Italy is a splendid country that attracts each years millions of tourist and lots of expats. It has one of the strongest economies in the world and in Europe as well, lots of beautiful places and items kept in museums worth seeing which are just a few of the things which make this country so attractive. Whether you are moving to Italy for a few months, a year or permanently, it’s important to know some basic details about the country like weather, economics, etc. and of course some tips on the move itself. Here is how to move to Italy from the US.
Make a Plan Before Moving
Here are a few things to prepare before moving to Italy as an American.
- Finances. Check out the housing prices in the area you are interested in, the crime rate, the unemployment rate and what the different neighborhoods offer in terms of housing, infrastructure and safety & security. It is important to consider how much money you will need for your new home and during the time until you get a job. The moving budget will be estimated by the Italian moving company you hire.
- Search for a property. Once you have a set date for the move, explore what properties are available depending on your needs and finances.
- Get ready for the climate change. Italy is one of the countries with best climates in Europe although there could be considerable differences in some areas. Naturally, the winter in the Alps could be cold and snowy, the Po Valley could get rainy and cold, too. You can find the best weather by the coast, and of course the farther down you go, the higher the temperatures.
Italy is a country of history and architectural beauty, which you will surely become fond of after moving.
- Research the country. Use the tips in this guide as a starting point – you really need to know well the country you are going to in order to minimize the stress that comes from the clash with a new culture, a reaction that is natural for everyone who relocate to a different country. If you can, visit Italy, spend some time in the area which interests you and take a closer look what’s it like. You can use the opportunity to check out some properties for sale or rent.
- Organize the travel. Book a plane for you, and your family, if you are not traveling alone. The earlier you buy your ticket, the cheaper it will be – you know how it is with the price of flight tickets.
- Understand that you will be away from home for a particular period of time, depending on the time of your move, or permanently. Are you ready to make this step? Throw a moving party to say goodbye to your family and friends. Use the opportunity to give away things you won’t be keeping.
- Look for the positives. And they are so quick to spot! Besides the interesting history which could be seen all around Italy and in its museums, get ready for some very delicious food – Italian ice-cream, pizza, pasta and coffee are very popular with their incredible taste.
Moving to Italy Checklist
- Don’t pack everything when moving to Italy from America – it will be more expensive for you to ship all items that you have rather than downsize, get rid of broken and worn out things and donate those belongings of yours which you won’t use/ don’t want to take.
Many people move to Italy for the wonderful climate.
- Visas. If you are moving for up to 90 days, you won’t need a visa. If you are moving to Italy permanently or for a longer time than 90 days, you can select between a variety of visas. The Bureau of Consular Affairs at the U.S. Department of State offers up to date detailed information on all requirements related to entering Italy and relocating there.
- Economy. Italy has one of the strongest economies in Europe and in the world, unemployment is low and there are lots of job offers in different sectors of the economy. A factor limiting your choice would be not knowing the language so it would be best for you if you can start learning it even before the move.
- Pets. If you have pets you wish to export from the USA to Italy, the website of the United States Diplomatic Mission to Italy explains what you need to know.
- Finding Italian relocation services. Looking for quality movers is not as difficult as you may think. Remember, though, to compare the quotes that you get, the services included and the attitude and helpfulness of the moving company rep. Every move will be easier if assisted by professional movers, and hiring them for a foreign country move is a must.
You can easily move to Italy from the US if you try and follow our advice. Italy is a great country to visit and work in, but without preparation, your new start there will be tough. Moving to Italy as an American will be smoother with this guide. If you found useful information in this article, please share it.
When ever you complete a removal to another country you must ensure everything is export wrapped so when it is being transported it decreases the risk of any damage.
Italy is so beautiful but I feel like moving there might be more of a headache then it’s worth. Thank you for this accurate instruction of what it really takes to move to Europe.