No one really talks about this until it happens to you. You wake up sick in Italy and suddenly everything feels heavier. New system. New language. New rules. And a lot of what you think you know about healthcare no longer applies.

In this episode, Samantha records in real time, still in pajamas and actively sick, to walk you through what actually happens when you get sick in Italy. Not the official version. Not the perfect government website version. The real life, boots on the ground experience.

This is a must listen if you already live in Italy, are planning a move, or spend extended time here and quietly wonder what you would do if you got sick. Where do you go first. Who do you call. Do you need insurance. Can the pharmacy really help. And how do you explain what is wrong when your brain is foggy and Italian is not your first language.

You will learn how the Italian healthcare system works in practice, why the pharmacy is often your first stop, when to see a doctor, when to avoid the emergency room, and how to stay calm when everything feels unfamiliar. Samantha also shares what it is like dealing with COVID in Italy right now and why the approach here feels very different than what many people remember from past years.

The goal of this episode is simple. To help you feel calmer, more prepared, and less afraid of the what ifs. Getting sick abroad does not mean you are alone. It just means the system works differently.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

How healthcare in Italy actually works at a high level

Why the pharmacy is your first line of care and how pharmacists help diagnose and treat symptoms

Which common medications in Italy match what you may know from home

When to see a doctor and the difference between public and private care

How much private doctor visits typically cost and how fast you can be seen

How emergency rooms work in Italy and when to go to the pronto soccorso

What COVID looks like in Italy right now and how cases are managed

How to handle language barriers when you are sick and stressed

Why rest is taken very seriously in Italy and how that mindset affects recovery

Who This Episode Is For

People already living in Italy

Anyone planning a move to Italy

Long term visitors or digital nomads

Anyone nervous about healthcare abroad

Anyone who wants to feel prepared before something goes wrong

Listener Questions Mentioned in This Episode

Is it better to rent first or buy right away when moving to Italy

How do you know if a small town is livable year round and not just great for vacations

What is the one thing people should have figured out before moving to Italy to make the transition smoother

If this episode helped you, save it for later, share it with someone planning a move, or send it to a friend who worries about healthcare abroad. And if you are listening while sick, this is your reminder to slow down, rest, and trust that you are not missing anything.

New episodes every week.

www.smartmoveitaly.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Planning a move to Italy with your spouse or children can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to visas. One of the biggest mistakes families make is assuming Italy offers an automatic family visa or that loved ones can simply arrive together without careful planning.

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson walks you through how family visas in Italy actually work, why so many families get delayed or separated, and what you need to know before you make a single move.

Italy’s family visa system is not intuitive. Timing, eligibility, and sequence matter more than most people realize. Misunderstanding just one step can trigger long delays, denials, or years-long waiting periods.

If your move to Italy includes a spouse, children, or dependents, this episode is essential listening.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

• How family visas in Italy really work and why they are not standalone visas

• The difference between family reunification visas and family visas for spouses of Italian or EU citizens

• Who qualifies as a dependent under Italian immigration law and who does not

• Why adult children and parents are rarely approved without proven medical dependency

• The exact order required for family reunification applications

• What a Nulla Osta is and when it is required

• Why the Suitability Certificate is critical and often overlooked

• How entering Italy too early can trigger a two year family reunification delay

• Why showing up without a visa no longer works in Italy

• When a family visa may not be the best option for your situation

Who This Episode Is For

• Families planning to move to Italy together

• Couples where only one spouse qualifies for a visa

• Parents relocating to Italy with minor children

• Spouses of Digital Nomad, Investor, Work, or Student visa holders

• Spouses of Italian or European Union citizens

• Anyone confused about family visas, dependency rules, or timing

Key Topics Covered

• Family visa Italy explained

• Family reunification visa Italy

• Spouse visa Italy

• Moving to Italy with children

• Italian visas for families

• Nulla Osta for family reunification

• Suitability Certificate Italy

• Permesso di soggiorno for family members

• EU spouse visa Italy

• Italian immigration rules for dependents

Listener Questions Answered

• Is it too early to start planning visa timing if we are moving to Italy in a year

• Does Italy care if only one spouse qualifies for a visa

• Is it normal to feel overwhelmed trying to coordinate visas, school, healthcare, and residency

Important Takeaway

Family visas in Italy are never automatic. But they are absolutely manageable when you understand the rules, respect the required sequence, and plan ahead.

Most family visa problems are not caused by bad luck. They are caused by assumptions.

