Modicasa
English expat in Italy
Forum posts
210
Contacts
4
About me
English
Lives in Modica
Speaks English, italian
Registration: 15 August 2020
Brilliant expat relocation by Deanomufc72
Good afternoon. I’m looking for any advice that anyone would like to add. im fortunate enough to be able to purchase a 2nd property and I’m drawn to scicily. The weather,the people and the food. I’ve visited a couple of times. ...
@Deanomufc72 Scicli is actually nearer the sea than Noto is. You could look at Avola - a working town very close to the sea. Read More
For Danish expats: the 7% tax scheme in southern Italy by sja121063
Dear Danish expats/pensioners in Italy,My wife and I are seriously considering moving to southern Italy. I have learned that Italy is trying to attract foreign retirees in order to counter depopulation in the southern regions. In this connection, ...
So moving to Italy in back 2016 obviously there were no incentive schemes. You had a bad experience, possibly through lack of research or lack of being able to navigate the system. That doesnt apply to everyone. Read More
Need advise around best tax solutions. by andersonpustam
Both my wife and I work remotely in UK. My wife is EU citizen. Im British. We want to move to Italy. We have a little girl age 2. Need advise around best tax solutions.
You need more than tax solutions. You need a Permesso di Soggiorno to live in Italy - you will need private health insurance and go through all the other hoops. If you are going to work remotely (ie in Italy but employedi nthe UK) then you will ... Read More
Moving from the U.S. to Italy by next1225
My name is Matthew and my wife and I live in the U.S. We are interested in buying a property in Italy that is not too far away from a beach area. We are looking for a 2Bd/ 2Ba possibly with a little land to grow stuff on . We would like an area that ...
Your budget is far too low to live near a beach and have land. Certainly in Sicily, Puglia etc. Without a residential visa you can stay for a maximum of 90 days in one visit. Ignore all the 'experts' on instagram and the like - My advice is ... Read More
Scicily relocated by deanomufc7264
Hello. I'm in a fortunate position to be able to purchase a property in scicily in the next couple of years. ive visIted the east coast and i like what ive seen. im going to visit the north this year and have a look about. Syracuse and Noto got ...
I always say drive around until you find a place that feels like home, then zone in on what you want to buy. Noto is nice, only 6km from the sea, but not great for shopping - you'd have to go to avola or Modica. Siracusa, on hte sea, no beaches - ... Read More
Retiring in Lucca, Italy by gaetanaanastasia
Hi. I am looking into retiring from the United States to Lucca, Italy. I would be living on my Social Security and small pension. I would love some advice as to how to begin this process. I was thinking about flying over and then applying to stay ...
You need to apply through your local consulate in your home country. You will need proof of income which as a single person is about 33000 euros per year for an elective residency visa. You will also need an address - either a home you have bought ... Read More
Are there any cons to moving to Tuscany ? by Rlewingtonpytka
Hi we are Ryszard & JenWe are planning to move to Italy later this year or early 2027. We are not sure where to move to exactly but Tuscany seems a good place to start. Are there any cons to moving to Tuscany ?Where is a nice place to live.We ...
Tuscany is big as a region. Do you want to be within 30 minutes of the sea? Do you want to be up inthe hills/mountains? Do you like rain and snow? Do you want to be near an art city? Do you want avoid as many tourists as possible? Make a ... Read More
Requirement for residency permit by ltoby955
I hold an EU longterm residency in Portugal but I am a non EU passport holder. I was wondering what the enry requirements are? I saw there are certain areas where you can relocate to with a flat rate tax on pensions namely Pulia. Many thanks for any ...
Patronati do not speak English as a rule, they are run by and for Italians. Certainly in the south there is very little chance that you will find an English speaking member of staff. Read More
Requirement for residency permit by ltoby955
I hold an EU longterm residency in Portugal but I am a non EU passport holder. I was wondering what the enry requirements are? I saw there are certain areas where you can relocate to with a flat rate tax on pensions namely Pulia. Many thanks for any ...
You would need to show income above the minimum required and an address - so either a house you own or a rental contract. The health service as a 'European' you might not need, but its highly possible they will insist you have health insurance for ... Read More
Real estate agent recommendations by mondocanemsr
can someone recommend a real estate agent to help me buy or rent in North Sicily especially between Palermo and Messina. I have located some properties in Provincia di Messina but need someone to represent my interest. Thank you
Long term rental usually do not stay on the market long enough to make it onto idealista or suchlike. AS everyone thinks they can make a fortune doing holiday lets, the amount of 4x4's or long term contratti liberi is diminishing so the market is ... Read More
Looking for FIAIP approved real estate agent by jimds
Hi, I'm a Californian and I'm looking to permanently relocate to the Trieste or Lake Garda area of Italy in May of 2026. I'll be taking a month long trip in March to look at villas with an agent and hopefully sign a lease. I am not and will not be ...
Consultants are called that precisely because they are not licenced agents and work illegally if they ask for commission on a sale. Even if they are affiliated to the agent, it is the agent you need to deal with and see the ... Read More
Looking for FIAIP approved real estate agent by jimds
Hi, I'm a Californian and I'm looking to permanently relocate to the Trieste or Lake Garda area of Italy in May of 2026. I'll be taking a month long trip in March to look at villas with an agent and hopefully sign a lease. I am not and will not be ...
