Living in Calabria - some key questions answered

Can you become an Italian resident?

As an EU citizen you will be able to reside in Italy for as long as you wish. You will need a Codice Fiscale, the Italian equivalent of a national Insurance or social security number and if you want to work in Italy you will need a Carta di Soggornio. As part of our all inclusive service, we will assist you fully in acquiring this documentation as necessary.

Can pensions and benefits still be received?

Yes. Your retirement pension and other benefits can be paid directly into your bank account at home or in Italy. More information is available from the relevant government departments and we can help and advise you based on your personal circumstances.

Is it possible to work in Italy?

Anyone from the UK who becomes resident in Italy and has obtained a Tax and Social security number has the right to work there. UK nationals are entitled to the same pay, working conditions, vocational training, social security and trade union rights as Italian citizens.

How can a job vacancy be found?

Much the same as in the UK it is a good idea to start with the Local Calabrian press and also the Italian national newspapers. You can also apply to international recruitment agencies acting for Italian companies and you'll find plenty of websites with vacancies. If you need help let us know and we'll point you in the right direction.

What is driving in Italy like?

Generally it should only take a few days to become familiar with driving on the right. Many of the road signs are the same and in our experience, people adapt very quickly. The roads in Calabria are well maintained and probably much less congested than you are used to in the UK. The motorway system is excellent and new roads are being constructed.

How good is the healthcare?

The Italian national health system offers low-cost health care of a good standard with well trained doctors and medical staff.

If you are over UK retirement age you are entitled to receive free medical care in any EU country in which you live on the same basis as any local person and so are your dependants.

If you are working, hold a residence permit and are registered with local health authority you will also be covered by the local system. You will not automatically be covered if you are not working.

If you do not intend to live in your property but use it as a holiday home, you are entitled to emergency treatment under the EU arrangements if you hold form E111 when you travel. It is strongly advisable to take out a multi-visit or annual travel insurance policy usually providing cover above emergency level.

Many people will take out a health insurance policy, often quite cheaply to cover aspects of healthcare that are not covered by the local system, according to their circumstances.

Whatever your circumstances, you are strongly advised to fully check out the healthcare you are entitled to and make the necessary arrangements to cover any shortfall. We can assist you with this if required.