This episode gives you clarity so you can protect your ability to arrive in Italy together and start your new life without unnecessary stress or separation.

Listen to the full episode to avoid the most common and preventable family visa mistakes.

Have a Question for a Future Episode

Send Samantha Your Question

If you have a question about visas, moving to Italy, or starting a new life abroad, you can leave a voicemail using the link in the show notes. Your question may be featured in a future episode.

Ciao for now, and see you next week on A New Life in Italy.

Visit Smart Move Italy

Get the Smart Move Blueprint

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

How much does it really cost to move to Italy?

In this episode, we break down the real cost of moving to Italy so you can understand what to expect financially and emotionally before making a big decision. Not the Instagram version. Not extreme worst case scenarios you find online. Real numbers, real planning, and the real life behind the move.

In the first episode of Season 4 of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson walks you through the true costs of relocating to Italy, including one time moving expenses, ongoing monthly living costs, visa and immigration fees, housing setup, and the hidden cost offsets many people overlook. We also talk honestly about the financial and emotional cost of staying where you are.

This episode is not about convincing you to move to Italy or pushing you toward a timeline. It’s about replacing fear and overwhelm with clarity, so you can decide if moving to Italy makes sense for your life, your finances, and your future.

If you’ve been dreaming about Italy but feeling stuck in the planning phase, this episode will help you see the full picture and take your next step with confidence.

Links and Resources

Download the companion workbook for this episode to walk through the numbers calmly and clearly at your own pace.

You’re not making decisions today. You’re gathering information so you can move forward with confidence when the time is right.

Visit Smart Move Italy

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

This season finale is a look back at the questions that mattered most. The ones you saved, shared, and replayed because they helped you make smarter decisions about moving to Italy.

In this episode, I revisit our most popular topics from the true cost of living in Italy and whether €2,000 a month is realistic, to buying property, renovation surprises, investor visa rules, document apostilles, and what foreigners really need to know before making a move.

It is also a thank you. Your messages, voice notes, and stories shape this show, and being part of your journey to Italy is something I am truly grateful for.

I also share a sneak peek of season four, launching January 14, 2026, where we go deeper into real life in Italy with more behind the scenes conversations, honest debates, and updates from people actively navigating their move.

Save the parts that speak to you, share this episode with someone who dreams of Italy, and stay connected with me on Instagram or through our newsletter.

Italy is waiting for you.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really happening in Italy’s rental market right now — the good, the bad, and the red flags you need to know before you commit to a property.

More people are searching for rentals from outside Italy than ever before, and with that has come a noticeable rise in scams, misleading listings, and contracts that can’t support residency. While there are absolutely excellent properties, owners, and agencies out there, there are also situations where things aren’t what they seem. My goal in this episode is to help you understand the current landscape so you can rent safely and confidently.

I walk through the most common issues I’m seeing: listings that look legitimate but don’t exist, owners who aren’t legally authorized to rent, properties that can’t be used for residency, and contracts that fall outside the protections of Italian law. I also explain why certain contract types — like transitorio, 3+2, and 4+4 — offer real legal security, and why anything outside of those structures can put you at risk.

I share examples of what’s going wrong for people right now, especially renters searching from abroad who are relying on photos alone, skipping contract registration, or trusting AI tools to review legal documents. These are simple mistakes, but they’re costing people money, time, and in some cases, their ability to secure residency.

My goal isn’t to scare you (safe, legal rentals do exist), but to make sure you understand how the market is shifting and what that means for you. With the right steps, you can protect your money, your residency process, and your peace of mind.

I also answer listener questions on suitability certificates, converting tourist contracts to long-term leases, and whether short-term rentals can be used for residency.

If you’re planning to rent in Italy next year, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need to do it the right way.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m diving straight into a topic I know so many of you are curious about. Opening a business in Italy. Living here. Working here. Figuring out how to blend the life you want with the work you love. This one comes up in my inbox almost every single day, so let’s break it all down together.

I start by clearing up one of the biggest misconceptions. Yes, almost anyone can open a business in Italy. Truly. But if you actually want to live here and work in that business, that’s where visas come into play. There’s a big difference between forming a company on paper and being legally allowed to work inside it. I walk you through that distinction in a really simple way.

From there, I get into the fun part. The types of businesses people just like you are already running here. Everything from travel planning and photography to online consulting, content creation, digital nomad businesses, even innovative startups. And honestly, the best ones are usually a blend of your past experience and the life you want to build in Italy. When those two pieces come together, magic happens.

