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What is the Elective Residency Visa?
The Elective Residency visa (visto per residenza elettiva) requires proving passive income of at least €31,000/year for an individual or €38,000 for a couple. It's ideal for retirees and those with investment income. Working is not permitted with this visa.
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What is Italy's Digital Nomad Visa?
Italy's Digital Nomad visa requires proof of highly qualified remote work, a minimum annual income threshold, and health insurance. However, the implementation details are still pending, and the visa is not yet actively being issued.
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What is a codice fiscale?
The codice fiscale is your Italian tax code, essential for everything from opening a bank account to signing a lease. You can obtain it from Italian consulates abroad or the Agenzia delle Entrate in Italy. It's free and processing is usually immediate.
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What's the permesso di soggiorno?
The permesso di soggiorno is your residence permit. After arriving in Italy with your visa, you must apply for it within 8 days through the post office. The process involves fingerprinting at the questura (police station) and typically takes 1-3 months.
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How does healthcare work in Italy?
Italy offers a national health service (SSN). As a visa holder, you'll initially need private health insurance. Once you have your residency, you can register with the SSN by paying a voluntary annual fee, giving you access to the public healthcare system.
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Where are the best places to live in Italy?
Popular expat destinations include Milan for business, Rome for history and culture, Florence for art and Tuscan lifestyle, Bologna for food and university life, and Sicily for affordable Mediterranean living.
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What documents do I need?
Essential documents include your passport, proof of income/savings, criminal record check, health insurance, and proof of accommodation. All documents need apostille certification and official Italian translation. Most documents must be issued within the last 6 months.
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Can I get Italian citizenship?
After 10 years of legal residency, you can apply for Italian citizenship. Requirements include proving continuous legal residency, adequate income, passing an Italian language test (B1 level), and having no serious criminal record.
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What's the cost of living in Italy?
Living costs vary significantly by region. Northern cities like Milan can average €2,500-3,500/month for a single person. Southern regions can be 40-50% cheaper. Housing in city centers represents the largest expense, particularly in major cities.
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How long does visa processing take?
Visa processing typically takes 1-3 months, depending on the consulate and visa type. After arrival, the permesso di soggiorno process takes an additional 1-3 months. Plan for the entire process to take 3-6 months.