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

You don’t have to move to Italy to start living like an Italian.

In today’s episode of A New Life in Italy podcast, I’m joined by Amy Lamparelli, travel planner and founder of Away to Italy. Amy has created a step-by-step approach to planning a trip that’s just right for you—one that also embraces the art of slow travel.

This topic resonates with countless people, and struggling to put slow travel into practice is completely understandable.

For many, Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and of course you want to see all the famous sights. But whether you’re visiting once, returning many times, or even relocating here, there’s a way to balance must-see places with those priceless, everyday, authentic Italian moments.

Amy explains it beautifully and brings over 30 years of experience in Italy. And as you’ll hear in this episode, she even purchased a home in Lucca—sight unseen—after taking a virtual property tour during the pandemic. That’s how deep her love for Italy runs, and it’s the same feeling that brought Away to Italy to life.

By the end, you’ll be inspired to rethink your travel strategies and consider how to bring the principles of slow travel into your own Italian adventures. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another, this episode is packed with insights to help you connect more deeply with Italy and the Italian culture.

Join us as we explore the art of slow travel and discover how to truly feel Italy, rather than just see it. Don’t forget to check out Amy’s resources via the links below for more tips and inspo on planning your own authentic Italian journey. And stay tuned until the end for answers to listener questions!

Alla prossima,

Samantha

Resources

• Away to Italy Website
• Away to Italy Instagram
• Discover Your Italy Travel Style Quiz
• Italy Unrushed Ebook

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Ciao a tutti! In this episode of A New Life in Italy, we’re delving into a crucial topic that often causes hesitation for those dreaming of moving to Italy: finances. From money management to taxes, investments, and retirement planning, these elements can significantly influence your decision to relocate.

I am joined by Alex Ingrim, co-founder and president of Liberty Atlantic Advisors, a cross-border financial planning firm that specializes in helping Americans navigate the complexities of managing their wealth while living abroad. With his extensive experience, Alex provides invaluable insights into avoiding double taxation, managing investments, and planning for retirement in Italy.

Throughout our conversation, we explore the common fears that many potential expats face, such as the possibility of being taxed twice and concerns about whether their retirement savings will last. Alex emphasizes the importance of proactive financial planning, advising listeners to start preparing at least two years before their move. He explains the intricacies of the U.S. tax system, which operates on a citizenship-based taxation model, and how this impacts Americans living in Italy.

This episode speaks directly to Americans, but it also is good for Canadians, British, Aussies, and anyone else out there because double taxation treaties apply to all of us. 

We discuss the significance of understanding where and how taxes apply to different types of income, including pensions and retirement accounts. Alex highlights the need for Americans to be aware of the differences in tax rates between the U.S. and Italy, particularly for retirees. He also addresses the common misconception that moving to Italy means you can manage your investments in the same way as in the U.S., pointing out the unique challenges posed by Italian tax laws.

In addition to financial planning, we touch on the emotional aspects of moving abroad, especially for families. Alex shares his personal experience of relocating from Alaska to Florence with his wife and children, illustrating how children often adapt more easily than adults.

As we wrap up, I encourage listeners to take action by connecting with financial professionals who understand both U.S. and Italian tax systems. Alex offers resources for those looking to get started on their financial planning journey, including free consultations.

This episode serves as a reminder that moving to Italy is not just a lifestyle choice; it’s a financial one as well. I hope you find the insights shared in this episode helpful as you consider your own Italian adventure. Don't forget to check the notes below for links to get started.

Resources

• www.libertyatlantic.com
• LinkedIn: Liberty Atlantic Advisors
• Smart Move Italy

Mentioned in this episode:

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Ciao, friend—and welcome back.

This week’s episode is a special one, because it follows our biggest event of the year—the Move to Italy Bootcamp. Thousands of you joined me, and let me tell you... reading your stories, your fears, your dreams—it reminded me of something I say all the time: moving to Italy isn’t just about documents and checklists. It’s about creating a life.

And if there’s one place where life in Italy truly lives, it’s the kitchen.

So in this episode, I want to explore how learning to cook—like a real Italian, with your hands, your heart, and no measuring cups—can actually help you feel more connected to Italy, whether you’re already here or just starting your journey from afar.

I’m joined by Teo, co-founder of Cook with Anana, a platform I absolutely adore. He and his partner Blake have been crisscrossing Italy, cooking with real Italian grandmothers—nonne—capturing their stories and their recipes before they disappear. We’re talking about dishes that haven’t changed in 80 years, made in tiny kitchens with no gadgets or gadgets or Instagram filters. Just tradition, heart, and maybe a little flour on your shirt.