I also talk about the practical side of things. What it looks like to run a business in Italy versus running one from abroad. We go over the basics like legal structures, VAT numbers, tax regimes, the difference between a sole proprietorship and an SRL, and what you actually need to get set up. By the end, you’ll understand the moving pieces without feeling overwhelmed.

And you know me. I can never talk about Italian business life without mentioning the people you'll need in your corner. A good commercialista is gold. A notary who explains things clearly is a lifesaver. Having local support truly makes the entire process smoother and a lot less stressful.

A big part of the episode is also dedicated to visas. I walk you through the Digital Nomad Visa, the Investor Visa, and a few other pathways so you know which options might actually fit your life and your goals. Spoiler. There are more possibilities than most people think.

Toward the end, we get into the emotional side of this journey. Because starting over in Italy is not just a logistical decision. It’s a heart decision. And you absolutely do not have to choose between living the life you’ve been dreaming about and building a meaningful career. You get to have both.

And of course, I wrap up by answering your listener questions. Everything from Digital Nomad Visa confusion to whether there’s ever a perfect time to move to Italy to how to build a social circle when you’re brand new here.

So if you’ve been craving clarity around working or starting a business in Italy, this episode is for you. Let’s get into it and help you take that dream one step closer to reality.

Resources:

Smart Move Italy

Innovative Start Up Visa for Italy

Visa Guidebook

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I, Samantha Wilson, explain why a visa is much more than just an entry ticket—it’s your first step toward long-term residency, EU rights, and even Italian citizenship.

I start by breaking down the role of a visa: it gives you official permission to enter Italy for purposes like retirement, work, study, or family reunification. But a visa is just the first step. Once you arrive, you apply for a permesso di soggiorno (permit to stay), which allows you to legally remain in Italy. After that, you can register your residenza (residency), which is necessary for accessing benefits like healthcare, banking, and other local services.

From there, I outline the main paths toward citizenship. Marriage to an Italian citizen can shorten the timeline to as little as two years of residency. For others, changes in the law now allow certain residents with Italian ancestors (either a parent or grandparent) to apply for citizenship after just two years, rather than three.

I also cover the five-year milestone, when you can apply for an EU long-term residence permit, giving you rights similar to Italian citizens, including healthcare and work across Europe.

Finally, I discuss the long-term path to full Italian citizenship after ten years of continuous residency, including the requirements for language, taxes, and documentation. While it’s a lengthy process, it’s achievable for anyone committed to living in Italy.

Throughout the episode, I show how different visa types can be used strategically to move from temporary permission to established life in Italy. I also answer listener questions about working remotely on a tourist visa, the importance of learning Italian, and how buying property can impact your visa and residency status.

Listen in to learn how your visa can open the door to stability, community, and the life you’ve been dreaming of in Italy.

Resources:

Download the Visa Guidebook

Rate, Review, & Follow

If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.

Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email! 

Download the Smart Move Italy App available in iOS and Android.

Until next time! 

Ci vediamo!

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson explores one of the biggest questions for anyone thinking about a move to Italy: Is now a smart time financially? With global economic and political uncertainty, it’s normal to hesitate before making such a big life change. But as Samantha explains, the timing might actually be better than ever for relocating—whether for retirement, remote work, or property investment.

She highlights four key reasons why moving to Italy isn’t just a dream—it can be a smart financial move. First, the tax incentives for new residents are hard to beat. Italy offers some of the best breaks in Europe, including a flat 7% tax for retirees with foreign pensions, 5% for self-employed individuals earning up to €85,000, and even a flat €200,000 tax option for high earners—making Italy feel like a mini tax haven for newcomers.

Next, the cost of living in Italy is considerably lower than in major cities like London, New York, or Toronto. From affordable housing to groceries and dining out, euros go further here, offering a higher quality of life without compromise.

The property market is another big draw. Prices have been low for years, but there are still incredible opportunities to buy beautiful homes at a fraction of what they cost in other European countries. Acting now is key, as more international buyers are entering the market.

Finally, new visa options make it easier than ever to relocate. With pathways for retirees, remote workers, and investors, moving to Italy is far less daunting than it used to be.

Samantha also answers listener questions on practical topics like converting a UK driver’s license and investor visa requirements.

If you’ve been thinking about making the move, this episode lays out the financial advantages and shows why Italy could be one of the smartest decisions you ever make.

