Moving To Italy from USA

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Make an international move to Italy from the USA

Italy is a dream country in the south-central Europe. Whether you are a history buff looking to reside and marvel at the eons old historical and cultural heritage or you want to breath in the latest global fashion ambience of Milan or just looking to relocate to Italy from the USA as an expat, Italy is a hub for all! The destination to a flurry of exotic tourist spots, the setting to 13 of Shakespearean plays, the home to the smallest country in the world, Italy has more in store to woo you to move from the USA!

The International Sea & Air Shipping Advantages

As dreamy as it sounds to move to Italy from the USA, the actual process can get you exasperated! Just like any other international relocation, moving in Italy from the USA will need you to get started on a long list of documentation and other bureaucratic processes. It’s a lot to process, we understand!

It is here that our professional team of international moving experts at International Sea & Air Shipping can hold your hands and guide you through the entire process hassle-free. In fact, with our help you can glide-through the entire process of the dream international move to Italy from the USA!

The relocation process involves not only your documentation but also transferring your household goods when you are transporting those to Italy. There are the aspects concerning the shipping cost, time and safety for your relocation. At International Sea & Air Shipping we provide end to end specialized services for all types of moving.

International moving can be quite costly and time consuming. But at International Sea & Air Shipping we understand how crucial it is that you can save both! That is why we employ highly experienced, insured professionals who will handle your relocation to Italy from the USA for you while you can relax and enjoy a hassle-free move.

So, let our professionals handle your international relocation to Italy from the USA while you can enjoy the prospect of moving to this dream European country.

Packing for a move to Italy

It is important to limit the items you ship. International shipments cost more based on space and they can take a long time to arrive at your destination. You need to choose wisely and make your shipment as small as possible. There are also some items that you are not allowed to ship into Italy, so make sure your shipment does not contain:

  • Pornography
  • Narcotics
  • Animal skins, ivory, and furs
  • Most food products including sugar, coffee, tea, and pepper
  • Cordless electronics/walkie-talkies
  • AV electronics that do not have the “CE” marking
  • Perfumes

When packing for a move to Italy, you may also want to avoid the following items that have heavy, varied restrictions on their importation into Italy. These items may carry an extra duty you will need to pay or will require separate certification. Unless they are absolutely necessary to take with you to Italy, they usually aren’t worth the hassle.

  • Weapons
  • New furniture
  • Precious metals
  • Antiques
  • Appliances
  • Art
  • Plants
  • Alcohol
  • Tobacco
  • Cars
  • Pets

Customs Regulations for Italy

  • Passport (copy)
  • Residence Visa
  • Work Permit
  • Inventory in Italian, signed by Customer and approved by Italian Consulate
  • Fiscal Number (Codice Fiscale, equivalent to an American social security number)
  • Consular Declaration released by the nearest Italian Consulate, certifying the length of stay abroad, the repatriation date, the Italian nationality of the Customer, and the names of the family members (for Italian citizens only)
  • Residency Certificate stating number of members in the family, nationality, city and country from which the customer is transferring residence, and date of residence in Italy (for foreigners only)
  • Dichiarazione Sostitutiva di certificazione – provided by Destination Agent, completed and signed by client
  • “Permesso a Soggiorno” (permit to stay) by Police Office Foreign Department
  • Autocertificazione” – client attestation: of transfer of residence, family status, value of goods
  • Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
  • Power of Attorney – giving authority for Destination Agent to arrange customs clearance
  • Letter from Employer –attesting to client’s employment contract, start date
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If the customer is moving to Italy permanently, and has lived outside the European Union for the previous 12 months, both personal effects and household goods may be imported free of duty and tax if:

  • Goods were owned for one year, (18 months if Italian citizen)
  • Goods are not for resale
  • Goods are imported within six months of customer’s arrival

If all documentation is in order and received prior to arrival of shipment, the customer may not have to be present at the time of clearance.

  • Pornographic material
  • Narcotics and drugs
  • Animal skins, fur, tusks, ivory
  • Food products including coffee, tea, sugar and pepper
  • Perfumes
  • Cordless electronics & walkie- talkies
  • Audiovisual electronics not marked CE
  • Firearms, ammunition and combat knives (including ornamental weapons) can be imported with a special permit obtained from the Police Office–they must be clearly declared on the inventory with make, type and serial number, and must not be included in the same container as the household goods
  • Weapons must be recorded in the National Catalogue of Weapons – weapons without a serial number (applies to USA, Canada, Japan & Australia) must be sent to the National Test Stand at Gardone Val Trompia, where Customs Authority will assign one
  • Import License – obtained at origin
  • Client must be present during clearance
  • Clearance of firearms with serial numbers takes 15-20 days
  • Clearance takes 2-3 months for firearms needing assignment of serial numbers
  • New furniture, new household good items, wedding trousseaux, souvenirs and precious metal objects need receipts and are subject to duty
  • Appliances/electronic equipment require an Import Permit from the Italian Ministry of Posts and Communications, may require receipts
  • Antiques, pictures, works of art, carpets etc. require authorization– a Fine Arts inspection and special Import Permit from the Fine Arts authorities at extra cost, payable by the customer, must be packed separately (in crates or cartons), loaded near container door
  • Plants and vegetable products require a Phytosanitary Certificate
  • Alcohol and tobacco–must be shipped separately

