Your Guide to Moving from UK to Italy Post-Brexit

TL;DR: Moving to Italy from the UK means getting a long-term visa. From late 2026 or 2027, even short visits will need an ETIAS travel permit. The cost of living in Italy is generally lower than the UK, especially for rent; a city-centre one-bedroom apartment costs around £640 in Italy compared to £1,041 in the UK. Many UK banks might close accounts or require a UK phone number for security checks, so it’s vital to plan how to keep your home number active to stay connected.

Imagine you’ve just settled into your new life in Italy, surrounded by beautiful scenery and delicious food. Suddenly, you need to log into your UK bank account to transfer money or pay a bill. You get stuck because your bank sends a verification code to your old UK mobile number, a number that no longer works because you didn’t plan how to keep it active. This common problem can make many expats feel cut off and stressed. Staying reachable and making sure your home phone number still works abroad is very important. This is especially true when dealing with the new rules for post-Brexit moving Italy.

Can You Move to Italy from the UK After Brexit?

Yes, you can move to Italy from the UK, but the process is now more involved than it was before Brexit. Italy is a member of the Schengen Area. For short trips up to 90 days within any 180-day period, UK citizens currently do not need an entry visa. However, starting from late 2026 or 2027, UK citizens will need to get an ETIAS travel authorization to visit Italy for these short stays. An ETIAS is an online approval for travel, not a visa [1].

If your goal is to live and work in Italy, you will need a specific long-term visa. These are often called national visas or D visas [2]. This type of visa is essential for anyone planning a permanent move.

What Has Changed for Moving to Italy from the UK Since Brexit?

It is now more challenging for UK citizens to live and work in an EU country after Brexit. However, it is certainly not impossible to make the move. To relocate to Italy, you must meet the requirements for and successfully get a long-term Italian visa.

If you do not already speak Italian, learning the language will be a significant step. While it can be difficult, putting in the effort is very important if you want to fully integrate into Italian society and feel truly at home. Speaking Italian will open up many opportunities and make daily life much smoother.

How Do I Get an Italian Visa?

There are different long-term Italian visa options available for UK citizens, depending on why you want to move. Generally, you need to apply for your visa while you are still in the UK. This will usually involve attending an appointment at the Italian Embassy [3].

What are the main types of Italian visas?

The main types of long-term visas include:

• The Italy study visa (for students)
• The Italy work visa (for those with a job offer)
• The Italy self-employment visa (for freelancers or business owners)
• The Italy family visa (for joining family members)
• The Italy retirement visa (for those planning on retiring in Italy) [3]

The documents you need will vary based on the exact visa type. For example, if you are applying for a work visa, you will need a valid passport, a recent photograph, and a nulla osta for work. This is a special permit given by the Single Immigration Desk (SUI) in Italy [4].

What do I do after getting my Italian visa?

Once you receive your visa, an important next step is to apply for a residence permit, known as a permesso di soggiorno. You must apply for this within 8 days of arriving in Italy. You will need to show proof of private health insurance, along with documents that explain the reason for your stay [3].

What is the Best Way to Move to Italy from the UK?

The best way to complete your move to Italy will depend on your personal situation. If you plan to work, the most straightforward option is to secure a job with an Italian employer who can sponsor your visa application.

If you are a freelancer or work for yourself, the self-employment visa might be a good fit. For this visa, you will need to provide proof that you have enough income to support yourself. You will also need a certificate from the Chamber of Commerce that allows you to work, and a nulla osta, among other documents [4].

What is the Cheapest Way to Get to Italy from the UK?

The quickest and easiest way to travel to Italy from the UK is by flying. Typically, September is the cheapest month for flights, with average ticket prices around £14 [5].

You can often find good deals if you are flexible with your travel dates. However, some months are more expensive. For example, a one-way flight from London to Bologna can cost over £100 in August [6]. Checking different dates and airports can help you find the best price.

How Do I Transport My Belongings to Italy?

Sending your items to Italy

Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, transporting belongings to Italy involves a more complex process. The best approach is often to hire a professional moving company. They are familiar with all the latest import rules and paperwork [7].

You have several options for sending your things:

• Air freight: This is the fastest choice, especially if you need your items quickly.
• Sea freight: A cost-effective option for large amounts of goods, though it takes longer.
• Road freight: Often the cheapest and best method for large items, though it involves longer travel times over land.

You can get quotes from various companies, such as PSS Removals, Britannia Movers, 1st Move International, and Pickfords [7].

Can I drive my belongings to Italy myself?

Yes, you can also choose to drive to Italy and transport your belongings yourself. There are different routes available. You will need to take either a ferry or the Channel Tunnel to reach France first, and then continue your drive from there into Italy [8]. This option can be good for smaller moves or if you prefer to have your vehicle with you.

What is a Checklist for Moving to Italy from the UK?

