In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I, Samantha Wilson, explain why a visa is much more than just an entry ticket—it’s your first step toward long-term residency, EU rights, and even Italian citizenship.

I start by breaking down the role of a visa: it gives you official permission to enter Italy for purposes like retirement, work, study, or family reunification. But a visa is just the first step. Once you arrive, you apply for a permesso di soggiorno (permit to stay), which allows you to legally remain in Italy. After that, you can register your residenza (residency), which is necessary for accessing benefits like healthcare, banking, and other local services.

From there, I outline the main paths toward citizenship. Marriage to an Italian citizen can shorten the timeline to as little as two years of residency. For others, changes in the law now allow certain residents with Italian ancestors (either a parent or grandparent) to apply for citizenship after just two years, rather than three.

I also cover the five-year milestone, when you can apply for an EU long-term residence permit, giving you rights similar to Italian citizens, including healthcare and work across Europe.

Finally, I discuss the long-term path to full Italian citizenship after ten years of continuous residency, including the requirements for language, taxes, and documentation. While it’s a lengthy process, it’s achievable for anyone committed to living in Italy.

Throughout the episode, I show how different visa types can be used strategically to move from temporary permission to established life in Italy. I also answer listener questions about working remotely on a tourist visa, the importance of learning Italian, and how buying property can impact your visa and residency status.

Listen in to learn how your visa can open the door to stability, community, and the life you’ve been dreaming of in Italy.

Resources:

Download the Visa Guidebook

Rate, Review, & Follow

If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.

Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!

Download the Smart Move Italy App available in iOS and Android.

Until next time!

Ci vediamo!

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson explores one of the biggest questions for anyone thinking about a move to Italy: Is now a smart time financially? With global economic and political uncertainty, it’s normal to hesitate before making such a big life change. But as Samantha explains, the timing might actually be better than ever for relocating—whether for retirement, remote work, or property investment.

She highlights four key reasons why moving to Italy isn’t just a dream—it can be a smart financial move. First, the tax incentives for new residents are hard to beat. Italy offers some of the best breaks in Europe, including a flat 7% tax for retirees with foreign pensions, 5% for self-employed individuals earning up to €85,000, and even a flat €200,000 tax option for high earners—making Italy feel like a mini tax haven for newcomers.

Next, the cost of living in Italy is considerably lower than in major cities like London, New York, or Toronto. From affordable housing to groceries and dining out, euros go further here, offering a higher quality of life without compromise.

The property market is another big draw. Prices have been low for years, but there are still incredible opportunities to buy beautiful homes at a fraction of what they cost in other European countries. Acting now is key, as more international buyers are entering the market.

Finally, new visa options make it easier than ever to relocate. With pathways for retirees, remote workers, and investors, moving to Italy is far less daunting than it used to be.

Samantha also answers listener questions on practical topics like converting a UK driver’s license and investor visa requirements.

If you’ve been thinking about making the move, this episode lays out the financial advantages and shows why Italy could be one of the smartest decisions you ever make.

Related Recommendations:

• GC Partners – for currency exchange and financial transfers.
• Italian Commercialista – schedule a consult to start assessing your Italian taxes.
• Smart Move Italy – explore our website for resources and guidance on making your move.

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens after you get your Elective Residency Visa. Everyone celebrates when that visa finally arrives in their passport — and rightfully so. It’s a huge accomplishment. But here’s the thing most people don’t realize: getting the visa is just the beginning. The real adventure (and sometimes, the real frustration) starts once you land in Italy.

I talk about that mix of excitement and nerves when you first arrive, ready to start your new Italian life, and then — boom — you’re faced with your first big task: applying for your permesso di soggiorno, the permit of stay. You’ve got just eight calendar days to get that process started, and it’s not exactly straightforward. I walk you through what to do, where to go, what forms to fill out, and how to avoid the common mistakes that slow people down.

I also share some of my favorite insider tips, like why you’ll definitely want an Italian SIM card before you start any of this, and why you should keep a copy of absolutely everything. Then there’s the waiting — because once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll likely be in bureaucratic limbo for a while. I explain what that means for travel, residency registration, and access to everyday services while you wait for your appointment at the Questura.

When that appointment finally arrives, I prepare you for what to expect — the fingerprinting, the long lines, and the follow-up steps that lead to getting your actual permit card. Patience is key here, and I share a few stories (and lessons learned) from clients who’ve been through it.

After you’ve got your permesso di soggiorno, the next step is registering your residency at your local comune. This is what officially makes you a resident of Italy and allows you to do things like access healthcare and open a bank account. I go over what documents you’ll need and what might happen if the local police do a home visit to verify your address.

