"I can't believe we live in Italy!"
You can do it too! The first 3 stages of moving to Italy, why renting first may be your best bet and island life for € 1.
Benvenuti, amici. We’re glad you’ve made it over to our cozy corner of the world, where we share the best tips and tricks to help make your new life in Italy a reality. Don’t think you can do it? Keep reading to meet some community members who thought the same thing…but now call Italy home.
We’ve also included some incredible Italian eye candy in the form of a coastal location spotlight, as well as a surprising offer from an Italian island (how does € 1 rent sound?). There’s lots to cover so let’s dig in.
Community Success - “I can’t believe we live in Italy!” 🇮🇹
We love sharing success stories from our community and Peter and Diane Marino have a great one to tell. They’ve made their Italian dreams come true and now call a small town in the Teramo province of Abruzzo home. Smart Move Italy has been with them from the start — from finding a property to pursuing citizenship. Maybe their journey will inspire you to create your own new life in Italy. 👇
How did you hear about Smart Move Italy?
Our story started about three years ago. I had met someone who had acquired his dual citizenship in Italy and when I asked how he did it, he sent me to Smart Move Italy. I did some research and then signed up for one of Samantha’s online “boot camps.” I wasn’t really considering getting citizenship or moving to Italy full-time, but I did enjoy the information shared. After seeing the enthusiasm and obvious expertise coming from Samantha, the idea began to form in my mind that maybe this could be possible.
What services did you use?
Initially, I was just looking for general information about Italy and what it might mean to own a property. So without any intent of moving here, we used the skills of Patrizia and Luca who showed us many properties in several different areas: Tuscany, Umbria, Abruzzo. With their help, we found a lovely apartment. The intent was to use it as a holiday home and rent it when we were not in the country but, after a while, we decided to investigate my getting my citizenship, as both sides of my family came from Sicily. This is when I became engaged with Terry and the other staff that helped me navigate the process.
Tell us about moving to Italy.
The experience of organizing a move to Italy is daunting. Family and friends can be excited or think you're crazy, but that's the easy stuff. Deciding what to bring from home i.e. clothes, furniture, housewares, etc....and then, there were two dogs to get over here. Through every step of the way, the people at Smart Move Italy were only an email or a phone call away. The process is difficult and anyone who thinks that "La Dolce Vita" is just a plane ride away, will find that they will have to use organizational muscles that they may not have used in a while.
Throughout the entire process (and it's not finished yet) my wife and I look at each other every morning, shake our heads, and say "I can't believe we live in Italy!" With all the challenges we wouldn't trade this experience for anything. I was initially concerned that, after being here a while, I would lose the wonder of this country....it hasn't happened yet. We look forward to many more years living like Italians.
What tips would you give to people interested in following in your footsteps?
Anyone interested in the process should plan one or more trips here to experience the regions and determine where they feel most comfortable.
Make a strong effort to learn as much of the Italian language as you can. Although we had access to translators and many people do speak at least some English, being able to speak the language and communicate with the locals will make your experience so much richer and shows respect for the culture.
Anyone coming over to apply for the various types of visas or citizenship, one of the first purchases you should make when you arrive is a printer! To find out that you have a copy of a document for a government office can be frustrating if you don't have the ability to print at will.
Realize that Italian drivers are very different from American drivers. Just take a deep breath and pay attention to your GPS rather than the person who came up from behind out of nowhere....he only wants to pass.
If the Marino’s story is lighting a fire under your Italian dream, let us know how we can help. You can start by taking this quick quiz to see if citizenship could be in your future. 👇
Podcast Corner - Starting from scratch
Starting to plan your move to Italy can be one of the most exciting times in your journey. Undoubtedly, you have dreams of what life will look like once you find your way to Bel Paese and you just can’t wait to make it happen. We appreciate your passion, but we’ve also learned a thing or two having helped many people do exactly what you’re hoping to. In a recent podcast, our Chief Dream Maker, Samantha Wilson, shares her blueprint for a successful move.