Here are some of the most important steps to consider when preparing for moving to Italy from the UK:

• Research the available Italian visa options, gather all necessary documents, and apply for the visa that suits your purpose.
• Find a place to live in Italy, whether it’s temporary accommodation or a long-term rental.
• Get several price estimates for shipping your belongings to Italy from different moving companies.
• Start looking into Italian banks and find out if you can open an account before you arrive.
• Learn about the process for registering for healthcare in Italy once you become a resident.
• Understand the steps required to get your residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) as soon as you arrive.
• Inform HMRC (His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) that you are leaving the UK to manage your tax situation. You can find more comprehensive details in a general UK relocation guide or a final month checklist.
• Book your flight to Italy.
• Plan how you will keep your UK phone number active. This is crucial for staying connected and managing UK-based accounts.

What Are Some Quick Facts About Living in Italy?

If you are thinking about living in Italy, here are some important facts to know:

• Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
• Main language: Italian is the primary language spoken.
• Population: Italy has a population of approximately 58,934,044 people [9].
• British Expats: Around 25,745 British citizens live in Italy [10].
• Popular Expat Cities: Many expatriates choose to live in well-known cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence.

What is the Cost of Living in Italy Compared to the UK?

The cost of living in Italy is generally lower when compared to the UK. This is especially true for housing costs like rent. Some expenses, such as groceries, tend to be roughly the same in both countries [11].

Let’s look at some average prices for common items and services in Italy, compared to what you might pay in the UK:

Item/Service	Average Cost in Italy	Average Cost in UK
Three-course meal for two	£60	£65
Monthly public transport pass	£33	£76
Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment (city centre)	£640	£1,041
Monthly utilities for an average apartment	£173	£173

As you can see from the table, expenses like rent and public transport are noticeably cheaper in Italy [11]. A monthly public transport pass, for instance, costs less than half the price in Italy compared to the UK. This difference can significantly impact your budget when post-Brexit moving Italy. When considering your daily spending, also think about how you’ll pay for things. For more on local payment methods, you can read about cash vs. card in Italy.

How Do I Open an Italian Bank Account?

Why is an Italian bank account essential?

Opening an Italian bank account is a crucial step for managing your daily expenses, paying taxes, and receiving your salary. There are also bank account options for non-residents, known as conto corrente non residente. However, these might not provide the full range of banking services that a resident account offers [12].

What documents do I need for a resident bank account?

To open a resident bank account in Italy, you will typically need the following documents:

• Proof of your identity (such as your passport or national ID card).
• Proof of your address in Italy.
• An Italian tax code (codice fiscale).
• Proof of your residence permit.
• Proof of your job or student status [12].

Some Italian banks might ask for additional documents or require a minimum deposit to open the account [12].

Can I keep my UK bank account after moving?

Whether you can keep your UK bank account after moving to Italy from the UK depends on your specific bank. For example, some banks like Barclays will close both your current and savings accounts once you move abroad [13]. It’s important to check with your bank before you leave. This is also why keeping your UK phone number can be so important; many UK bank accounts require a UK number for two-factor authentication, making it difficult to access your funds if you lose your number.

How Can I Find a Job in Italy as a UK Expat?

Is it difficult to find a job in Italy?

Having a job in Italy is necessary for certain types of Italian visas. You might also consider starting your own business or working as a freelancer. Finding a job in Italy as an expat can be challenging, especially if you do not speak Italian. Most job opportunities are found in the northern regions of Italy, which are more developed. However, your job options will still be limited without knowing the Italian language [14].

Some of the industries with high demand for workers include:

• Technology
• Healthcare
• Engineering [14]

What if I want to be self-employed or start a business?

If you want to work for yourself in Italy, you will need a suitable visa and a work permit. The visa requirements include getting a nulla osta from the police station in your area. You also need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and that you have adequate health insurance [4].

Here are some popular websites to help you start your job search in Italy:

• Glassdoor (for English-speaking jobs)
• Jooble (for English-speaking jobs)
• Reed
• Total Jobs
• TrovoLavoro.it

If you are thinking about starting a business in Italy, the exact process will depend on the type of company you want to create. However, you will need a business visa. Some of the common business visas are the self-employed visa, investor visa, or start-up visa [15].

How Do I Rent or Buy Property in Italy?

Can UK citizens buy property in Italy?

Yes, UK nationals who have an Italian residence permit can buy property in Italy. This is possible because there is a special agreement between the two countries [16]. It’s best to speak with a local property lawyer for this process. They will help you with important steps like drafting a preliminary contract (compromesso), paying a deposit, and meeting all the legal requirements [16]. If you enjoy big projects, you could even think about renovating or building a house in Italy.

How do I rent property in Italy?

Renting property in Italy is often more popular among expats, especially until they are fully settled. Once you find a place you like, you will typically need to provide the landlord with the following documents:

• Proof of your identity (like your passport or ID card).
• Your Italian tax code (codice fiscale).
• Your last three months of pay slips, or your tax return if you are self-employed [17].

You will also be asked to pay a security deposit. It’s often possible to negotiate the amount of this deposit. If you live in a building with shared areas, known as a condominio, you will also pay spese condominiali. These are service charges for keeping the buildings and common areas well-maintained [17].