Finally, we dive into Italy’s public healthcare system — how to enroll, what it costs, and how to choose your family doctor. This is one of those moments where it really starts to feel real: you’re not just visiting Italy anymore, you’re living here.

Throughout the episode, I share real stories and practical advice from people who’ve walked this same path — the mistakes, the surprises, and the wins. My goal is to help you feel prepared, supported, and a little more patient with the process.

So join me for this episode of A New Life in Italy as we explore what truly happens after you get your visa — and how to make sure your first year in Italy goes as smoothly as possible.

Resources:

Smart Move Italy Residency Assistance

Rate, Review, & Follow

If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.

Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!

Before you even start a visa application for Italy, it’s important to know what to look out for. This episode explores the often-overlooked complexities of choosing the right visa and how to avoid frustration, delays, or unexpected roadblocks, with the help of Host Samantha Wilson.

Many visa challenges arise long before a visit to the consulate. They often stem from selecting the wrong visa based on incomplete information or unrealistic expectations. The episode highlights four major red flags that indicate a visa choice may not be the right fit, along with actionable steps to course-correct.

Elective Residency Visa Misconceptions: One common pitfall is assuming you can keep a remote job while on the Elective Residency Visa (ERV). Designed for those living off passive income, this visa doesn’t allow active employment. Alternatives like the Digital Nomad Visa or the Investor Visa may be better options for those who want to work while living in Italy.

Family Visa Confusion: A visa doesn’t automatically cover spouses or children. Each family member may need to apply independently, depending on the visa type. Guidance is provided on planning a family visa strategy to avoid delays, covering options like the Digital Nomad Visa and Student Visa.

Student Visa Realities: The student visa isn’t a casual way to live in Italy while learning the language. Consulates expect enrollment in full-time programs, complete with documentation and financial proof. Using a student visa to bypass these requirements can create serious complications.

Investor Visa Misunderstandings: Investing in property or funds alone doesn’t qualify for the Investor Visa, which focuses on economic investment in Italian companies or government bonds. Advice is shared on ensuring investments meet criteria and navigating the process with professional support.

To help assess visa options, Samantha introduces her "Visa Fit Test"—a series of five questions to evaluate whether a current plan aligns with personal circumstances, including income, timelines, family, housing, and tax considerations.

Listener questions are also addressed, covering rental costs, mid-term housing options, and the evolving landscape of Italian expat policies. The importance of acting promptly is emphasized, as visa requirements can change quickly.

Tune in next week for more insights and tips to help make the dream of living in Italy a reality. Ciao for now!

Free Resources & Links

• Digital Nomad Visa Quiz (best way to begin)
• Elective Residency Visa Quiz (best way to begin)
• 15-Minute Visa Eligibility Call
• Investor Visa Discovery Call
• Sentire Media

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

You don’t have to move to Italy to start living like an Italian.

In today’s episode of A New Life in Italy podcast, I’m joined by Amy Lamparelli, travel planner and founder of Away to Italy. Amy has created a step-by-step approach to planning a trip that’s just right for you—one that also embraces the art of slow travel.

This topic resonates with countless people, and struggling to put slow travel into practice is completely understandable.

For many, Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and of course you want to see all the famous sights. But whether you’re visiting once, returning many times, or even relocating here, there’s a way to balance must-see places with those priceless, everyday, authentic Italian moments.

Amy explains it beautifully and brings over 30 years of experience in Italy. And as you’ll hear in this episode, she even purchased a home in Lucca—sight unseen—after taking a virtual property tour during the pandemic. That’s how deep her love for Italy runs, and it’s the same feeling that brought Away to Italy to life.

By the end, you’ll be inspired to rethink your travel strategies and consider how to bring the principles of slow travel into your own Italian adventures. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another, this episode is packed with insights to help you connect more deeply with Italy and the Italian culture.

Join us as we explore the art of slow travel and discover how to truly feel Italy, rather than just see it. Don’t forget to check out Amy’s resources via the links below for more tips and inspo on planning your own authentic Italian journey. And stay tuned until the end for answers to listener questions!

Alla prossima,

Samantha

Resources

• Away to Italy Website
• Away to Italy Instagram
• Discover Your Italy Travel Style Quiz
• Italy Unrushed Ebook

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Ciao a tutti! In this episode of A New Life in Italy, we’re delving into a crucial topic that often causes hesitation for those dreaming of moving to Italy: finances. From money management to taxes, investments, and retirement planning, these elements can significantly influence your decision to relocate.

