Moving to Italy from the USA: the paperwork checklist

The elective residence visa suits families and retirees who can support themselves from stable income — pensions, investments, rental — without working in Italy.

You apply at the Italian consulate serving your state before you move. The file covers proof of income, accommodation in Italy, and your health insurance certificate.

Italy requires health insurance valid in Italy and across the Schengen area, with a minimum of €30,000 and cover for hospitalisation and repatriation — see the rule below.

Travel insurance is refused. Year one commonly requires zero deductible and whole-Schengen cover. Some consulates ask for a validity letter confirming the policy meets the rule.

Bring the full file to your appointment: passport, visa forms, income and accommodation proof, and the insurance certificate that states the €30,000 cover.

The consulate keeps discretion over every application. A compliant certificate removes a common reason for refusal — it does not guarantee approval.

Soon after arriving, you start the permesso di soggiorno — your residence permit — through the post office kit, then an appointment at the questura.

Keep your private cover running. It carries you until you register with the Italian health system (SSN), and many families keep private cover alongside it.