One of the biggest hurdles facing anyone looking to relocate to Italy is finding housing. It’s not about knowing the right websites to look at (such as Idealista and immobiliare). And it’s not even about knowing where you want to relocate. Like most obstacles when trying to get something done in Italy, it’s all about who you know.
If you don’t have a network of family, friends, or colleagues already established in Italy, you’re effectively starting at zero. Even if you’re able to locate housing online that suits your needs, you’re not likely to get a response without speaking Italian fluently, and being available in person or over the phone– with an Italian phone number of course.
When you’re outside of Italy getting an Italian realtor, or individual landlord to take you seriously is nearly impossible. But, without local help, living in temporary housing (like an air BnB) after arrival can delay your citizenship application. A long term registered lease is required in most comuni before they will allow you to begin the jure sanguinis process. The clock starts ticking as soon as you arrive with strict deadlines for your permesso di soggiorno, without which you only have ninety days on a US tourist visa.
So, you’re not applying for citizenship? Don’t breathe a sigh of relief just yet. You’re still not free and clear if you plan on going the visa route. An Italian visa application requires a signed lease for at least one year before your visa is even approved! Getting a lease with fair terms should your visa application fail is practically unheard of without any connections. Be careful, as you could wind up on the hook for an entire year of rent!
If you’re looking for housing from the inside of Italy, you’re still likely to have a hard time finding someone willing to rent to you. Even with sufficient proof that you can afford to pay rent, renting to a foreigner is still a huge risk to an Italian landlord. Tenants’ rights in Italy are much more protective of the tenant. Landlords have very little recourse against non-payment and a much harder time evicting.
If you plan on traveling to Italy on a student visa, be prepared for landlords to ask for a guarantor, an in person signature from parents or a guardian, and even as much as four months’ deposit!
Without strong connections in your new local community, having local help to vouch for your legitimacy and low risk factor is the next best thing and a near requirement for landing the right lease.
That’s where we come in. We’ve been in your shoes. Let our experience be your advantage. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process or don’t know where to start, book a call with Studio Settebello today—let us be the most valuable card in your hand as you navigate your move to Italy.
