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Italy is renowned as the land of great wine, superb food and vibrant people. Millions of people all around the world think about applying for Italian citizenship.
There is no doubt it is an attractive spot as it offers lucrative job opportunities to all professionals living overseas. The country, in particular in the south, also boasts pleasant weather all around the year so it is a good place to settle down, especially if you are retiring.
The cities are quite modern but there are also quaint rural areas rich in tradition, thereby helping Italy retain its old-world charm. Thus, moving there comes off as a thrilling opportunity.
However, you should remember that it also requires careful thinking on your part and it is wrong to believe that your life in Italy is going to be one long holiday.
There are lots of barriers you need to overcome and you also have to prepare yourself for the obstacles that may stand in your path when you make your move to Italy. But, what are these problems? Here are some of the factors to consider before you make the decision to move to Italy:
What do you know of Italy’s culture?
Italy is a place rich with traditions and history and it is a good idea to get to know about them before you make it your home. Italy’s diverse ties with the Mediterranean world such as Spain, Greece and North Africa have had great influence on the country’s culture. The country is also quite regionalized and there are a lot of differences you will come across from one part of Italy to the other. There is a broad divide between southern and northern Italians and you need to be conscious of these provincial subcultures.
Do you know the language?
Italian is the official language of the country and you need to know it quite well if you intend to move to the country. Sure, some Italians do understand English, but it is best to know the local language if you want to be able to settle in easily. Furthermore, understanding the language can also give you insights into the traditional worldview and culture of the country and its people. While you may not be able to become fluent in the language until you move, it is best to know some basic Italian to make the transition easier.
Have you looked at the job opportunities?
If you have decided to move to Italy because you think you will be able to enjoy a higher quality of life there as opposed to where you currently live, you should ensure this can actually happen. Sure, you have heard about plenty of job opportunities available in the country, but do any of them apply to your area of expertise? It would be a disaster if you move to Italy only to find out you cannot find a suitable job according to your experience and talents or you may not get the salary you are after. You need to evaluate the career opportunities in the country before choosing to make the move.
Do you have a residence?
Finding a place to live in Italy may not prove very difficult, especially when you have estate agents helping you. But you should remember that this is only in the case of temporary residences. Finding a permanent home is more difficult because there is an endless list of things that need to be taken into account. Your requirements for a permanent home are different than a holiday home and your budget also varies. Therefore, you first need to make proper living arrangements before leaving your own country.
Did you visit Italy?
In pictures, every country is going to look beautiful and inviting. That’s the whole point of the photographs, but you should not decide to move to a country just by looking at these images. Visit Italy at least once and check it out in person. It is recommended that you visit at different times of the year, if possible, so you can see how the area is going to be and judge if you can adjust to it or not.
Considering these factors will help you in making the right decision when you are thinking of moving to Italy.