Moving to Italy
Retiring in Italy — the elective residency visa
Non-EU retirees typically move to Italy on the elective residency visa (residenza elettiva), for people with stable passive income who won't work in Italy. After the visa comes a sequence of Italian steps with deadlines. Approdo maps them for you.
- ✓Elective residency visa: passive-income and accommodation requirements
- ✓Permesso di soggiorno within 8 working days, then residenza
- ✓Codice fiscale and access to the national health service
Frequently asked questions
What is the elective residency visa for Italy?+
The elective residency visa (visto per residenza elettiva) is for non-EU citizens who can support themselves with stable passive income, such as pensions, rental income or investments, and do not intend to work in Italy. It's the usual route for retirees.
How much income do I need to retire in Italy?+
The consulate requires proof of substantial, stable passive income, and the amount is assessed case by case (higher for a couple). The income must come from pensions or investments, not employment. Approdo lists the documents to prepare; the consulate sets the threshold.
Can I access Italian healthcare as a retiree?+
After registering your residenza you can enrol voluntarily in the national health service (SSN) for an annual fee, or use private insurance. EU retirees may use the S1 form from their home country. Approdo explains the options in order.
Do I pay tax in Italy as a retiree?+
Italian tax residency generally applies if you live in Italy more than 183 days a year, and some regions offer a flat-tax incentive for foreign pensioners who move to the south. This is a tax matter, so confirm with a commercialista; Approdo points you to one.
Approdo provides information, not legal or tax advice. Where a step legally requires a professional, we say so and point you to one.