You can find the FIAIP agents in your area here: https://www.fiaip.it/trova-lagente-fiap-di-zona/ Read More
Real estate agent recommendations by mondocanemsr
can someone recommend a real estate agent to help me buy or rent in North Sicily especially between Palermo and Messina. I have located some properties in Provincia di Messina but need someone to represent my interest. Thank you
https://www.fiaip.it/trova-lagente-fiap-di-zona/#menu1 - You can go here and find a FIAIP registered agent in your area of interest. If you the properties you have found are with other agents, then you have to use that agent. If they are private ... Read More
Looking to buy house in Sicily by mondocanemsr
Newbie here, considering buying house to relocate. Any information on realtors and/ attorneys. Not sure where to start.Thanks
A visa is not automatic if you buy a house. You will still need to qualify for a visa. Sicily has alot of coast. Visit and drive round the island and see what seems 'like you' and where you feel at home. Read More
Looking to buy house in Sicily by mondocanemsr
Newbie here, considering buying house to relocate. Any information on realtors and/ attorneys. Not sure where to start.Thanks
What is your nationality - are you allowed to buy property in ITaly What visa would you use to stay in ItalyWhere do you think you would like to move? And for what reasons? 4 . Visit, drive around and decide on an area, and only then zone in to ... Read More
Taxes for expats in Italy by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When settling in and living in Italy, you will also need to navigate the local tax system. In order to help newcomers and expats ease their tax-related experience, we would like to invite you to share your experience. What are ...
@lackstone0016 ERV is an elective residency visa. Read More
Self-employed with young family: transitory or residential rent? by semiphysics
Hello everyone, We have a two year old and are considering moving to Italy for at least 12 to 18 months. We live in UK, my wife is Italian and I am British and Irish (EU citizens). I am self-employed and the only one working at the moment because of ...
Your wife is Italian so your child can access school easily.For healthcare they may say you will need health insurance for the first 5 years of being resident, but you dont. However, depending how long your wife has been out of Italy (and paying ... Read More
Italian Mortgages by Staceyg07
Ciao!What has been anyone's experience with obtaining a mortgage in Italy as a US citizen? Either with or without residency?I've heard stories some okay and some incredibly difficult. Curious to hear from the forum. Grazie!
As a non resident it would be virtually impossible to get a mortgage as a foreigner. Even for foreign residents it's not easy - you will have to supply a mountain of paperwork - ten years of pay slips etc, all translated into Italian. Plus Italian ... Read More
Geomatra, pescara, Abruzzo by SakoBear
Hi there everyone! I’ve just purchased some land in the abruzzo region and the people who sold me the land recommended a geometra who wants 15,000 euros for the plans and to get the planning permission past the abruzzo council and the local ...
It depends on what you are planning to build - but the building permit costs a percentage of the overall cost of the build, so it could well be about right. Ask the geometra for a break down of costs - a fair amount of them will be ... Read More
The visit to the Vatican! by Rogers277
Hi everyone!Since I'm in Italy, I'd like to visit the Vatican for the first time. I've always been fascinated by it, especially its history and architecture, so I'm really looking forward to going!For my Vatican visit. I'd love to get your tips or ...
The Sistine chapel is now closed until after they elect a new pope Read More
Seeking "Sanctuary" by GuestPoster101047
Hi all,I think I don't have to post my entire profile here - which can be read by everyone, I believe - so I'll just start with the current situation I find myself in, and which I'd like to change, as soon as ..Yes, I have cancer, diagnosed 2023. At ...
@Fred She said she was living in Germany... Read More
Seeking "Sanctuary" by GuestPoster101047
Hi all,I think I don't have to post my entire profile here - which can be read by everyone, I believe - so I'll just start with the current situation I find myself in, and which I'd like to change, as soon as ..Yes, I have cancer, diagnosed 2023. At ...
Id think some retreat in NOrth of England, Cumbria, Northumberland Yorkshire may fit the bill. Read More
Obtaining a Tax ID for the first time by Staceyg07
Hello, Does anyone have advice on how to obtain a tax ID in italy as a current US citizen? Is it possible to do during a visit? Are appointments required? We are looking to do this in Asti. We will be there in 2 weeks.Grazie!
The rules have changed. If you dont have a permesso di soggiorno or visa, you will need an accepted proposta di acquisto for a property purchase otherwise the Agenzia delle Entrate say that can't issue you a Codice Fiscale. You can ... Read More
Exiting a property Contract after contract date by marazzo
Hi there, I've got myself in a situation, where I was not told of all property costs including all fees.I asked various times for a breakdown on total costs, with all fees ie taxes/stamp duty, notary and real estate.Every time I asked the real ...
Its important to know if this contract is a proposta di acquisto or a preliminare di vendita. Unless it is specifically agreed otherwise, the buyer is only responsible for his fees. however, whether anything is due is up for debate at this point. ... Read More
Exiting a property Contract after contract date by marazzo
Hi there, I've got myself in a situation, where I was not told of all property costs including all fees.I asked various times for a breakdown on total costs, with all fees ie taxes/stamp duty, notary and real estate.Every time I asked the real ...