Here are some popular websites where you can search for rentals in Italy:

• Immobiliare.it
• Idealista.it
• Spotahome
• Casa.it

When looking for a place to rent or buy, remember the importance of reliable communication. Landlords or real estate agents will need to contact you easily. If you keep your UK phone number working, you can ensure seamless communication, avoiding delays or missed opportunities. For more details on how to manage your number when you move, read our guide on what happens to your number when you move abroad.

How Does Healthcare in Italy Work for UK Expats?

Can UK expats get free healthcare in Italy?

Once you become a legal resident in Italy, you gain access to the public healthcare in Italy for free. Even minor children of foreign nationals are guaranteed access to this public healthcare system [18].

How do I sign up for public healthcare in Italy?

You can apply for public healthcare at your local health office. You will need to provide the following documents:

• Proof of your identity.
• Your Italian tax code (codice fiscale).
• Your residence permit, or proof that you have applied to renew it.
• Documents that prove your family status [18].

It is important to remember that when you first arrive in Italy and are applying for your residence permit, you will need to have private health insurance [3].

What Should I Know When Moving to Italy with a Family?

What about schools and education in Italy?

If you are moving to Italy from the UK with your family, you should know that education is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16 [19].

Italy’s education system is structured into five main phases:

• Kindergarten
• Primary school
• Lower secondary school
• Upper secondary school or the vocational training system
• University

Most of this system is funded by the state, and education is open to foreign children. Public education is free, and financial help is available for school-related expenses [19].

What about having a baby in Italy?

Anyone enrolled in Italy’s public health system, known as the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), can receive free care for pregnancy and childbirth. You can access public maternity services through your local family planning centre, called a consultorio familiare [20]. This is an important detail for families living in Italy who might be planning to expand.

What do I need to do to bring my pets to Italy?

To bring your pet to Italy, it must have a microchip that meets ISO standards. It also needs a rabies vaccine given at least 21 days before your entry. You will also require an Animal Health Certificate (AHS) [21]. Dogs might have extra requirements, such as treatment for tapeworm. Your AHS will be valid for 10 days from the date it is issued [21].

What is a Financial Checklist for Moving to Italy?

Creating a detailed budget can make your move much more manageable and help you prepare for all the costs involved. Use this checklist to estimate your likely expenses before you start moving to Italy from the UK:

• Costs for your Italian visa application and processing fees.
• Your flight ticket to Italy.
• Shipping or international removal costs for your belongings.
• Expenses for temporary accommodation when you first arrive.
• Rental security deposit and any advance rent payments.
• Money for furniture, appliances, and essential household items.
• Private health insurance.
• Costs for transporting your pets.
• Expenses for local public transport.
• Fees for cancelling UK contracts, services, and subscriptions (e.g., mobile phone, internet, gym membership).
• Costs associated with currency exchange and international money transfers.
• Emergency savings for any unexpected expenses.

While you’re managing your finances and updating your services, remember that keeping your UK phone number can save you significant hassle. Many UK banks and other services require a UK number for login or verification, and changing these details can be a lengthy process. Consider exploring options for how to keep your UK number abroad with a specialized service to maintain this vital connection. Understanding solutions like eSIMs can also be helpful for staying connected; explore options like best eSIMs for digital nomads or learn the difference between an eSIM vs. physical SIM to keep your number.

What Are My Options for Retiring in Italy?

Italy is a truly wonderful place for retirement, offering a beautiful environment and a relaxed lifestyle. Let’s explore your main visa options for retiring in Italy.

What is the Italian elective residency visa?

The Italian elective residency visa (residenza elettiva) is specifically designed for retirees who have enough money to support themselves without needing to work in Italy. For this visa, your annual income must be at least €31,000 if you are single. If you are married, your combined annual income needs to be at least €38,000 [22]. You will also need to provide proof of permanent accommodation in Italy, health insurance, and show a clean criminal record [22].

Can I transfer my UK pension to Italy?

Yes, if you choose to retire in Italy, you can still claim your UK state pension there. You have the option to have your pension paid into a UK bank account or an Italian one. If paid into an Italian account, you will receive your pension in euros. You can also decide how often you get paid, with options ranging from every 4 to 13 weeks. For the most up-to-date information and specific guidance, you should contact the International Pension Centre [23].

Before moving to Italy from the UK, you will face many costs and tasks. These include things like property payments, Italian visa fees, and security deposits for renting. It is vital to plan carefully for all these financial steps. Make sure you understand the rules for post-Brexit moving Italy to avoid any unexpected issues. Also, consider solutions for keeping connected with your UK contacts, such as a service to maintain your existing UK phone number. This can save a lot of trouble with banking, online accounts, and staying in touch with family. Being well-prepared will help make your move to Italy as smooth as possible, allowing you to focus on enjoying your new life there.

Related reading

• Hong Kong Payments: Cash, Card, or Digital Wallet?