Teo and I talk about where this idea came from, how food connects us to the past, and why even if you’ve never made pasta from scratch in your life, you can still learn to cook like a nonna.

And here’s the best part—if you’re a member of A New Life in Italy, you now get 3 free months inside Cook with Anana. Because starting a new life in Italy? It begins with the stories we carry and the food we share.

This episode is soulful, funny, and full of flavor. Let’s dig in.

Resources:

A New Life in Italy 2025 Join Now! (doors close on September 17, 2025)

Cook with Anana

Mentioned in this episode:

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m back with something really exciting — it’s Bootcamp season! Every year around this time, my inbox fills up with questions from people just like you who are dreaming about making the move to Italy. So I thought, why not answer some of the biggest ones right here on the podcast?

I’m diving into all the essentials you need to know if Italy is on your horizon. Things like visas (yes, including the tricky elective residency visa for retirees), what kind of income you really need to show, how healthcare works once you’re here, and the age-old question… should you rent first or go all in and buy?

We’ll also talk about what happens if you’re married to an EU citizen, the rules around driving in Italy (spoiler: you’ll need that international driver’s permit), and what it actually takes to be able to work legally once you arrive. I’ll even touch a little on the political climate, because I know that’s on some of your minds, but mostly to remind you to stay focused on your own move and your own new life.

Most importantly, this episode is your warm-up for the Move to Italy Bootcamp happening September 9th, 10th, and 11th, 2025. It’s three days of clarity, guidance, and real answers so you can stop wondering if this dream is possible and actually start planning it.

So, tune in, take notes, and then grab your spot at Bootcamp. I promise you, it’s the best first step you can take toward making Italy your home.

Grab Your Spot in the Bootcamp 2025!!

Ciao for now,

Samantha

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Ciao a tutti and welcome back to A New Life in Italy podcast! With today’s special topic and guest, it’s only fair that we bring some Italian words (parole) into the mix.

Have you ever wondered how to combine travel with language learning? And have you fallen for the myth that there’s an age limit when it comes to effective language learning? Well, keep reading, because in just a moment, you’ll not only gain insight, but also encouragement.

After all, learning Italian isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about making connections!

To help us navigate this discussion, Michele from The Intrepid Guide (a travel and language expert) joins us. Michele shares her insights on how to combine travel with language learning, unlocking memorable, authentic experiences. We discuss the importance of learning even basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience in Italy, making you feel more integrated into the community (comunità). 

Michele also shares her personal story, highlighting her Italian heritage and her journey to learn the language after the passing of her grandfather. She emphasizes that it’s never too late to start learning, and many of her students, who are older adults, find joy (gioia) in the process. We explore practical tips for language learning, including focusing on the essential vocabulary that will be most useful during your travels (viaggi). 

If you’re finishing up the episode, Michele and I want to remind you that learning Italian is a journey, not a race. You’ll always find something new to learn, even years down the line. Small wins—like introducing yourself or ordering a coffee—can make a big difference in your experience in Italy. In order to explore Michele’s content and courses, we’ve linked them below. 

Make sure to stay tuned until the end for answers to three listener questions (domande) about renting in Florence, banking for property purchases, and planning for visa applications, providing practical advice for those considering a move to Italy. Join us for this special episode designed to help you embrace the Italian language and culture, making your time in Italy unforgettable—whether you’re here for a week or for good! 

Links mentioned in the episode:

🌐 Website: The Intrepid Guide | Intrepid Italian

📸 Instagram: Michele Frolla | Italian Teacher

🎥 Youtube: Intrepid Italian with Michele

📣 Move to Italy Bootcamp

📲 Smart Move Italy App

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 other 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! 

Until next time! 

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Ciao a tutti! Samantha here. I’m thrilled to announce the latest episode of A New Life in Italy podcast, which is dedicated to those of you who dream of calling Rome home or simply want to experience the city in a more authentic way.

Author of "Italy Made Easy", Doug Morris, joins today's episode, sharing his insight after spending a decade in the adored Eternal City.

We start by discussing the unique charm of Rome, where ancient history seamlessly intertwines with modern life. Doug shares what it truly means to wake up in Rome, from knowing your local barista to discovering hidden piazzas that most visitors overlook. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the city's rhythm, which is not always dictated by the clock but by the simple things in life, whether it's sipping cappuccini or listening to the sounds of bustling streets.

