Italy’s healthcare system offers high-quality care through the public Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) and a strong network of private hospitals. This guide explains how expats can access healthcare in Italy, register with the SSN and decide whether to take out private health insurance. It also includes a detailed checklist to help you get started and answers to common questions about costs, coverage and documentation.
Relocating to Italy is an exciting opportunity and one of the most important parts of settling in is understanding how to access and pay for healthcare.
Italy’s medical system is consistently ranked among the best in the world, offering strong public provision through the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) and a growing network of private clinics and international hospitals catering to foreign residents.
For most expats, peace of mind comes from knowing how the two systems work together. The public SSN provides comprehensive coverage for residents, including GP visits, hospital care and emergency treatment. However, many newcomers also choose to take out private health insurance, whether to bridge the gap before becoming resident, to reduce waiting times or to ensure access to English-speaking doctors.
This guide explains how healthcare works in Italy, what you need to do to register and how to decide whether private cover is worthwhile. It also includes a checklist to help you get set up, plus answers to common questions from people planning a move.
Italy operates a universal healthcare system designed to give all residents access to essential medical services. Healthcare responsibilities are shared between the national government and regional health authorities, meaning the quality and availability of services can vary depending on where you live.
Public hospitals and clinics are generally of a high standard, particularly in larger cities such as Milan, Florence, Bologna and Rome. Rural areas may have fewer specialists or longer waiting lists, but emergency services and basic care are accessible across the country.
Under the SSN, residents are entitled to:
You’ll normally register with a family doctor (medico di base) in your local area. They’ll provide referrals to specialists and manage your ongoing care.
While Italy’s public system is comprehensive, private healthcare offers convenience and flexibility. Expats often choose private coverage for:
Private healthcare is available on a pay-per-use basis, or via private insurance that reimburses or directly pays for treatment. Prices vary depending on age, health status and level of coverage.
If you’d like to explore private healthcare options designed for expats, you can request a free, no-obligation quote from one of our trusted partners, The Expatriate Group
To make sure you’re covered from day one, here’s a practical step-by-step checklist for setting up healthcare when moving to Italy:
Until you’re officially resident, you won’t be eligible for the SSN. During this time, you should maintain private health insurance or a travel policy that includes medical coverage. Some visa categories (such as elective residence visas) require proof of private insurance before arrival.
Public healthcare is heavily subsidised, but not entirely free. GP visits, emergency treatment and hospital stays are usually free or have minimal charges. You may pay small co-payments (known as ticket) for specialist visits, laboratory tests, and prescriptions, depending on income and region.
Once registered with the SSN, you can choose your own GP from an approved list within your local ASL. You can also select your hospital for planned procedures, though emergency treatment will be directed to the nearest available facility. With private insurance, you’ll have more flexibility in choosing doctors and hospitals.
Always keep copies of your tessera sanitaria, residence permit, codice fiscale, and insurance details. For medical visits, bring your ID and health card. If you have ongoing conditions, it’s useful to carry translated medical records and prescription details.
Private insurance can either reimburse you after treatment or pay providers directly. Policies vary — some include full hospitalisation, dental, and optical cover, while others are limited to emergencies. Look for international insurers familiar with expat needs, and always review exclusions, waiting periods and pre-existing condition rules.
Experts for Expats works with trusted partners who provide tailored health insurance solutions for international residents. Request a free quote today and get personalised options based on your situation from The Expatriate Group.
