Expats in Italy Living the Life
Expats in Italy enjoy the scenic beauty, romantic atmospheres and a thriving economy. Becoming an expat in Italy is a difficult process, to say the least. Italy is a beautiful place that many wish to visit and reside. It is known for being one of the most romantic areas in the world and many people strive for that. However, becoming an expat Italy is a lot harder than one may think. If you are an American, Canadian, or Australian, you do not have the right to work or even live in Italy. However, there are a few ways around this. Applying for a visa is the easiest way, and enrolling in an Italian university, or having EU citizenship already are other ways to get into Italy.
There are many differences between most American, European and Italian ways. The main thing you should know is that Italians rarely know English, so learning at least the basics before moving are imperative. Italians also never line up for anything and seem to show up unannounced quite often. Therefore, don’t be surprised if a new friend decides to drop in randomly.
The cost of living in Italy ranges by the area. In a major city, you may be paying three hundred and ninety thousand euros for a small apartment, while you could find a large house for the same price in a more rural city. You will also have to pay for hot water, electricity, telephone, groceries, and garbage.
As for employment in Italy, you will want to be looking for a skilled job that pays well. Italy has Europe’s fourth largest economy, so wealth is booming. However, there is a vast difference between the rich and poor in Italy. The richer people are found in the North, while the poorest live in the South.
Education in Italy is offered to all young children for free until the age of fifteen, when enrollment taxes are usually paid. Italians take pride in their schooling and only have an average of three percent illiteracy rate of adults. Students must begin studying hard from the time they are young until the time they choose to end their schooling. Most students, after the age of fifteen, continue their schooling and go on to a higher level Education University to receive degrees.
Italy is equipped with a socialized medical system. The amount of medical help you receive depends on the area you live in, ranging from wonderful to terrible. Once you are settled in Italy, you will need to file for your health card, and pay around four hundred euros a year plus a percentage of your income. You will be able to visit doctors and hospitals immediately after receiving your card, unless you need surgery; then you will have to wait for an open spot.
Remember, if you are to use the radio or a television set, you will need to pay what is known as the “Canone RAI”, or a television tax. Usually it is one hundred and six euros that must be paid by the thirty-first of January. It may seem like a lot, but it is the lowest taxation in all of Europe.
Read more details about Move to Italy and Work in Italy.
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