There are 5 stages of moving to Italy: Learning. Evaluating. Applying. Arriving. Settling in. This episode covers the all-important first 3 stages. In the first stage, you learn all you can about Italy, which can be the most daunting just given the sheer amount of information out there. At this point, it’s important to carefully evaluate your sources. Just because information is available doesn’t mean it’s true so you really have to be discerning. Who can you trust? In this episode, Sam gives some excellent tips on evaluating the legitimacy of your sources. Is the information you’re digesting fact…or fiction?
When you take the time to start from the right place, and you understand what you need to do, and in what order, then the stress will be reduced, and all of your chances of success will skyrocket.
- Samantha Wilson
Once you have your footing, the next stages are evaluating your options and applying for the specific pathway that meets your circumstances. Having a strong foundation and starting the process on the right foot will make the whole experience easier so be sure to listen to the whole episode for Sam’s best advice.
A Case for Renting First
One of the most frequently asked questions we’ve heard here at SMI is: Where in Italy should I buy a property? While we wish there was an easy answer, the truth is that….IT DEPENDS. There are so many factors that go into a decision like this and what may be right for someone else may not be right for you. Finding the perfect location can take some detective work and, more than anything, realistic exposure to that area.
When searching for a property, it really does help to get as specific with the location as possible. But how do you do that? Renting first allows you to dive into a community and actually DO life in that area before committing. After all, when you graduate from vacationing in Italy to living in Italy, things can change quite a bit. You’ll have to buy groceries, visit the doctor, find a pharmacist, a vet, and a church. Life is still… life.
We’ve all seen the posts on social media sites of someone complaining that the Italian village they moved to is…too small, unwelcoming, not connected to transportation, etc, etc… The best way to avoid being this person is to give your prospective community a test run. Renting allows you to “try on” a certain town and, while you’re there, you can explore other locations without the risk of committing.
Sure, some people buy sight unseen but that is a huge risk. If you’re willing to take it, more power to you, but for the vast majority of hopeful Italian property owners, there’s nothing quite like first-hand experience.
There are a few different leasing options in Italy. A transitorio contract is considered short-term. It can last for a month to 18 months and is not renewable. This is ideal for someone who is, for example, in Italy to acquire citizenship through jure sanguinis. The long-term contracts are 4+4 (a four-year lease with the option to renew for another 4 years) and 3+2 (a three-year lease with an option to renew for another 2 years). These may sound like bigger commitments than you’re comfortable with but most contracts allow tenants to break the lease with a 6-month notice.
If you’re ready to rent, we’re ready to help you find a place. Submit your rental request today and take a step towards your new life in Italy!
A New Life in Italy on YouTube - Sarah’s Story
Our new YouTube series has really touched a nerve, not only with our SMI community but with Italophiles around the world. Our first episode introduced you to 4 people who picked up everything and set off on an adventure, settling in various areas of Tuscany. Judging by the pile of comments and emails we’ve received, you want MORE…and we’ve delivered.
Our latest release delves deep into Sarah’s story, sharing why she decided to make the big move, how she did it, and the moment she knew Italy had changed her life. Sarah’s transparency is refreshing and her insights will surely give you a solid understanding of what it’s like to actually move to Italy from a very different culture. Spoiler alert: She loves it here! Find out why by watching the full episode now.👇 While you’re at it, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel so you don’t miss the rest of this series.
Location Spotlight - Salerno, Campania
Lots of words come to mind when talking about Salerno, but one sums it up perfectly: Stunning! Its physical beauty rivals the beauty of the people. There’s definitely a buzz in this coastal town — an energy that is palpable and contagious. Maybe it’s the Mediterranean sun or the Amalfi vibes that leave people a bit giddy.
With a population of over 135,000 people, Salerno is a good-sized city with plenty of options for transportation, dining, recreation, and cultural attractions. Some can’t-miss sites include the Duomo di Salerno, the archaeological ruins at Paestum (and the adjoining museum), and the medieval Castello di Arechi. Here, you’ll also have access to excellent medical facilities while being close to the endless services in Naples, which is about 45 minutes away.
