Hey there! Welcome to Season 3 of A New Life in Italy! I’m Samantha Wilson, and I couldn’t be more excited to kick off this season with a topic that’s on so many of your minds: the Elective Residency Visa (ERV). Or, as some people like to call it, the "retirement visa." If moving to Italy is your dream but the whole visa process feels overwhelming, then this episode is absolutely for you.

Let’s break it all down together.

First, I walk you through exactly what the Elective Residency Visa is and who it’s designed for. Spoiler alert: it’s not for everyone. If you’re planning to work or start a business in Italy, this isn’t the visa for you. But if you’re retired or have passive income to support yourself, the ERV could be your golden ticket.

Then, I get into the three most important parts of a successful ERV application:

1. The Cover Letter: This is your chance to make a great first impression. I’ll show you how to balance emotions with facts—because let’s face it, just saying “I love Italy” isn’t enough. I even share a story about a couple who learned that the hard way and how we turned their application around.
2. Financial Requirements: This part tends to stress people out the most, so let’s simplify it. It’s not just about having a big bank account; it’s about proving consistent, reliable passive income. I’ll walk you through the minimum requirements and share an example of a client who hit a roadblock but ultimately succeeded.
3. Accommodations in Italy: Yep, you’ll need a long-term lease or proof of property ownership before you even apply for the visa. I share tips for navigating the Italian rental market, avoiding common pitfalls, and ensuring you’re ready to go.

Throughout the episode, I sprinkle in real-life examples and actionable advice to help you avoid the most common mistakes and feel confident about your application.

As we wrap up, I encourage you to think about your own Italian dream—what does it look like? Whether it’s sipping cappuccinos in a Tuscan villa or strolling through a quaint village in Puglia, this visa could be your first step toward making it happen.

Oh, and don’t forget to tune in next week when we dive into the Investor Visa—another exciting way to make your Italian dream a reality.

If you’re loving the podcast, be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode. And if you have questions about the ERV or anything else related to moving to Italy, come find me on Instagram—I’d love to hear from you!

Let’s make your Italian dream a reality—together. ❤️

Resources:

www.smartmoveitaly.com/ervassistance

www.numbeo.com

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!

Until next time!

Ci vediamo!

Mentioned in this...

Ciao Tutti! I can’t believe we’ve already reached the end of Season 2 of A New Life in Italy! It’s been such an incredible season filled with inspiring stories, helpful advice, and—my favorite part—your questions.

For this special finale, I’m tackling some of the most common and pressing questions you’ve sent in about moving to Italy. Whether you’re just starting to dream about life here or you’re already making plans, I’ve got answers that I think will help you take the next step toward your Italian adventure.

We start off with a question from Tina, who’s wondering about converting her North American driver’s license to an Italian one. I walk through the process (spoiler: it’s not as simple as swapping one license for another) and share tips on preparing for the Italian learner’s test—because yes, you may need to take it!

Then there’s David, who asks about closing costs when buying a home in Italy. I break down everything from transfer taxes to notary fees and give my best advice for budgeting—hint: plan for around 10% of the purchase price.

James wants to know where the most affordable and expensive places are in Italy. I dive into the big differences between northern and southern Italy and highlight some hidden gems, like Calabria and Puglia, where your money can stretch further.

Victoria, who’s already retired and has an Italian passport, asks about how unearned income is taxed in Italy. Taxes can be tricky here, so I explain the basics and recommend getting a professional to help with the details.

Next, George is curious about the cost of living in Italy—specifically, what might be more expensive than expected. I share my personal experiences, from affordable internet and mobile services to higher-than-expected utility costs and rent in certain areas.

Mai is dreaming of running a B&B in Italy and asks whether that qualifies her for a work visa. I break down the options and remind her that owning property doesn’t automatically mean you get a visa—there are extra steps involved.

Lisa asks about travel vaccinations, so I point her in the right direction for finding services in Italy and share tips on planning ahead before traveling or relocating.

