Moving to Italy: Work visas explained and key steps for retirement
If you're planning to move to Italy as a non-EU national, applying for a visa is the very first thing you'll have to deal with in your preparations.
But obtaining an Italian visto can be challenging, especially if you're looking to work in the country.
Italy is known for its labour market protectionism, with the majority of work visas issued under a stringent quota-based system – the so-called decreto flussi (flows decree).
But while getting an Italian work visa is generally a complex and lengthy process, that doesn't mean they're impossible to get.
We rounded up the main visa options available to non-EU citizens in 2025 and their requirements.
Italy's warm climate, lower cost of living and relaxed pace of life all make it appealing to foreign retirees, as do financial incentives such as a special flat tax rate for pensioners.
But what exactly do you need to do to retire to Italy?
The bureaucratic procedures involved in the relocation process range from straightforward to challenging depending on your circumstances, particularly whether you're an EU or non-EU national.
But while non-EU retirees can generally expect to face more obstacles than their EU counterparts, both groups still have to complete a number of steps before they can secure full residency in Italy.
What you can and cannot do as a non-resident in Italy
Foreigners in Italy are considered Italian residents for tax purposes if they spend at least 183 days out of the year in the country – anyone not in this position is considered a visitor.
If you enjoy coming to Italy on short visits, you may want to keep things just as they are.
But if you own property in Italy and spend a significant amount of time here, you may be wondering whether it's worth taking the plunge and becoming a resident.
To help with your decision, here's a breakdown of the major things that you can and can't do as a non-resident foreigner in Italy.
Questions
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