Can’t resist Salerno? Not many can, and we found the perfect property to consider…especially if you’re looking for an investment. This👆incredible apartment is a bit of a splurge at € 590.000 but it’s currently used as a luxury B&B so you can just imagine the potential! With 4 beds and 4 baths, it could be just what you’re looking for. Want to see all the details? Don’t forget to subscribe to Vendita for 30 property picks sent to you every Sunday. To subscribe via email, click here or join our Telegram channel. It’s completely free!
Stay in Ollolai, Sardinia for € 1
Since its introduction back in the 2010s, Italy’s € 1 home program has caught the attention of travelers all over the world. For some, buying a € 1 home has been a dream come true. But others would describe it as more of a nightmare. Between finding construction professionals, the bureaucracy, and the very healthy budget needed to make a property liveable, the challenge is more than many can take. Still, the scheme is going strong with more towns adding to the list of available properties all the time.
The program’s popularity has inspired several spin-off schemes. One comes from Ollolai, Sardinia, a charming town right in the middle of the Blue Zone island. If € 1 homes aren’t for you, perhaps you’d be more interested in a short-term stay. If so, bring your professional expertise to Ollolai and they’ll give you € 1 rent for a month.
The village of Ollolai is seeking successful professionals who are eager to contribute to the community by sharing their knowledge through presentations, classes, or projects related to their respective fields, careers, or experiences. In exchange for this valuable contribution, you’ll enjoy an almost free stay in the village!
- From the Work From Ollolai website
Basically, if you’re willing to share your background with the community through a presentation, lecture, or lessons, the town will arrange € 1 rent. Sounds like the perfect opportunity for a getaway! Click the link👇 to apply.
An Italian Icon - Monica Vitti 🎥
Her given name was Maria Luisa Ceciarelli but the world knew her as Monica Vitti. Born in Rome on November 3rd, 1931, Vitti starred in more than 50 films between 1954 and 1989, winning distinguished awards for many of them including L'Avventura, La Notte, and L'Eclisse. Often referred to as the “Queen of Italian Cinema,” Vitti was able to master both dramatic and comedic roles.
In her later years, Vitti wrote two books (Sette Sottane and Il Letto è una Rosa) and directed the movie Scandalo Segreto (Secret Scandal) in 1990. She died in February of 2022 but left behind a beautiful legacy that lives on in her artistic works. Do you have a favorite Monica Vitti movie? Let us know👇on our Facebook page.
Ask Samantha Anything (ASA)
Send your questions to sophia@smartmoveitaly.com.
Dear Sam: I’m in the very early stages of pursuing Italian citizenship recognition. My mother was a minor when my Italian-born grandfather naturalized so I’ve been told I have a “minor issue.” What exactly is this and how should it impact the route I take (consulate, court, comune)? I don’t want to go through the process of gathering documents only to be shot down by the powers that be. Thanks!
Dear Laurie: I have some bad news for you, I’m afraid. What you are referring to is about proceeding via a citizenship petition in the courts of Italy. This happens when the citizenship has to pass through a female before 1948 or, through a no-appointment petition when you can’t get an appointment at a consulate.
The courts in Italy have recently decided that if the next in line was still a minor (under 21) when the Italian ancestor naturalized, then the bloodline was broken and the citizenship is not recognized.
This recent decision by a Roman court judge caused a lot of friction and there have been many appeals (including our legal team). But unfortunately, they are all failing and the ruling has stuck. Of course, courts are not bound by this decision, but most will follow it.
What this means, is that if your ancestor was under the age of 21 when the Italian naturalized, then your chances of winning a case are extremely low.
Want to Dig Deeper?
We love to bring you free resources like Vendita (our property newsletter), a guide to Italian visas, and, of course, Italy Per Te. We also have a private membership for those who want to dig deeper and take their commitment to a new life in Italy to a new level.
Included in this membership are: our signature Vita Italia course, a supportive community, an information vault jam-packed with resources, and leadership and guidance with monthly events hosted by industry experts. One of the highlights of this membership is a monthly Q&A with Sam who answers community questions in-depth. Interested in learning more? Now may be the perfect time to join us. We hope to see you there.
As always, thank you for being a part of the Smart Move Italy famiglia. A presto!