Moving to Italy from the UK

Thinking About Moving to Italy?

Start here with our complete guide to relocating to Italy for people leaving the UK.

Expert-led advice, created in association with our trusted partners is designed for people making the move from the UK and provides essential guidance around taxes, visas,  property, citizenship, finances and more.

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Don't leave anything to chance

Moving to Italy requires proper planning

Italy is one of the most popular destinations for British people seeking a different pace of life, rich culture and access to wider Europe.

The transition can be risky without a plan, especially with a new language, regional bureaucracy and unfamiliar admin such as the codice fiscale, permesso di soggiorno, and health system registration.

italian street with fiat 500 parked
30,000

It is estimated that there are 30,000 UK citizens resident in Italy.

*British Embassy in Rome

 

 

5.3M

The total number of foreign citizens residing in Italy is about 5.3 million.

*Expatica
old man relaxing on a bench
84 years

The average life expectancy in Italy is 84, in the UK it's just 81 years.

woman drinking coffee in rome 800
4.7kg

The average person in Italy consumes 4.7kg of coffee per year.

Plan your move

Important challenges for British people moving to Italy

Relocating to Italy from the UK has become significantly more complex since Brexit. British nationals are now treated as non-EU citizens, which affects everything from visa applications and healthcare access to taxation and property ownership. Many long-term moves fail to account for how different Italian bureaucracy can be, especially when timing, translations and legal formalities are involved.

Our free resources will create clarity, reduce stress and help you move with confidence on your own terms.

Regional distinctions

Italy’s regions differ hugely in climate, culture and cost. Northern cities are efficient but costly, while southern and rural areas offer slower living and lower prices. Visit multiple regions before choosing where to settle.
Cost of living

Living costs vary widely. Groceries and dining can be cheaper than the UK, but imported goods, utilities and healthcare add up. Budget for visa fees, translations, insurance and rental deposits before moving.
Healthcare

The public Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) offers excellent coverage after registration. Until then, private insurance is essential. UK pensioners may qualify for S1 healthcare, covering most costs under reciprocal arrangements.
Work/life balance

Work culture values family time, holidays and long lunches. Expect slower administration, shorter business hours and closures in August, part of Italy’s deeply ingrained rhythm of life.
Tax complications

Italy taxes residents on worldwide income. UK pensions, rent and investments must be declared locally. The UK–Italy tax treaty prevents double taxation, but professional advice ensures compliance and efficiency.
Wealth management

Many UK financial products lose tax benefits once you’re Italian resident. Investment rules, reporting and currency exposure change, so review your finances with cross-border advice before transferring assets.
Essential reading to get your research underway

What you’ll discover inside our UK-to-Italy relocation section

We help British people moving to Italy,   whether for work, family, retirement or a complete lifestyle change.

Every move is unique, so alongside our detailed guides and checklists, we offer expert introductions and relocation insights to make your move more informed and far less stressful.

Italian visas for British citizens


Learn about key visa routes for UK nationals, including elective residence, work, self-employment and family reunion. Understand how the permesso di soggiorno process works once you arrive. Read about Italian Visas

Financial planning in Italy


Understand how to manage UK pensions, investments and currency transfers when relocating. Learn when to seek advice and how to avoid hidden fees and unsuitable products. Financial planning in Italy

Italy-UK Tax Planning

 

Avoid double taxation by understanding the UK–Italy tax treaty, residency rules, split year treatment and reporting obligations for income and assets held in both countries.

Guide to Italy-UK Tax

Buying property in Italy


Buying property in Italy is rarely straightforward and  requires patience and lots of due diligence. Learn about regional price differences, the legal stages of purchase, taxes and how to avoid costly mistakes when buying your Italian home.
Learn about buying Italian property
Timeline

Relocation timeline and when to speak to specialists

Moving abroad can feel a lot like preparing for a marathon. While most people reach the finish line, without preparation and expert support the risk of stress, mistakes and costly setbacks rises.

When relocating to Italy, the order of your decisions matters. Visa applications can take months, tax obligations come with strict deadlines, property choices need research and preparation, and access to healthcare depends on when and how you register. Build in time for the Italian way of doing things.

Consular and municipal appointments can book up quickly, offices keep limited hours, August and local holidays can slow processing, and some steps require repeat visits and certified translations. Getting your codice fiscale, applying for your permesso di soggiorno and registering with your comune all work more smoothly when you allow extra time.

That is why we have created a relocation timeline specifically for Italy.

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