Publication date: 05.06.2024
Permanent residence in Italy: Dolce Vita in the heart of Europe
When it comes to moving to another country for permanent residence, many Ukrainians dream of an idyllic life on a sunny coast, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. This is exactly the picture that Italy promises - a country with a centuries-old history, unrivaled cuisine and one of the most comfortable climates in Europe. For those who are considering the possibility of leaving Ukraine for permanent residence in another country, Italy offers not just a place of residence, but a real way of life - the famous “Dolce Vita”.
First of all, Italy is part of the European Union, which makes it extremely attractive for those who dream of permanent residence in EU countries. Italian permanent resident status opens the door to the entire Schengen area. This means that once you settle in Italy, you have the opportunity to freely travel, study and work in any of the 27 EU countries. This flexibility is especially valuable for those considering permanent residence in one country to live and work in another.
One of the most attractive features of Italy is its climate. For those who want to go for permanent residence to a warm country, Italy is an almost ideal choice. This is especially true in southern regions such as Sicily, Calabria or Puglia, where summers are long and hot and winters are mild. Even in northern areas such as Lombardy or Piedmont, the climate is much milder than in most European countries. So, if you are dreaming of PMP in warm countries, Italy should be on your short list.
But what makes Italy not just warm, but truly attractive for permanent residence? First of all, there is a variety of possibilities. Unlike some other popular destinations, Italy is not all about tourism and agriculture. There are powerful industrial centers (Milan, Turin), world capitals of fashion and design, leading universities and research institutes. This means that a person who comes to a foreign country for permanent residence has a wide choice of professional paths.
The process of obtaining permanent residence in Italy is quite transparent, although not without bureaucratic difficulties. The most popular paths include:
1. Work visa: If you have a contract with an Italian company, you can get a work visa, which leads to permanent residence after a few years. Specialists in the field of IT, engineering, medicine and finance are especially valued.
2. Student visa: Studying at Italian universities not only provides an excellent education, but also opens the door to permanent residence. After completing your studies, you have the right to stay in the country to look for work.
3. Marriage or family reunification: If your partner is an Italian citizen or has permanent residence, you can obtain a residence permit with the prospect of permanent residence.
4. Investment visa: For entrepreneurs and investors, Italy offers a special visa, which is granted in exchange for significant investment in the Italian economy.
5. "Elective Residency Visa" program: This option is suitable for those who have a stable passive income (for example, from renting real estate in Ukraine) and want to live in Italy without working there.
It is important to understand that relocating for permanent residence to another country is not only a legal procedure. This is a profound cultural and personal transformation. Italy, with its rich traditions and special rhythm of life, can become a real challenge for a person coming from Ukraine. Leisurely lunches, long siestas, and spontaneous conversations with strangers are appreciated here. For those accustomed to the fast pace of large Ukrainian cities, such a change in rhythm may at first seem like a shock.
Language is another important factor. Although English is widely understood in tourist areas and big cities, Italian dominates everyday life. Her knowledge not only makes life easier, but also opens the door to true integration into society. Numerous language schools and social clubs help beginners in this process.
The financial aspect also requires attention. Yes, compared to some Nordic countries, Italy may seem more affordable. But the cost of living varies greatly depending on the region. Milan and Rome are some of the most expensive cities in Europe, while life in small towns in Calabria or Marche can be surprisingly frugal. Many Ukrainians who move to Italy for permanent residence choose these small communities where they can enjoy the authentic Italian lifestyle without financial stress.
Another advantage of Italy is its geographical location. Situated in the center of the Mediterranean, the country is an ideal base for travel. From Italy it is easy to get to Greece, Spain, Southern France - other warm countries often considered by Ukrainians for permanent residence. This gives you the opportunity to "try out" different Mediterranean cultures before finally deciding where to settle.