For customers planning to ship a vehicle (one auto for non-Italians) it will be admitted into Italy duty-free if the customer has lived abroad for over one year, has owned and used the vehicle at least six months, and is bringing it to Italy for personal use. The car cannot be sold for at least one year after the customer’s arrival.
Documents needed:

  • Passport or Telespresso (diplomats) – copy
  • Italian Fiscal Code (returning Italians) – copy
  • Certificate of Title and Registration – original, in client’s name; and a notarized Italian translation
  • Commercial/Purchase Invoice – must be original
  • Drivers License & International Insurance Policy (green card)
  • Technical Data Sheet – from manufacturer, stating car features and declaration of conformities with EU requirements
  • Insurance Policy – valid for circulation in Italy
  • Certificate of Vaccination – (International version) rabies vaccine date must be at least 20 days before certificate is issued by the veterinarian at origin
  • Health Certificate – by a veterinarian at origin, must state pet was vaccinated against rabies, issued prior to departure to Italy; validity is for 3 days only
  • Certificate of Origin – obtained from veterinarian at origin
  • Every pet must be identified by a microchip or a tattoo– in case of identification with a tattoo, the tattoo must be clearly readable and applied before July 2011

CUSTOMER MUST CONTACT THE ITALIAN EMBASSY OR CONSULATE FOR ALL FURTHER DETAILS, AS ITALIAN IMPORT REGULATIONS ARE COMPLICATED AND VARY ACCORDING TO CUSTOMER’S IMMIGRATION STATUS.

NOTE – Customs regulations are subject to change at any time. The proceeding information is a brief summary of customs regulations applicable to household goods shipments to this destination and is being provided for general guidance to assist our Agents and Customers. Since such regulations are subject to change without notice, International sea & air shipping cannot be held liable for any costs, damage, delays, or other detrimental events resulting from non-compliance. Always double check with your local embassy or consulate.

Call our International Moving Specialists @ 1 (866) 315-4170

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About Italy

Best known for its hand in shaping Western culture as we know it, the southern European country of Italy is famous for its iconic artwork of mythological and biblical heroes, its beautiful coast, breathtaking landscapes, and overall diverse regional cultures and dialects. To this day, Italy is the most-visited European country, and is the fifth most populous country in Europe.


Italy induces dream! With a long coastline with the Mediterranean Sea the country has been studded with exotic beach destinations! The ancient ruins of yesteryear are no less dramatic and then there is the Vatican, the smallest country in the whole world ruled by Pope himself. Italy is also reputed for Milan, the global fashion destination and then there is the reputation of the country as the gastronomic paradise.

The country is situated on the Mediterranean Sea surrounded by Austria, France, Slovenia and Switzerland Italy also surrounds two independent mini-states: San Marino and Vatican City. Its origins can be traced back at least 200,000 years – before its Neolithic civilizations were wiped out or assimilated.

Italy also leaves its mark when it comes to idiosyncratic cuisine (which varies by region). It is influenced by Etruscan, Jewish, ancient Greek and ancient Roman cuisines and is known to be one of the most popular culinary influences around the world.

Italy is the seventh-largest nominal GDP, 10th-highest purchasing power parity, and has the sixth-highest government budget in the world. Italy’s exporters and importers are: U.S., Spain, UK, Switzerland, Germany, France, China, Netherlands, Russia and Belgium.

Undoubtedly moving to Italy from the USA can be touted as a dream international move. To make it perfect We are here at International Sea & Air Shipping with our comprehensive international moving guide and free moving quotes!

Why move to Italy?

Italy is a great tourist attraction. Moving there will give you ample interesting sights, sounds, and tastes to experience. Most of these pleasures are short term, vacation-like experiences, but having decent diversions is an important part of choosing somewhere to live. You can’t deny that Italy is one of the most-visited places in the world for many valid reasons:

Food – Everyone loves Italian food, and even though the true Italian versions of pizza and pasta may differ from what we have in the United States, they are often considered even better (although not usually healthier) in Italy. There will be no shortage of quality restaurants to try.

Art – The Renaissance primarily happened in Italy, so in many ways the country is the art capital of the world. The Lourve may be in France, but there are many museums in Italy and art is displayed in a lot of public places. Art enthusiasts have more than just Michelangelo’s David to explore, as there are huge museums in Florence, Rome, and Venice.

Land marks – The Roman Colosseum. The Leaning Tower of Pisa. The Floating City of Venice. There are many world famous place to see and visit in Italy.

