Italy for three years. Money, in that case, is just a small fee, but make sure that you have all your documents duly translated and with the Hague Apostille. You must ask for your "permesso di soggiorno" at the Italian Consulate in Australia before you come. Money requirements are not excessive. At present, they are requesting about 8000€ per adult; however, this amount would not allow you to have a very pleasant life in Italy. Living costs, particularly those related to energy, are expensive in Italy. Also, you are going to need private health insurance.

Sorry, I was writing with my tablet and sometimes I have problems. In any case, my advice would be, before you come to Italy on a permanent basis, to come for say... 3 months, rent a house in the area where you want to live and see whether you really like it or not. Do not sell your assets in Australia before doing that. Also check taxes in Italy as they are pretty high and keep on climbing. There is a Social Security Agreement between Australia and Italy. Check that as well, to see whether it can assist you now or in the future. Italy is a great country; however, it is not for everyone. Make sure it is right for you before burning bridges. I wish you good luck!  

That is the income per adult person, per year, a bit under 8,000 €. You also need to have private health insurance cover.

hi, we have some australian friends who now have a house here.they spend a few months a year here have a panda car they leave here, the rest of the year they're back in the blue mountains of australia.it seems to work fine for them and saves them from the clutches of the italian burocratic system/taxes and a lot of other hassle giving them plenty of time to enjoy this country.At this moment in time i know of personally at least 4 families who are about to emigrate to australia ( so we presume Oz has something going for it) so maybe splitting your time could suit you too?...just a thought.....i guess a lot depends on age as our friends from australia are now retired and they don't have issues of having to work or make an income in which case the whole story would get more complex...  

I agree with Sebastiano and I also know Australians who only spend part of the year in Italy.