Karen is curious about residency requirements—does she need to buy property to apply? I explain that renting is absolutely an option and go over the steps for getting residency, whether you own or rent.

I also tackle questions about prima casa tax benefits, long-term rentals, and even what it’s like to live in Italy on a modest income. Mary Rose, I’m looking at you—yes, it is totally possible to live comfortably here without breaking the bank!

Before I sign off, I just want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for tuning in this season. Your support, your questions, and your stories are what make this podcast so rewarding for me. And don’t worry—Season 3 is already in the works! I’ve got some exciting topics lined up, from visas and tax incentives to even more Q&A episodes.

So, if you’ve got questions you’d like me to answer, send them in! And don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with anyone who’s dreaming of Italy.

Grazie mille for being part of this journey with me. I can’t wait to see where Season 3 takes us. Until then—ciao for now!

www.smartmoveitaly.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website

Welcome to another episode of New Life in Italy! I'm Samantha Wilson, and today, we’re diving deep into the power of chasing big dreams—especially the dream of moving to Italy and building a meaningful life here.

In this episode, I sit down with Ashley Bartner, the co-founder of La Tavola Marche, an organic farm, inn, and cooking school tucked away in the stunning countryside of Le Marche. Ashley and her husband, Jason, took the plunge 17 years ago, leaving their fast-paced lives in New York to start fresh in rural Italy. They didn’t have all the answers—just a dream, a lot of courage, and a willingness to figure things out along the way.

Ashley opens up about what it was really like to make such a big move, from learning the ropes of farming and hosting guests to teaching cooking classes and navigating life in Italy. She gets honest about the challenges too—like dealing with unexpected power outages in the middle of a Thanksgiving dinner for their neighbors—and how those moments helped them grow.

One of my favorite parts of our chat is hearing Ashley talk about the mindset it takes to follow a dream, even when it doesn’t make sense to anyone else. Her story is such a great reminder that the only person who needs to believe in your dream is you. We also dig into the realities of running an agriturismo—the hard work, the surprises, and the moments that make it all worthwhile.

As we wrap up, I challenge you to think about your own dreams. What’s that one thing you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t taken the leap yet? Whether it’s moving to Italy, starting a new career, or stepping into something completely unknown, I hope this episode inspires you to take the first step.

And don’t forget—if you’re serious about making Italy your new home, check out all the resources waiting for you at SmartMoveItaly.com. I’ve got guides, tips, and expert advice to make your move easier.

Stick around until the end of the episode, too! I’ll be answering listener questions about energy ratings for properties, pet passports, and the process of applying for a Permesso di Soggiorno.

So grab your espresso (or a glass of wine!), and let’s get inspired together. This is your New Life in Italy. Let’s make it happen!

Resources:

La Tavola Marche

The Podcast From Italy

Smart Move Italy

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!

Until next time!

Ci vediamo!

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website...

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m tackling a topic that’s more relevant than ever: fake news and misleading information about moving to Italy. Let’s face it—when you’re navigating the overwhelming amount of advice online, it can be hard to know what’s true and what’s not. That’s why I’m here to help you separate fact from fiction, especially when it comes to something as life-changing as relocating to a new country.

We’ll start by looking at how misinformation creeps into our lives—not just in politics, but in health advice, travel tips, and, yes, all the details about moving to Italy. Acting on half-truths or sensationalized claims can lead to costly mistakes and big disappointments, and I don’t want that for you.

In this episode, I’ll break down some of the most common myths about moving to Italy:

• Tax Benefits for Expats: You’ve probably heard that Italy offers massive tax breaks for foreigners, but the reality is more nuanced. I share the story of a couple who got into serious trouble by not properly declaring their worldwide income, proving why it’s so important to understand tax obligations and work with a qualified professional.
• Visa Misconceptions: Think you can get an investor visa by buying property? Or that the elective residency visa is as straightforward as it sounds? I’ll debunk those myths and explain the truth behind these popular visa options.
• One Euro Homes: Those €1 homes everyone talks about? They’re real, but there’s way more to the story—like extensive renovations and strict timelines. I’ll help you see the full picture so you don’t get caught up in the hype.

