Moving to Italy from the USA in 2025: The Complete Guide for Expats, Investors, and Families

 Why More Americans Are Choosing to Move to Italy in 2025

Italy has become one of the most sought-after destinations for Americans looking to start a new chapter abroad. Whether you’re drawn by the historic charm of Rome, the romantic beauty of Tuscany, or the serene coastal towns of the Amalfi Coast, moving to Italy from the USA has never been more popular.

In recent years, the number of U.S. citizens applying for Italian visas has increased dramatically, fueled by the rise of remote work, better healthcare access, affordable living in southern regions, and the sheer cultural allure Italy offers.

Visa Options for Moving to Italy from the USA

Before packing your bags, you’ll need to understand the right visa pathway. Here are the most common options for Americans:

1. Elective Residency Visa

The Elective Residency Visa is perfect for retirees or financially independent individuals who don’t plan to work in Italy but want to live there long-term. To qualify, applicants must prove stable income or assets (typically $40,000+ annually) and show proof of accommodation in Italy.

This visa does not allow employment in Italy, but it’s ideal for U.S. citizens living on pensions, passive income, or remote business earnings.

2. Work Visa (Employment or Self-Employment)

If you have a job offer in Italy, or plan to start a business, you may be eligible for a work visa. Self-employment visas are more complex and often require regional authorization and proof of economic benefit to the local area.

3. Investor Visa

Italy’s Investor Visa program is becoming increasingly attractive to American entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals. Minimum investment thresholds include:

• €250,000 in an Italian innovative startup

• €500,000 in a company operating in Italy

• €2 million in Italian government bonds

• €1 million in philanthropic projects supporting Italy

This visa allows residence for two years, renewable, with a pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship.

4. Digital Nomad Visa (Coming Soon)

Italy is planning to launch a Digital Nomad Visa specifically targeting remote workers and freelancers with non-Italian clients. The requirements will likely include income verification and health insurance. It is expected to be implemented in late 2025.

Cost of Living in Italy vs the USA

One of the biggest motivations for moving to Italy is the lower cost of living—especially when compared to cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco.

Here’s a rough comparison:

Living in Italy doesn’t just offer savings—it provides access to universal healthcare, vibrant food culture, and walkable cities.

Best Cities and Regions in Italy for American Expats

Depending on your lifestyle and budget, these are top picks for Americans moving to Italy:

Rome and Milan

Great for professionals and digital nomads who thrive in big city environments.

Florence and Bologna

Perfect for culture lovers, artists, and students.

Lecce, Bari, and Palermo

Ideal for those seeking an affordable Mediterranean lifestyle with fewer tourists.

Lake Como and Dolomites

Great for retirees and nature enthusiasts seeking luxury and tranquility.

 Legal Requirements and Bureaucracy You Should Expect

Moving to Italy involves more than just obtaining a visa. You’ll also need to:

• Register with the Anagrafe (local registry)

• Apply for a Codice Fiscale (Italian tax ID)

• Sign up for national health insurance (SSN)

• Open a local bank account

• Translate and validate U.S. documents through apostille and official translations

Italian bureaucracy can be slow, so starting early and having legal support is highly recommended.

Tips for a Smooth Relocation from the USA to Italy

Relocating internationally can be stressful. Here are pro tips:

• Hire a relocation consultant for local support

• Use a certified immigration lawyer for visa applications

• Ship personal items with an international mover

• Get international health insurance for initial coverage

• Learn basic Italian phrases to ease integration

Planning ahead can make the difference between a chaotic move and a seamless transition.

 Dual Citizenship: Can You Keep Your U.S. Passport?

Yes. Italy and the United States both allow dual citizenship. If you qualify through Italian ancestry (Jure Sanguinis) or long-term residency, you can become an Italian citizen without renouncing your U.S. nationality.

This grants you EU-wide mobility, access to healthcare, and educational benefits across Europe.

Why 2025 Is the Best Time to Move to Italy from the USA

Several trends are aligning in 2025 that make it an ideal year to move:

• Strong dollar to euro exchange rates

• Italy’s rising focus on attracting foreign residents

• New visa types launching (Digital Nomad)

• More properties available in southern Italy at record-low prices

• Lower interest in big cities post-COVID, opening space for international buyers

 Your Italian Dream Is Within Reach

Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, investing, or simply craving la dolce vita, moving to Italy from the USA is more achievable than ever. With the right preparation and support, your transition can be smooth, legal, and deeply rewarding.

At NotteGlobal, we help Americans navigate the Italian immigration process from start to finish—from choosing the right visa to securing housing and registering locally.