A general guide for anyone checking to see if their agent is legal is this site: https://agentiimmobiliariabilitati.it/ and you can fill in the fields and if it is a licenced agent or agency it should show up. Not definitive but a good start. Read More
Exiting a property Contract after contract date by marazzo
Hi there, I've got myself in a situation, where I was not told of all property costs including all fees.I asked various times for a breakdown on total costs, with all fees ie taxes/stamp duty, notary and real estate.Every time I asked the real ...
OK the agent is taking the p?ss. You have signed a contract which doesnt sound as though its got much legal base, the agent wants his money even though he hasnt done his job and he wants you to pay the sellers side too. ... Read More
Exiting a property Contract after contract date by marazzo
Hi there, I've got myself in a situation, where I was not told of all property costs including all fees.I asked various times for a breakdown on total costs, with all fees ie taxes/stamp duty, notary and real estate.Every time I asked the real ...
This is a mess. So you have signed a proposta or compromesso wich says you have a paid a caparra , even though you havent? SO as far as the law is concerned you have paid. But... here the agent is at fault. Did ... Read More
Trapani or Marsala by Andrea Castellanos Ibarra
Hello everyone I'm currently living in the north of Italy. After thinking it through after two years of living there, I decided to move to Sicily, but after looking at houses, I'm stuck between Trapani and Marsala. So far, I've been in Trapani for a ...
February (like August) probably isnt the best time to get a feel for a place. Personally I would choose Marsala over Trapani every time, but other wont feel the same. Without Ryanair you get the impression that Trapani would be a ghost town, ... Read More
Worldwide Property Holdings by ppanico38
We are in the initial researching stage and looking at options for a holiday home but with the intention of retiring. Has anyone come across this company they are advertising flat/apartments on rightmove at the moment.Also how does the cost of ...
They are registered at Companies House in the UK, but not in Italy. Therefore they do not have the licence to buy and sell property in Italy. Read More
Travelling to Italy by miziovoi
Hi, I am new to this forum so please let me introduce myself first.I am dual US and Italian citizen living in the US; my wife and I own a property in Italy.My wife is a US citizen; we are trying to get her Italian citizenship (via ius matrimonium), ...
As you are an Italian citizen with a home in Italy your wife could, in theory, ask for a permesso di soggiorno for motivi familiari which will allow longer stays - as long as she is with you. You are not resident though, but are presumably ... Read More
Education in Italy - Primary and High School by Mate Takacs
A bit of background. I am currently living in Hungary, where we really like to live and work, but my kids happened to be playing baseball, which is being played on a very low level here and I would like them to develop more. Me and my wife have four ...
In Italy they play football and tennis - and thats about it. I personally have never seen anything to do with baseball. Perhaps your best route would be to see where there are baseball clubs and start narrowing down your research to those areas. ... Read More
Real estate agent by nrlamler
Hello all I am new to this forum. I have read previous posts with interest because we are currently looking for a property in central Italy. I am hoping to find some guidance and benefit from the experience of people who have navigated through the ...
I cant find a single legally operating British agent in that area. You should check whether the agent is legal before taking the plunge. Read More
Mortgages as foreigners by demi88proud
Hiya,We are wanting to buy a house in Italy to rent out as a summer holiday home / villa. we would need to get a mortgage but are unsure if house much deposit we would need as foreigners.Please could anyone offer advice on this. Thanks
It is very difficult to get a mortgage as a non resident with no complete work history. You will have to provide your last 10 years pay slips, all translated into Italian as well as lots of other documents - It is much easier extending your ... Read More
Property fees and taxes when buying. by marazzo
Hi I need advice on buying a €12000 2 bed flat in Matera.It's 65sqm and I think it's A/3 Cadastral.It will be my first property and used as a my own holiday home.Now the agent what's to charge €2500 + 22% vat then with registration fees/ ...
The cheaper the property the larger the percentage you pay on purchase. The agent is charging a minimum 2500, (could be worse.-.. in Molise they charge 3000) plus IVA. The notary and the tax man have minimums too - the minimum tax you can pay is ... Read More
Moving from UK to Puglia to open B and B by pbaggy
My wife and I are planning to move to Puglia within the next 12 months. We have visited on numerous occasions and decided on the area near Cisternino.We have worked in hospitality for years and are looking find a property to host guests and a ...
To get a self employed visa you will need to provide 2 or 3 years tax returns in that job. You will need a property to rent out and all the other stuff. Only then will they tell you if you can have a visa, which are limited no.s andentirely at the ... Read More
Buying in Sicily by Pumarosa200
I’m thinking of buying a place in Sicily can anyone tell me if there are estate agents that do rent to buy properties like they do in Bulgaria any information would be very useful thanks in advance
There is a rent to buy option that is legal in Italy. However, you will still need a deposit, and the term is a maximum 10 years. Half your rent is rent, the other half pays capital. Not many sellers are interested in the option. Read More
Finding a real estate agent by DDIPRETE
my family and I are hoping to purchase property in the southern part of Italy in the near future. We are at a total loss as to how to proceed. Having no contacts. We are looking to rent first. Any and all info would be greatly appreciated. ...