I’ll also share tips to help you navigate the noise and find reliable information. Whether it’s checking sources, consulting professionals, or recognizing when something is too good to be true, these strategies will empower you to make smarter, more confident decisions about your move.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to avoid the traps of fake news and misinformation—and how to focus on the facts that will help make your Italian dream a reality. Tune in and let’s get started!

Resources:

Smart Move Italy

Long Term Rentals Citreon

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!

Until next time!

Ci vediamo!

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m diving into one of the most complex and, let’s face it, daunting aspects of the citizenship journey: claiming Italian citizenship through the court system. If you’ve traced your family roots back to Italy and are eager to secure your citizenship, you might have already run into obstacles like the infamous 1948 rule or endless wait times at your local consulate. The truth is, for many, the best path forward lies in navigating the Italian legal system—a process that can seem overwhelming but is often the most efficient way to achieve your dream.

I break down the two main reasons people take their citizenship cases to court: the 1948 rule and what’s known as the "no appointment" case. The 1948 rule applies if you have a female ancestor who couldn’t pass on her citizenship before January 1, 1948, due to outdated laws. If that’s your situation, applying through the consulate will almost always lead to rejection, leaving the court as your only option. The "no appointment" case, on the other hand, is for those stuck in limbo with wait times so long at their consulate that they’re forced to ask the courts to step in and take jurisdiction.

To help make sense of it all, I’m joined by Terry Wilson, our head citizenship expert. Terry breaks down the ins and outs of the court process, including the documents you’ll need and what to expect in terms of timelines—usually 18 months to two years. While it might sound intimidating, Terry explains how the court route is often faster and less frustrating than dealing with the consulate, especially if you’re applying with multiple family members and can share the costs.

We also dive into the many benefits of pursuing citizenship through the courts. You don’t need to appear in court yourself, you can include your entire family in one petition, and well-prepared cases typically have very favorable outcomes. Of course, there are challenges too—like dealing with naming discrepancies or gathering the right documents—which is why having a qualified Italian lawyer by your side is so important.

Before wrapping up, I share some practical tips for anyone considering the court route. We talk about the importance of hiring a specialized lawyer, budgeting realistically for the costs involved, and preparing for the bureaucracy that comes after you’ve won your case.

If you’re feeling stuck in your citizenship journey or just exploring your options, this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with confidence. Let’s demystify the court process together and get you one step closer to claiming your Italian citizenship.

Resources:

Italian Citizenship Help

Visa Guide Book

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!

Mentioned in this episode:

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, we dive into what it’s like to move to Italy as the spouse of an Italian citizen. We explore common questions, like how the process changes if your Italian spouse is already living in Italy versus if you’re moving together from abroad.

From the unique privileges and responsibilities that come with being married to an Italian citizen to the legal steps required for residency, we’ll walk you through what to expect. You’ll learn about the importance of organizing all essential documents before arriving, securing a place to live, and making sure your marriage is registered in the AIRE database. Once in Italy, we cover the steps for applying for a permesso di soggiorno (residency permit), so you can settle in with confidence.

We tackle practical advice on navigating Italy’s bureaucratic landscape, including the challenges you might face if marital status changes occur, like divorce or the loss of a spouse. Plus, we cover the pathway to Italian citizenship, including the latest language requirements and the added benefits that come with citizenship.

This episode also includes listener questions on topics like working while awaiting citizenship and adjusting to life in Italy. Whether you’re already married to an Italian citizen or thinking about it, this episode offers essential insights to support your journey to a new life in Italy.

Resources:

AIRE

Residency Lab

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website

Hey there! In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m diving into one of the biggest challenges of relocating to Italy: figuring out the visa maze. If you’re not an Italian or European citizen, choosing the right visa is absolutely key for living here longer than 90 days. I know it can feel overwhelming with so many visa types, each with its own rules, so I’m breaking it down by focusing on the three most popular options: the Elective Residency Visa, the Student Visa, and the Digital Nomad Visa.