Related Recommendations:

• GC Partners – for currency exchange and financial transfers.
• Italian Commercialista – schedule a consult to start assessing your Italian taxes.
• Smart Move Italy – explore our website for resources and guidance on making your move.

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens after you get your Elective Residency Visa. Everyone celebrates when that visa finally arrives in their passport — and rightfully so. It’s a huge accomplishment. But here’s the thing most people don’t realize: getting the visa is just the beginning. The real adventure (and sometimes, the real frustration) starts once you land in Italy.

I talk about that mix of excitement and nerves when you first arrive, ready to start your new Italian life, and then — boom — you’re faced with your first big task: applying for your permesso di soggiorno, the permit of stay. You’ve got just eight calendar days to get that process started, and it’s not exactly straightforward. I walk you through what to do, where to go, what forms to fill out, and how to avoid the common mistakes that slow people down.

I also share some of my favorite insider tips, like why you’ll definitely want an Italian SIM card before you start any of this, and why you should keep a copy of absolutely everything. Then there’s the waiting — because once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll likely be in bureaucratic limbo for a while. I explain what that means for travel, residency registration, and access to everyday services while you wait for your appointment at the Questura.

When that appointment finally arrives, I prepare you for what to expect — the fingerprinting, the long lines, and the follow-up steps that lead to getting your actual permit card. Patience is key here, and I share a few stories (and lessons learned) from clients who’ve been through it.

After you’ve got your permesso di soggiorno, the next step is registering your residency at your local comune. This is what officially makes you a resident of Italy and allows you to do things like access healthcare and open a bank account. I go over what documents you’ll need and what might happen if the local police do a home visit to verify your address.

Finally, we dive into Italy’s public healthcare system — how to enroll, what it costs, and how to choose your family doctor. This is one of those moments where it really starts to feel real: you’re not just visiting Italy anymore, you’re living here.

Throughout the episode, I share real stories and practical advice from people who’ve walked this same path — the mistakes, the surprises, and the wins. My goal is to help you feel prepared, supported, and a little more patient with the process.

So join me for this episode of A New Life in Italy as we explore what truly happens after you get your visa — and how to make sure your first year in Italy goes as smoothly as possible.

Resources:

Smart Move Italy Residency Assistance

Rate, Review, & Follow

If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.

Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email! 

Download the Smart Move Italy App available in iOS and Android.

Until next time! 

Ci vediamo!

Mentioned in this episode:

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Before you even start a visa application for Italy, it’s important to know what to look out for. This episode explores the often-overlooked complexities of choosing the right visa and how to avoid frustration, delays, or unexpected roadblocks, with the help of Host Samantha Wilson.

Many visa challenges arise long before a visit to the consulate. They often stem from selecting the wrong visa based on incomplete information or unrealistic expectations. The episode highlights four major red flags that indicate a visa choice may not be the right fit, along with actionable steps to course-correct.

Elective Residency Visa Misconceptions: One common pitfall is assuming you can keep a remote job while on the Elective Residency Visa (ERV). Designed for those living off passive income, this visa doesn’t allow active employment. Alternatives like the Digital Nomad Visa or the Investor Visa may be better options for those who want to work while living in Italy.

Family Visa Confusion: A visa doesn’t automatically cover spouses or children. Each family member may need to apply independently, depending on the visa type. Guidance is provided on planning a family visa strategy to avoid delays, covering options like the Digital Nomad Visa and Student Visa.

Student Visa Realities: The student visa isn’t a casual way to live in Italy while learning the language. Consulates expect enrollment in full-time programs, complete with documentation and financial proof. Using a student visa to bypass these requirements can create serious complications.

Investor Visa Misunderstandings: Investing in property or funds alone doesn’t qualify for the Investor Visa, which focuses on economic investment in Italian companies or government bonds. Advice is shared on ensuring investments meet criteria and navigating the process with professional support.

To help assess visa options, Samantha introduces her "Visa Fit Test"—a series of five questions to evaluate whether a current plan aligns with personal circumstances, including income, timelines, family, housing, and tax considerations.

Listener questions are also addressed, covering rental costs, mid-term housing options, and the evolving landscape of Italian expat policies. The importance of acting promptly is emphasized, as visa requirements can change quickly.

Tune in next week for more insights and tips to help make the dream of living in Italy a reality. Ciao for now!

Free Resources & Links

• Digital Nomad Visa Quiz (best way to begin)
• Elective Residency Visa Quiz (best way to begin)
• 15-Minute Visa Eligibility Call
• Investor Visa Discovery Call
• Sentire Media

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link