Arriving in Italy brings many small tasks. You do not need to do all of them at once. This checklist puts them in a calm order, so you always know the next step.
Weeks 1 and 2
- Get your codice fiscale, the Italian tax code. Many other steps need it.
- Keep copies of your passport, visa or residence papers, and your lease or property deeds.
- Decide where your post will arrive and write your address details in one note.
Weeks 3 to 6
- Ask your town hall (comune) how to register your residence.
- Check which permit applies to you, and by when you must ask for it.
- Look at health cover. What you can use depends on your situation, so ask the local health authority (ASL) or a professional.
- Open an Italian bank account if you need one for rent, bills or a salary.
Weeks 7 to 12
- Put utilities and your phone contract in your name.
- Write down dates that come back every year, such as property tax or a permit renewal.
- Find a tax and legal adviser you trust before you urgently need one.
Keep it calm
Offices work differently from town to town. Rules and waiting times change. If a step is unclear, ask the office directly or ask a qualified professional. Write down who told you what, and when.
Keep every receipt and every stamped paper. If you hire help, ask for a written quote and use a protected payment, so the money moves only when the work is done.