And did this agent appear in the act of sale as the agent or did you pay him/La Dolce Vita in the UK? The law requires your agent to be inscribed in the Register with a numero REA. He must be named in the act of sale with the payment. If you ... Read More
Residenza check by sftitich
Hello everyone, How many days it takes for the police officer to come home and check after applying for residenza?
It entirely depends on your comune... Read More
Finding a real estate agent by DDIPRETE
my family and I are hoping to purchase property in the southern part of Italy in the near future. We are at a total loss as to how to proceed. Having no contacts. We are looking to rent first. Any and all info would be greatly appreciated. ...
Hi Dominic, Ive sent you a pm. Read More
Legally owning a used car in Sicily as a non-EU citizen by vittorio e
Hi I wonder if anyone can tell me if there is any way of legally owning a used car in Sicily as a non-EU citizen (UK) only armed with a Codice Fiscale and an apartment in Sicily, but without a residency permit? As the property is in a location ...
Im glad it went well for you - Presumably you imported your vehicle prior to December 2021? Read More
Legally owning a used car in Sicily as a non-EU citizen by vittorio e
Hi I wonder if anyone can tell me if there is any way of legally owning a used car in Sicily as a non-EU citizen (UK) only armed with a Codice Fiscale and an apartment in Sicily, but without a residency permit? As the property is in a location ...
Looks like a scam to me - Give them 69USD and then they - with no address or way of tracing them - will do what exactly? Read More
Legally owning a used car in Sicily as a non-EU citizen by vittorio e
Hi I wonder if anyone can tell me if there is any way of legally owning a used car in Sicily as a non-EU citizen (UK) only armed with a Codice Fiscale and an apartment in Sicily, but without a residency permit? As the property is in a location ...
@vittorio eThe very short answer is 'no' - you cannot do it legally. But at this point you enter in to the italians relationship with the law, and whether its worth the risk. Read More
Property rental lawyers in Bergamo by markp84
My first rental in Italy hasn't gone terribly well. The landlady cited no fault with the apartment, which was returned in the same condition as let, however she has not repaid the security deposit nor the credit for the spese condominiale and has ...
Id go to the agency. It is also their problem. They rented you the place and have a responsibility to both parties. If they huff and puff, tell them you're going to go to the Guardia di Finanza - youd be amazed at the effect that can gave. Read More
Looking to retire to Ragusa, by morriskrysy
Hello, I'm practising my Italian but do you think I'll be able to get by with little Italian, English and a Google translator. I don't want to appear rude?
learn Italian and some Sicilian. Otherwise youll always be on the outside looking in. The clients Ive had who have steadfastly not learned Italian are the ones that chucked it in and went home after a couple of years because they didnt fit in, ... Read More
Property rental lawyers in Bergamo by markp84
My first rental in Italy hasn't gone terribly well. The landlady cited no fault with the apartment, which was returned in the same condition as let, however she has not repaid the security deposit nor the credit for the spese condominiale and has ...
OK - Unless you had a rental contract registered at the Tax Office, and you paid for it, you dont exist. It was illegal to rent to you and it was illegal for you to rent. You cannot prove you ever lived there or paid rent. Presumably your ... Read More
Property rental lawyers in Bergamo by markp84
My first rental in Italy hasn't gone terribly well. The landlady cited no fault with the apartment, which was returned in the same condition as let, however she has not repaid the security deposit nor the credit for the spese condominiale and has ...
Presumably you had a registered contract at the tax office? Read More
Tax on property in Italy by militho
Hello everyone I am Milos. I am looking to buy a house in Lecce suburb. I currently have several preselected properties of various sizes for viewing. At some point I plan to move permanently there. How is the Italian tax law regulated regarding the ...
The impatriati system has no bearing whatsoever on IMU and TARI. You pay IMU and reduced TARI if you are non resident, or full TARI and no IMU if you are resident. THats it. Read More
Work Remote but live in Italy - Medical Supplies issues by vbcrockford
Hi, So I have a bit of a dilemma.. So I want to go to live in Sicily with my boyfriend who is from there (has an indefinite contract there already and works as a Nurse in a hospital). Now, I am from Malta and I had the Stoma bag in February 24 ...
You would need Italian assicurazione sanitaria for a family doctor and prescriptions, which is now 2000 euros per year. Or a work contract. There is no consulate in Ragusa, if you are already there, go to the nearest ASL and ask them what your ... Read More
Tax on property in Italy by militho
Hello everyone I am Milos. I am looking to buy a house in Lecce suburb. I currently have several preselected properties of various sizes for viewing. At some point I plan to move permanently there. How is the Italian tax law regulated regarding the ...
Yes, the more you do to a house, the more it is worth and the more the rateable value increases. Read More
When to pay the Estate Agent their commission? by Roben P
Just sold our Trullo in Puglia and our agent says that the commission is due shortly after exchange. In my contract it says to pay before the sale deed is signed at the notary.So what is the norm?TIA
Your commission is due technically 'when the affair is concluded'. That legally means at compromesso, as the deal is done at that point. However, if there are clauses inthe compromesso that could nix the sale then you can argue that you would pay ... Read More
Tax on property in Italy by militho
Hello everyone I am Milos. I am looking to buy a house in Lecce suburb. I currently have several preselected properties of various sizes for viewing. At some point I plan to move permanently there. How is the Italian tax law regulated regarding the ...