Tune in for his top neighborhood recommendations, favorite local eateries, tips for adapting to the Roman way of life, and more! There's nothing quite like seeing a famous city in a new light through the eyes of a local.

To close out the episode, I answered three new questions about renting in Italy, running an online business on a visa, and integrating into local communities without fluent Italian. Do you have questions? Send them our way via the contact form linked here.

👉 Links mentioned in the episode:

• Doug's guidebook: Rome Made Easy
• Our website: Smart Move Italy
• Move to Italy Bootcamp: Click to grab your spot!

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.

Ciao for now!

-Samantha

Mentioned in this episode:

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I sit down with Jaid, a fellow Canadian who traded life in Toronto for a fresh start in Bari just one year ago.

Jaid opens up about her solo trip to Puglia in 2023 that completely changed her path, leading her to take a leap of faith and move to Italy. She shares the highs and lows of that journey—culture shock in Palermo, the charm of Lecce and Monopoli, navigating Italian bureaucracy, and finding her place in a country where friendships often span decades.

We talk about what it’s really like to work in hospitality here compared to Canada, how the warmth and family-like atmosphere helped her settle in, and even how an unexpected connection at work turned into a romantic relationship.

Jaid’s story is full of practical advice and heartfelt inspiration for anyone considering a move abroad. She reminds us that while starting over isn’t always easy, believing in yourself and taking that first step can lead to a life richer and more authentic than you ever imagined.

Follow Jaid’s journey on Instagram at Jaid in the Life and get ready to feel inspired to create your own new life in Italy.

Resources:

Jaid in the Life

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

Hey everyone, it’s Samantha Wilson with a special breaking news episode of Your New Life in Italy.

On today’s show, I’m unpacking a landmark court ruling that could completely change how families apply for one of Italy’s most challenging visas—the Elective Residency Visa (ERV).

Here’s the big news: For years, consulates (especially in the US and UK) have insisted that each adult applying under the ERV prove their own independent passive income of over €31,000 per year. So if you were a couple? That meant €62,000 total—and from separate sources.

But a recent ruling by the Regional Administrative Court in Lazio just struck that down. A British couple who were denied their visa in 2022 because they applied jointly—using shared income—just won their case. And the implications are huge.

In this episode, I explain:

• What the court actually said (and why it matters)
• The real income thresholds families now need to meet
• What this means for couples who applied before—and got denied
• What we still don’t know (yet) about how this applies if one spouse has no income
• Why this is about more than money—it’s about how Italy defines family

If you’ve been told “no” before because your income was shared, or you were applying as a couple—this could be your chance to reapply, with the law now on your side.

📎 I’ve linked the full court ruling in the show notes for those who want to dig into the details.

Let’s be clear—this doesn’t mean everyone gets an automatic approval. But it does mean the consulates can’t make up rules that aren’t supported by Italian law. And that’s a big win.

Ciao for now!

Samantha

Resources:

Download the Ruling

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:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Ciao friends — it’s Samantha, and in this episode of A New Life in Italy, we’re talking about something that no one tells you enough about when buying property in Italy: how to actually move your money… without losing your mind, your deal, or your savings.

You’ve probably been dreaming about that hilltop farmhouse or beachy little pied-à-terre. You find the one, make the offer… and boom. Things get real. Fast.

But here’s the thing: Italy isn’t going to sit around and wait while your bank tries to figure out how to send euros across the ocean. If you don’t plan ahead, you could miss out entirely. I’ve seen it happen—more than once.

In this episode, I sit down with my go-to currency expert Rachel Canalis from GC Partners. She’s helped tons of our clients transfer big sums securely, quickly, and—bonus—usually with a way better exchange rate than their bank.

We share some real-life stories, including one (ouch) where a couple lost their dream home in Umbria because their money didn’t land in time. Spoiler: their bank caused all the drama, and the backup buyer got the house.

Rachel and I talk about what to do instead—like opening a currency account early, locking in your exchange rate, and working with someone who actually knows the process inside and out. We also cover how to handle deposits if you don’t have an Italian bank account (hint: your notaio can help with that), and why compliance checks are no joke when sending large international transfers.

If you’re even thinking about buying property in Italy, this is the stuff that will save you time, stress, and possibly thousands of euros. I promise, it’s not just boring money talk—this is the behind-the-scenes stuff that makes or breaks your dream.

So grab your espresso, and let’s talk about how to avoid the currency traps and get those keys in your hand—with confidence.

Ciao for now! 🇮🇹✨

Resources

GC Partners Free Account

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:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link