Moving to Italy After Brexit: A Comprehensive Guide for Brits
Moving Guideline: Essential Steps for British Citizens Relocating to Italy in 2025
Italy is still a popular choice for British nationals seeking a new life abroad, despite the Brexit shake-up. But how straightforward is it now? If you're thinking of making the move in 2023, here's what you need to be aware of.
The Appeal of Italy
According to official statistics, around half of all English-speaking inhabitants in Italy are UK nationals. They cite a better quality of life, lower cost of living, delicious food, agreeable weather, and stunning landscapes as key draws for their relocation.
Navigating visa and residency requirements post-Brexit
Moving to a new country is never an easy task, and for UK citizens, it became even more complicated with Brexit. Non-EU citizens, including Brits, are now subject to visa and residency permit requirements, just like everyone else.
Read our article, "Not just extra paperwork": What it's like moving to Italy after Brexit for an in-depth look at the experience of moving to Italy post-Brexit.
Types of Visas
The type of visa you need will depend on your personal situation. For example, if you're retiring, looking to work in Italy, or a student, the visa requirements will vary. It's essential to determine the correct visa type for your circumstance.
Applying for a visa
Visa applications must be made at your nearest consulate, located in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, before you depart for Italy. If you have a specific reason for needing proof of address in Italy while applying for your visa, consult with your landlord to ensure a get-out clause in the contract for your short-term living arrangement.
Residency Permits
Once your visa is approved, the next step is obtaining the matching Italian residency permit, which can only be acquired once you are in the country. This process involves filling out a form at a local post office and completing at least a couple of visits to your nearest Italian Questura police headquarters. The current wait time for obtaining a permit varies significantly across Italy, with some reporting wait times of over a year.
Finding a Place to Live
Securing a home is another crucial step in the moving process. Whether you're planning to buy or rent, consider starting your property search early to acclimate yourself to the Italian market's intricacies. If you're looking to buy, be aware that obtaining a mortgage as a non-EU national may pose challenges.
For more insights on renting or buying property in Italy, read our guide "Can I get a mortgage in Italy as a foreigner?".
Banking
As a resident of Italy, you'll need an Italian bank account. When choosing between traditional banks and digital platforms, traditional banks are generally recommended, with UK nationals citing higher trust levels and the availability of services tailored to foreign nationals.
Healthcare
Registering with Italy's national health service grants you access to the same healthcare services available to Italian citizens. The type of coverage and fees depend on your specific circumstances.
For details on how to register for national healthcare in Italy, read our article "SSN: Who can register for national healthcare in Italy?"
Driving
A car is likely essential if you're relocating to a smaller town or village, considering Italy's uneven public transportation system. UK nationals benefit from a driving license exchange agreement with Italy, which allows you to swap your license without retaking the test. Find out more about exchanging your British license for an Italian one in our guide "How to exchange your British license for an Italian one in Italy".
Taxation
It's important to understand the tax implications of becoming a resident in Italy, which may impact your financial planning. If you have complex tax situations, consider consulting a tax advisor familiar with both Italian and UK tax laws.
Tips for Settling In
Beyond the administrative processes, taking the chance to meet new people and learn Italian can be enriching experiences when settling into your new home. Check out our readers' recommendations for learning Italian and integrating into the community in our article "Settling in: Tips for learning Italian and integrating into your community"
For further resources, visit our guides on moving to Italy, #Moving to Italy and #Brits in Italy
[1] Visa options for UK nationals moving to Italy (Source)
[2] Brexit considerations for UK citizens moving to Italy (Source)
- Italy offers appealing factors for British nationals, such as a better quality of life, lower cost of living, delicious food, agreeable weather, and stunning landscapes.
- Post-Brexit, moves to Italy have become more complex for UK citizens, as they are now subject to visa and residency permit requirements.
- The suitable visa type for UK nationals moving to Italy depends on their specific circumstances, such as retirement, work, or study.
- Visa applications for UK nationals must be made at the nearest consulate in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh before departure for Italy.
- Upon approval of the visa, the matching Italian residency permit must be obtained in-country, involving forms filled at a local post office and visits to the nearest Italian Questura police headquarters.
- Securing a place to live, either through buying or renting, is essential and requires early planning, as obtaining a mortgage as a non-EU national might be challenging.
- As residents of Italy, obtaining an Italian bank account is necessary and traditional banks are generally recommended for foreign nationals.
- Registering with Italy's national health service grants access to the same healthcare services available to Italian citizens, but coverage and fees depend on specific circumstances.
- For Brits living in smaller towns or villages, a car is likely essential due to Italy's uneven public transportation system, and UK nationals can exchange their licenses without retaking the test.