Alot of houses had a rateablee value fixed in the 1950s so you will be paying peanuts. If the house has had work done then it wil have been revalued... but between 500and 800 euros would be normal, or around 1000 if its got 5 bathrooms and a pool. ... Read More
Tax on property in Italy by militho
Hello everyone I am Milos. I am looking to buy a house in Lecce suburb. I currently have several preselected properties of various sizes for viewing. At some point I plan to move permanently there. How is the Italian tax law regulated regarding the ...
You pay your property tax on the rateable value, which is normally more for a larger property. Your rubbish tax, TARI, is calculated on the square meters of the property, so the bigger the house the more you pay. Amounts are set by the comune. Read More
Rent for permanent stay by Bebeetoto
I am an Italian born Canadian. I would like to enquire about renting an affordable appartment for permanent stay for my retirement. I am single and don’t need much in the way of space or amenities. Living space, bath, kitchen, bedroom and some ...
Where? Prices go from 300 to 3000 plus a month. Read More
Cancelling purchase, still pay full price to agency? by ThaiTy
Hello, for various reasons I've decided not to complete a property purchase in Salento. It is stated in the preliminary contract that if I defeault, I lose the deposit. I can live with that. But the lawyer tells me I will still need to pay 4% of the ...
Yes. When you signed the compromesso, the sale was set in stone and at that point the agent had the right to be paid. He obviously let you pay at atto, but this doessnt change the fact that legally has the right to his full fee. Read More
Accommodation in Italy: scams you should look out for by Bhavna
Hi, Committing to renting or buying accommodation when youre new to or have not moved to Italy just yet is always a stressful endeavour. Would you like to help us in putting together a handbook of what to look out for when house hunting in ...
sorry old thread - posted in error and cant delete Read More
FULLY FURNISHED APARTMENT ALL INCLUSIVE - LECCE by danaekondyli
Hello expats, we are a couple with a small dog from Greece coming to Lecce because of our job. We are looking for an apartment or house with 2 or more bedrooms, with terrace or balcony fully furnished and equipped with the utilities included in the ...
You will not find a property with all inclusive for that length of time. Your choice is a holiday let (often all inclusive) with a 30 day contract which you can renew. Or a transitorio contract, of up to 18 months, with bills put in your name and ... Read More
Exchanging a Britsh Driving Licence for an Italian one by GuestPoster1258
Hi everyone,I'm a Brit who has been living in Rome for nearly 4 years. I have been thinking about Exchanging a British driving Licence for an Italian one, but I want to ask some questions about it. I know that I have to visit the Motorizzazione, but ...
Id advise you to take proof of residence - if that means getting a carta d'identita, then do it. You should have one if you've been there for 4 years, Read More
Real estate agent by nrlamler
Hello all I am new to this forum. I have read previous posts with interest because we are currently looking for a property in central Italy. I am hoping to find some guidance and benefit from the experience of people who have navigated through the ...
An accredited agent is a legal agent - and they will act independently, legally and in the interests of the buyer and seller - and are paid by both. There are lots of buyers agents, consulente, property finders, who act on your behalf ... Read More
Can I buy a car in Italy using a permesso di soggiorno for students? by georgeappleton
Hi guys, I'm buying a car but have to do the title change of ownership. I can't for the life of me find definitive answers. I am here to study and so have a permesso di soggiorno, but I don't have an Italian ID. Is it possible? Thank you!
Driving a car belonging to someone else is no longer simple. You must have written permission from the owner for a period of up to 1 month always with you in the car, in case you get stopped. After 1 month you must notify the motorizzazione of ... Read More
Small towns for living in Italy by Mark&Lora
What towns with affordable real estate can you recommend in Italy? It could be central Italy or the South. Perhaps even a small town within an hour's drive from a major metropolis. The main preferences are few tourists, absence of large factories, ...
I lived in Naples for 5 years and went down there a lot. Italy is so diverse that you really cant say 'Go to Puglia you'll love it'. In my case I did the whole of Italy and always ended up going further and further south till I found home. ... Read More
Carta di soggiorno right to live anywhere in italy by marypiccione27
Hello I am in the process of obtaining a carta di soggiorno through my son who is an Italian citizen and has an Italian passport. Can myself and my son who is under 18 live and have residency anywhere in Italy or can it only be the comune/region he ...
Do you mean a permesso di soggiorno? A carta di soggiorno is for people who have been resident for more than 5 years and Brexit residents. A permesso sounds like it would be more applicable in your case, being the mother of an Italian citizen. ... Read More
Small towns for living in Italy by Mark&Lora
What towns with affordable real estate can you recommend in Italy? It could be central Italy or the South. Perhaps even a small town within an hour's drive from a major metropolis. The main preferences are few tourists, absence of large factories, ...