Climate – Italy has a temperate climate, but much of it is mild. The Italian Alps are often cold and provide a good place for winter sports. Southern Italy gets hot in the summer for beach-going activities.

Documentation required for relocation to Italy from USA

If your moving to Italy from the USA as a US citizen there are residential permits that you will need to obtain. There are two types of permits that you can apply to relocate and live in Italy.

  • The Temporary Permit or Permesso di Soggiorno: This type of residential permit for relocating to Italy from the USA will enable you to live in this country for a short period of time. This permit is renewable also but the validity may vary each time. With this temporary residential permit you can apply for permanent Italian citizenship only after 10 years of uninterrupted stay in this country.
  • The permanent residential permit or Carta di Soggiorno: This type of permit is more suitable when you have decided to move to Italy from the USA for a really long term stay or permanent residency in this European country. This permit is issued for an indefinite period of time with no need for renewal. Added advantage is with this permit you can apply for permanent residential permit after 5 years of uninterrupted stay in Italy instead of 10 years like in case of the temporary permit. With Carta di Soggiorno you can even enjoy the rights similar to the citizens of Italy, work and live in the country.

There are also six types of visas that you can apply for if you are considering moving to Italy from the USA. Here is the list –

  • Student Visa
  • Work Visa
  • Self-employed Visa
  • EU Blue Card
  • Golden Visa
  • Elective Visa

Important things to know to move in Italy from the USA

The Cost of Moving to Italy from USA

International moving cost for relocating to Italy from the USA can be heavy on pocket. However, smart budgeting can help you slim down this cost considerably. At International Sea & Air Shipping we can help you plan your moving to Italy from A to Z and help your plan to streamline. Yet some of the cost that you will definitely incur, includes the following –

  • Cost of VISA
  • Cost of actual relocation from the origin country to the destination
  • Cost of moving your household goods
  • Cost of renting/buying house
  • Cost of getting an international driving license
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Cost of living in Italy

While talking about the cost of living in Italy, first thing to remember is that in this country the general income is lower than that of the USA. However, the living cost is also lower compared to the USA. But like in most European countries, it will always vary depending on where in Italy you want to live. As usual. The leading and prominent cities are costlier than that of towns and remote villages. You can always decide based on the nature of your work which part of the country you will look for a house when you relocate to Italy from the USA.

Important things to consider after you move to Italy

There are quite a few things that you will immediately have to attend to once you relocate to Italy from the USA. Here is a comprehensive list to help you out –

Inform the Questura/Police

When you are moving to Italy from the USA as a long term resident in this country, longer than 90 days, you have to inform the local police. This has to be done within 8 days from the date of your arrival ion this country.

Apply for Tax Code Number or Codice Fiscale

A Codice Fiscale is nothing but your tax code number. This is required for accessing a number of daily life facilities like being able to open a bank account or access the healthcare system.

Register the residency with the Comune & apply for permesso di soggiorno

In case you will be living in Italy more than 90 days after you relocate to Italy from the USA you need to register as a resident of this country at the local Comune, or with the respective town government. There are two types of permits. These are:

  • Permesso di soggiorno
  • Carta di soggiorno

While we hope this comprehensive guide is able to offer you all necessary information when you are considering moving to Italy from the USA, you can also check out our other international moving guides from the International Sea & Air Shipping that covers relocation advice to France, Spain, Greece, Austria, Switzerland and many more!

Prepare for Italian culture

Preparing for life in another country isn’t all about passports and choosing the right things to ship. You also need to understand the culture of your destination in order to feel at home once you move there. Here is Italian culture at a glance:

  • Italian is the official language and is spoken by the vast majority of the native population. English is not normally among the other languages spoken in Italy. Learn Italian unless you want to find a bilingual friend who can translate everything for you
  • Roman Catholic is the religion for the vast majority of the country. Vatican City is housed in Italy, after all
  • The economy ranks high on the GDP, but business in Italy has run into some problems in recent years. Getting a job there may be difficult
  • Family is very important in Italy, but this spills over into business. Nepotism is quite common in Italian businesses
  • Northern Italy is more population dense and multicultural, while southern Italy is more culturally isolated and physically spread out

You were so helpful with everything

“I’ve moved many times, and always get apprehensive, because there has not been even one moving company I would use again.  Lots of nightmare stories, including one that charged me almost twice their estimate, and held my stuff for ransom until I paid.   This was even more stressful, shipping an entire container from the US to Italy, but International Sea & Shipping were great, from start to finish.  They told me exactly what all the charges would be,even on the Italian side with customs clearance, how long the process would take, and they were all true to their word.  The guys that picked up my stuff in FL were the best ever – extremely polite, careful and kind.  Even on the Italian side, they did a great job.  Not one thing was damaged after all that.  Boaz, I thank you for being an honest, decent man, and Jeanine, you were so helpful with everything.  I could not recommend these guys more.  I feel like I got REALLY lucky.”

Carlo

You can also check out for some of the neighboring countries of Italy –