Let’s start with the basics—what exactly is a visa, and why is it so important? Think of a visa as your entry ticket; it’s what lets you apply for a “Permesso di Soggiorno” or permit of stay, which you’ll need to actually live here long-term. Picking the right visa depends on your unique situation and goals, and I’m here to help you navigate that decision.

First up, we’ll talk about the Elective Residency Visa, sometimes known as the retirement visa. This one’s ideal if you have a stable, passive income and dream of retiring in Italy. I’ll walk you through the essentials, like needing a minimum net income of €32,000 per year per person, plus showing that you have a solid financial foundation and a place to stay before applying. I’ll also cover some common mistakes to watch out for, like not fully understanding the financial requirements or the importance of guaranteed income.

Then, we’ll dive into the Student Visa, which is fantastic for younger folks or anyone looking to study in Italy. I’ll explain what’s needed for this visa—everything from acceptance into a recognized school to proof of funds to support yourself during your studies. Plus, I’ll touch on some great perks, like the chance to work part-time and even potentially convert this visa to a work permit later.

Finally, we’ll look at the brand-new Digital Nomad Visa, which is perfect for remote workers who want to live in Italy without needing a local job. I’ll break down the requirements, including holding a degree or significant work experience and meeting a financial threshold of around €28,000 annually. This visa offers a lot of flexibility, letting you enjoy the Italian lifestyle while keeping your current job.

Throughout the episode, I’ll be sharing practical tips and insights to make the application process as smooth as possible. Preparation and a deep understanding of each visa type can make all the difference. As we wrap up, I encourage you to think carefully about your options, and remind you that SmartMoveItaly.com has resources to help with every step of your visa journey.

Resources:

Italian Visa Guidebook

Book a Consultation Call

Visit Smart Move Italy

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website

In this episode of "A New Life in Italy," I, Samantha Wilson, delve into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of moving to Italy: the necessity of securing a rental property before applying for a visa. Many aspiring expatriates find themselves caught off guard by this requirement, which can complicate their plans and create confusion.

I begin by outlining the types of long-term visas available in Italy, specifically the National D visa, which is valid for up to 365 days. I explain that proof of a residential address is a mandatory part of the visa application process, emphasizing that short-term accommodations like Airbnbs or hotels will not suffice. I highlight the most common visas that require a rental agreement, including the elective residency visa, student visa, digital nomad visa, and family reunification visa.

Next, I break down the different types of rental leases that can qualify for a visa application. I discuss the transitorio lease, which is a short-term option lasting between 1 to 18 months, and the more stable 4 plus 4 and 3 plus 2 leases, which offer longer-term commitments. I stress the importance of ensuring that the lease aligns with the visa requirements and the need for a legally registered contract.

Throughout the episode, I address the common challenges foreigners face when trying to secure a rental in Italy, such as language barriers, proving financial stability, and the upfront costs associated with renting. I provide practical advice on budgeting for these expenses and the importance of working with a rental agency or property finder to navigate the complexities of the Italian rental market.

I also share tips on timing your rental search to coincide with your visa application process, ensuring that you have a lease in place without incurring unnecessary costs before your arrival. Additionally, I advise listeners to check with their consulate regarding specific rental lease requirements, as these can vary.

To wrap up the episode, I answer listener questions about the cost of living in Italy, the challenges of living as a foreigner, and healthcare expenses. I encourage anyone considering a move to Italy to reach out for assistance, whether through my team at SmartMoveItaly.com or other resources, to help make their transition as smooth as possible.

Join me as we explore the ins and outs of securing a rental property in Italy, ensuring that you are well-prepared for your exciting new life in this beautiful country. Ciao for now!

Resources

Smart Move Italy Property Rental Search

Cost of Living Calculator

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

Sentire Media Website