Close to the sea with no tourists doesnt exist for at least 2 months a year. BY major metropolis you mean Rome, Naples, Palermo and possibly Catania.?If you count Salerno as a metropolis, then down in the Cilento is lovely, Paestum, and that ... Read More
Citizenship in Italy through Smart Move Italy by 524dmm
I am a US citizen with Italian heritage who will be applying for Italian citizenship in Italy. I am strongly considering Smart Move Italy as a service to assist me with all phases of this process. Would those on this forum who have used them ...
@524dmm Another advert for SmartMove. Do you work for them or do they just pay you to go on all the forums and write this? Read More
Newbie here...researching plausibility of retiring in Italy. by awesome80mc
Hi folks. Happy to have found this site. We are a couple nearing retirement and we are contemplating a move to reside / retire in Italy to escape Canadian weather and taxes. We currently reside in the Montreal QC area. We are in the very beginning ...
On lots of forums, suddenly lots of questiosn about Smart Move Italy and how good they are. It almost seems like publicity. Read More
Is this a scam? by Bcfb
HiCan I check if this website is a scam.. Am about to purchase something. Thanks https://www.trovaincasso.it
@Bcfb The owner FLC Srl is based in Bari and is a registered company which deals in electrodomestic goods. I cant find the reviews on Trust pilot or FeedatyIf you can pay with paypal or Amex and many other cards, ,then you are covered even it did ... Read More
Has anyone purchased property without a lawyer? by chrisdrobson
Hello,I know that the best scenario would be to use an English speaking lawyer when purchasing a property, to help buyers understand contracts and to represent the buyer's interest etc. but I am curious if anyone has not done so? If you didn't have ...
If you have an agent he has a legal obligation to run certain checks make sure what you are buying is what you saw. Furthermore he has to make sure that what you saw can be sold. What would normally happen is that the agent would ... Read More
Has anyone purchased property without a lawyer? by chrisdrobson
Hello,I know that the best scenario would be to use an English speaking lawyer when purchasing a property, to help buyers understand contracts and to represent the buyer's interest etc. but I am curious if anyone has not done so? If you didn't have ...
Assuming there is no agent involved and you have to use a notary, Id opt for a geometra over a lawyer every time. You will also need a translator if you arent fluent in Italian. Obviously it does depend on where and what you are buying Read More
Process of acquiring a Medical doctor in Italy by alotforsaletogo
What is the process of acquiring a medical doctor( GP) once you are in Italy and have obtained citizenship and residency? Thank you,Vanessa
If you have acquired citizenship recently and have never really lived in Italy, along with your residency you will need to have health insurance. Once you have that, and all the other paperwork, you can get signed onto a doctor immediately, and ... Read More
Succession inheritance from grandfather and step-grandmother - Italy by GuestPoster05021
My grandfather was a widow at a young age, 30, He has two children from his first marriage. He later re-married after a few years to a widowed homemaker who had one child from her previous marriage. After a few years they had a child of their own. ...
So when the father died, his three children (two from his first marriage and 1 from his second) received 66.6% of his patrimony (divided equally) with the remaining third going to his second wife. When she died, the estate is split between her ... Read More
Succession inheritance from grandfather and step-grandmother - Italy by GuestPoster05021
My grandfather was a widow at a young age, 30, He has two children from his first marriage. He later re-married after a few years to a widowed homemaker who had one child from her previous marriage. After a few years they had a child of their own. ...
Im afraid this is a very Italian problem and many families go through it. However, the Italian law succession is very clear, so even if your grandad made a will, there is a part of his inheritance called the legittima which cannot be ... Read More
A little help with my codice fiscali by alaineivy
I am also new to the area and I would appreciate Some help to get my codice fiscali. Then I would like to find an apartment near the Centro area. Also, Does anyone know if it is possible to apply for my elective residence visa here in ...
You must apply for and obtain an elective residency visa before leaving your home country. For a codice fiscale visit the nearest Agenzie dell'Entrate (tax office), with photocopies of your passport, passport and the completed A8 module which you ... Read More
Wasp Infestation by trevorcarroll1
HiWe own a house on the Abruzzo/Lazio border near Carsoli and have found the property has been infested by wasps, or at least one room has. We are experiencing problems trying to find someone or some company who will deal with the problem. We ...
There dont seem to be many specialisted companies in your area - its likely you will have to get someone out from Rome. Search for disinfestazione vespe on google and there are lots of Rome companies who may or may not be bothered to come out and ... Read More
How hard is it to buy property in Italy? by Jimmie Gibson
I'm thinking of spending a long period in Europe (5+ years) and I want to buy a house somewhere to use as a home base in between bouts of traveling. There are different options on my list, but Italy is at the top right now. How hard is it to buy ...
Its very easy to buy property in Italy, as long as there is the reciprocity with your home country. What is more complicated is your right to live and stay in Italy for longer than 90 days, and that needs to be studied in advance. The actual ... Read More
RealEstate Agent's fee by CleoDe
Hello, We are considering walking away from the property we put in an offer. Closing suppose to be in 2 weeks, end of December. We asked for a month extension for a closing. The seller agreed, but the real estate agent asked for his "commission" ...
It is a common misconception that you can walk away from a purchase and lose the deposit. You can do this, but only by agreement with both parties. A caparra confermatoria means that the seller (in this case) can take you to court and force you ... Read More
purchasing documents in Italy by CleoDe
Does anyone know the legal difference between a Purchasing proposal(Proposta di acquista) and a Preliminary Contract?We never signed the second one and want to see if the first one is as obligatory and we can get out.We paid a deposit, though. ...