I am joined by Alex Ingrim, co-founder and president of Liberty Atlantic Advisors, a cross-border financial planning firm that specializes in helping Americans navigate the complexities of managing their wealth while living abroad. With his extensive experience, Alex provides invaluable insights into avoiding double taxation, managing investments, and planning for retirement in Italy.

Throughout our conversation, we explore the common fears that many potential expats face, such as the possibility of being taxed twice and concerns about whether their retirement savings will last. Alex emphasizes the importance of proactive financial planning, advising listeners to start preparing at least two years before their move. He explains the intricacies of the U.S. tax system, which operates on a citizenship-based taxation model, and how this impacts Americans living in Italy.

This episode speaks directly to Americans, but it also is good for Canadians, British, Aussies, and anyone else out there because double taxation treaties apply to all of us.

We discuss the significance of understanding where and how taxes apply to different types of income, including pensions and retirement accounts. Alex highlights the need for Americans to be aware of the differences in tax rates between the U.S. and Italy, particularly for retirees. He also addresses the common misconception that moving to Italy means you can manage your investments in the same way as in the U.S., pointing out the unique challenges posed by Italian tax laws.

In addition to financial planning, we touch on the emotional aspects of moving abroad, especially for families. Alex shares his personal experience of relocating from Alaska to Florence with his wife and children, illustrating how children often adapt more easily than adults.

As we wrap up, I encourage listeners to take action by connecting with financial professionals who understand both U.S. and Italian tax systems. Alex offers resources for those looking to get started on their financial planning journey, including free consultations.

This episode serves as a reminder that moving to Italy is not just a lifestyle choice; it’s a financial one as well. I hope you find the insights shared in this episode helpful as you consider your own Italian adventure. Don't forget to check the notes below for links to get started.

Resources

• www.libertyatlantic.com
• LinkedIn: Liberty Atlantic Advisors
• Smart Move Italy

Mentioned in this episode:

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Ciao, friend—and welcome back.

This week’s episode is a special one, because it follows our biggest event of the year—the Move to Italy Bootcamp. Thousands of you joined me, and let me tell you... reading your stories, your fears, your dreams—it reminded me of something I say all the time: moving to Italy isn’t just about documents and checklists. It’s about creating a life.

And if there’s one place where life in Italy truly lives, it’s the kitchen.

So in this episode, I want to explore how learning to cook—like a real Italian, with your hands, your heart, and no measuring cups—can actually help you feel more connected to Italy, whether you’re already here or just starting your journey from afar.

I’m joined by Teo, co-founder of Cook with Anana, a platform I absolutely adore. He and his partner Blake have been crisscrossing Italy, cooking with real Italian grandmothers—nonne—capturing their stories and their recipes before they disappear. We’re talking about dishes that haven’t changed in 80 years, made in tiny kitchens with no gadgets or gadgets or Instagram filters. Just tradition, heart, and maybe a little flour on your shirt.

Teo and I talk about where this idea came from, how food connects us to the past, and why even if you’ve never made pasta from scratch in your life, you can still learn to cook like a nonna.

And here’s the best part—if you’re a member of A New Life in Italy, you now get 3 free months inside Cook with Anana. Because starting a new life in Italy? It begins with the stories we carry and the food we share.

This episode is soulful, funny, and full of flavor. Let’s dig in.

Resources:

A New Life in Italy 2025 Join Now! (doors close on September 17, 2025)

Cook with Anana

Mentioned in this episode:

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m back with something really exciting — it’s Bootcamp season! Every year around this time, my inbox fills up with questions from people just like you who are dreaming about making the move to Italy. So I thought, why not answer some of the biggest ones right here on the podcast?

I’m diving into all the essentials you need to know if Italy is on your horizon. Things like visas (yes, including the tricky elective residency visa for retirees), what kind of income you really need to show, how healthcare works once you’re here, and the age-old question… should you rent first or go all in and buy?

We’ll also talk about what happens if you’re married to an EU citizen, the rules around driving in Italy (spoiler: you’ll need that international driver’s permit), and what it actually takes to be able to work legally once you arrive. I’ll even touch a little on the political climate, because I know that’s on some of your minds, but mostly to remind you to stay focused on your own move and your own new life.

Most importantly, this episode is your warm-up for the Move to Italy Bootcamp happening September 9th, 10th, and 11th, 2025. It’s three days of clarity, guidance, and real answers so you can stop wondering if this dream is possible and actually start planning it.

So, tune in, take notes, and then grab your spot at Bootcamp. I promise you, it’s the best first step you can take toward making Italy your home.

Grab Your Spot in the Bootcamp 2025!!

Ciao for now,

Samantha

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link