It is pretty common now for a proposta di acquisto to 'become' a compromesso upon countersigning. However, it should still be only used if the timeline is short between offer and act of sale. In your case, you signed a proposta which was accepted. ... Read More
Confusion about property taxes by Jessica Duffin
Hi all, We're new here! We are currently in Abruzzo for three months looking to buy a small property (this is our first house purchase, so starting small!). We have seen a house for 12000 euros that we really love, but we are a bit confused by the ...
The agent should be able to tell you exactly how much the taxes/imposte are on the sale as well as their fee. The notary fee is decided by the notary, so they can usually only give you a ball park figure for that.The agency should have their ... Read More
Confusion about property taxes by Jessica Duffin
Hi all, We're new here! We are currently in Abruzzo for three months looking to buy a small property (this is our first house purchase, so starting small!). We have seen a house for 12000 euros that we really love, but we are a bit confused by the ...
Tell your agent you want to see the visure for the house. Its a public document and she has no reason not to send you it. That will have the rateable value on it. Did the agent tell you how much you would have to pay them before you committed to ... Read More
Confusion about property taxes by Jessica Duffin
Hi all, We're new here! We are currently in Abruzzo for three months looking to buy a small property (this is our first house purchase, so starting small!). We have seen a house for 12000 euros that we really love, but we are a bit confused by the ...
There are minima for taxes - so the absolute minimum you can pay is 1100 euros plus 50 + 50. 2000 - 2500 is now normalish for a notary for a smaller house.Do you have the rateable value for the property? What is appalling is the agency. 4000 ... Read More
RealEstate Agent's fee by CleoDe
Hello, We are considering walking away from the property we put in an offer. Closing suppose to be in 2 weeks, end of December. We asked for a month extension for a closing. The seller agreed, but the real estate agent asked for his "commission" ...
The law says that commission is payable to the agent when 'the affair is completed' - and legally that means after the preliminary of sale. Most agents want paying at this point, some are paid at atto - but the right to the money ... Read More
income requirements of an elective D visa by welhamchris
Hello all, I'm Chris from the UK and am looking to retire in the Roccastrada area of Tuscany. My Italian is basic but am slowly learning. I would appreciate any advice on what information you need to provide in order to meet the income requirements ...
The internet says 2580 euros per person per month. Read More
Will Italy go back to providing driving tests in English? by hovigA
So Imagine my surprise when finding out that the driving test is no longer given in English.Not only that, but learning of the long drawn out process it takes to acquire an Italian DL for ANYONE, immigrant or citizen, when in the US I can do it ...
Its 13 years since the the test was abolished in English. An EU rule, so it wont change soon. There are driving school which teach the theory in English, but the test remains only in Italian. Read More
How to correctly charge tenants for their Energy and Gas usage by Jansen Machado
Hello!I am seeking clarification on the subject, so I can fight for my rights with some knowledge. I will try to make this short, but first, here is some context:I rented a room in a 2-bedroom apartment (or trilocale, as Italians call it) in ...
Did you have your own meter or were you on a sub meter from the landlord? The electricity component is not the larger part of low bills - there are a host of fixed charges, which are at the cost of the renter, so if you had your own meter, you would ... Read More
Finding "detached" homes by Dan_M
So in the U.S., a "detached" home is one with no shared (or common) walls with neighboring homes.. When using this filter term for on-line home listings, it seems like this has a different meaning in Italy. Many listed as detached have no open ...
It depends where you are looking. IN a town you would search for a casa independente - but that doesnt necessarily mean its detached. IN the countryside it could be a casale, casa, casa rurale, - it all depends on how the site you are using ... Read More
Rental : What are the normal rules in Italy ? by chards12
Hello I’m looking for some urgent,I hope you can help me.I’m trying to rent an apartment for one month in Milan, and I signed a lease and paid my deposit Incase of any damage on a fully furnished studio for a one month rental.Only ...
The property owner is not being honest with you. If you have a contract (and the insurance is not listed in it) you have no obligation to pay. You can go to the Guardia di Finanza and report him, or tell him you will go to the Guardia or the ... Read More
Renting/Leasing a car by dorianneferrante8888
Hi. We are from Malta, interested in purchasing a small holiday appattment in a hsmlet on the mountains. We need to know whether any car renting companies have affordable prices for long term eg 6 weeks. Driving is a must to get to our ...
HI. 6 weeks is not considered a long term rental. If you are comingover in low season you will find good deals- in high season its virtually impossible. Obviously its cheaper if you find a local supplier rather than hire from the airport. ... Read More
Noise, regulations and rights by mark1121
We moved to a city centre flat in Italy 3 years ago. I love Italy and would like to remain, but the biggest problem we've had has been noise - in this building and in neighbouring ones.This includes in the neighbouring flat which had work which ...
There are noise laws - your neighbours can start work at 7 (loud machinery at 8). They must stop for 2 hours at lunchtime - usually between 1 and 3 and must stop at 7 in the evening. There is a maximum of decibels permitted. Noise is one the ... Read More
Insuring a classic (54 years old) Italian car in Italy? by diterra
I own a left-hand drive 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider (105-1750) that I purchased and restored in 1990. I shipped it with me to New Zealand where it has sat in the garage ever since. The NZ border control first registration process became a license to ...
Yes you can register as a classic car and pay next to nothing. Read More
Housing in Rome Italy by mjgillard57
My daughter is starting school in October at Rome business school but it is so difficult to find a realtor to assist. In addition, she has a small dog and needs a place close to a park or a building that has grass to walk the dog.I welcome any ...
You dont say where or what or for how long? Does she want to buy or rent? What sort of rental contract does she want? Where in Rome does she want to be? Read More
Best International bank account by jules3be
Hi, I am moving from the UK to Italy and I need to know which bank is best for offering an international current account. Just been told that you have to be resident in the UK to have a Barclays current account.Any advise welcome.Thanks
Any bank will accept payments from third countries, but as you are receiving GBP presumably and wanting to deposit that in euros will end up costing you alot with traditional banking. If you get a Wise card you can transfer your money into euros ... Read More
Best International bank account by jules3be
Hi, I am moving from the UK to Italy and I need to know which bank is best for offering an international current account. Just been told that you have to be resident in the UK to have a Barclays current account.Any advise welcome.Thanks
It depends where you are going to be living. If you have a credit agricole in your town, then they seem a good bet. There arent many intl banks in Italy so your choice is Deutschebank, a couple of French ones and perhaps a couple of others. ... Read More
Certificato di stato libero for UK citizens in Italy by efd
Hello, I'm buying a house in Milan with my partner who’s an English citizen with residenza in Italy. At the moment both the bank and the notary ask us for the certificato libero which, however, both the embassy and the consulate have confirmed ...
Do they mean the nulla osta? (Certificate of no impediment)- which you would need to get married showing that you were free to do so. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nulla-osta-application-pack-for-marriages-in-italy Read More
Car ownership by Pintail
We have bought a house in Italy, but can’t buy a car?!?we are Uk citizens with a retirement visa and a receipt for our first PdS application.do we have to wait 5 years?
Whether they give you a PdS for 1 or 2 years seems a bit arbitrary, but your residence will/may have an expiry date which is the same as your PdS, and will therefore have to be renewed when you renew your PdS. After 5 years you will acquire ... Read More
moving to italy by dtognarelli2
Ciao tutti!I am a retired female teacher and am thinking of spending about 2 months in Italy next year, if possible. I have been looking at rentals on various websites but am reluctant to book an apartment when I don't know how trustworthy and ...
If you are looking for a two month rental, a realtor will not be able to help. You are stuck with tourist rental contracts, which 95% of realtors do not do, because of the need to register contracts and the costs involved. Contracts here are for ... Read More
Moving to Abruzzo by PeMaci
Hi everybody,We are looking at the possibility to move to Abruzzo. We are a family of five with 3 children so our main concern are the schools.The intenion is to rent a house, so we can take a look at the properties and buy a prefabbricated house. ...
Assuming you can come and live in Italy with no problem I would say this:Schools are not built well. The Aquila earthquake caused the deaths of many students, because their hall of residence was built so badly. Schools tend to close when there is ... Read More
Car ownership by Pintail
We have bought a house in Italy, but can’t buy a car?!?we are Uk citizens with a retirement visa and a receipt for our first PdS application.do we have to wait 5 years?
No. You will be claiming residence as you are living here with a visa, so you can buy a car. You just need your residence first. Read More
Canadian looking for info about moving to or living in Italy by Todd Ramirez
Hi, everyone.I'm a Canadian currently living and working in the U.S. I just accepted a job offer with a U.S. company that will allow me to work from anywhere in the world.I'd love to hear from others - I'm now seriously considering spending some of ...
Keeping in touch with your office while you are on holiday is one thing, working is another. Technically if you are working while here, you are earning in Italy and tax is payable in ITaly. But its virtually impossible to check and prove. For a ... Read More
Lease for Visa purposes by kthaye2
I've read about "dummy" accommodation bookings for Schengen visa but the Italian government wants proof of a year's lease when applying for a visa. Is anyone aware of a way to sign a "dummy" lease?
'Italy seems to complicated' - ? Perhaps it is better that you look somewhere else. If the visa is too much trouble, you will find day to day living beyond you. Read More
Drivers License Transfer by aagianni9
Hi there,I'm Canadian, married to an Italian, we're planning on moving to Italy permanently later this year. Does anyone have any info on going about getting their Italian license? After the 1yr is up on using our Canadian licenses are we going to ...
You will need to go to the Motorizzazione in your town/province and ask for the conversione of your licence. It takes about 1 month. Make sure you have your International Drivers Permit. You will have to surrender your Canadian licence. Read More
Lease for Visa purposes by kthaye2
I've read about "dummy" accommodation bookings for Schengen visa but the Italian government wants proof of a year's lease when applying for a visa. Is anyone aware of a way to sign a "dummy" lease?
It depends. If you are applying for a an elective residence visa then yes you must have proof of address so you will need an act of sale to show you own a property or a registered contract at the tax office. No shortcuts and no dummy leases. Read More