Moving to Calabria, Italy: A Comprehensive Guide

Calabria is a southern Italian region with nearly 2 million residents. It borders Basilicata to the north and is flanked by the Ionian Sea to the east and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west. The Strait of Messina separates it from Sicily. Its capital is Catanzaro, and the region covers 15,222 square kilometres. Relocating to the Calabria region is an exciting opportunity for many. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Calabria offers a unique blend of picturesque coastlines and historic towns. As an international European removal company, VanOne facilitates transitions for those moving to Calabria, Italy.

Italy: From the Visa to the Relocation

Moving to Calabria, Italy, begins with securing the appropriate visa. A long-stay visa is necessary for UK citizens if you plan to stay beyond 90 days. This process involves gathering essential documents such as proof of accommodation, financial stability, and health insurance. Once you have your visa, the following steps include finding a suitable home and registering your residency at the local police station within eight days of arrival. And that’s just the beginning. The bureaucratic part seems soft when later, such things as the culture shock between the UK and Italy and deeper feelings of longing for familiar aspects of your life start to hit. We’ll bring up these questions in the following paragraphs.

10 Things to Do Before Relocating to Italy

Before relocating to Italy, ensure you secure the appropriate visa if you’re from outside the EU and have your passport and necessary documents in order. Research housing options, considering cost variations between city centres and suburbs, and use reputable platforms like HousingAnywhere and Idealista to find safe rentals. Register with the Italian healthcare system (SSN) upon arrival, or get private insurance if you’re a non-EU citizen. Register for a residence permit at the local Anagrafe office within eight days of arrival, essential for accessing services like banking. Learning Italian will significantly aid your integration and improve your job prospects​.

In summary, here are 10 Things to Do Before Relocating to Italy:

• Secure a long-stay visa.
• Arrange for international removals to Italy.
• Find temporary accommodation.
• Research healthcare options.
• Open an Italian bank account.
• Learn basic Italian phrases.
• Understand local laws and regulations.
• Register with the local municipality.
• Explore local schools if moving with children.
• Get familiar with transportation options.

Story: From Vacation to Residency

Sarah is from the UK and wanted to use her vacation days to learn Italian. The moment she arrived, it was love at first sight. The air, the colours and even the noisy airport made her feel like dreaming. The impulsiveness took up her ability to evaluate the whole situation, and her mind was made up. Family and friends were trying to advise her that a month wasn’t enough time to redesign her entire life because she fell for a country. That was no use, and she decided to stay. To become a resident, she applied for a long-stay visa, found a job as an English tutor, and secured a rental apartment in Tropea. Through persistence and embracing the local culture, Sarah successfully transitioned to her new life in Calabria. The household removal was successful; everything was very organised, and she delivered a detailed inventory. We could clear her goods and ship them from the UK to Italy without problems.

Homesickness When Living Abroad

Adapting to a new country can be challenging, and homesickness is a shared experience. To mitigate this, engage with the local community, explore Calabria’s beautiful surroundings, and stay connected with loved ones back home. Embracing local customs and learning the Italian language can also ease the transition.

Living in Italy: Should I Go Back to My Home Country?

Relocating to Italy is exciting and offers many enticing benefits. However, some expats might consider returning to their home country due to various challenges. Here are some insights and practical advice to help you navigate these issues:

Reasons to Stay:

• Appealing Lifestyle: Many expats find Italy’s slower pace of life, delicious food, and vibrant social scenes very appealing. The Mediterranean climate and picturesque landscapes also contribute to a high quality of life.
• Strong Community Ties: Italians are known for their strong family values, and once you befriend locals, they often treat you like family. This sense of community can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Challenges and Solutions:

• Employment Issues: Job security can be a concern, especially for expats who might be the first to lose their jobs during economic downturns. To mitigate this, ensure you have a solid contract with clauses for prior notice and compensation in case of termination​.
• Language Barrier: Not being fluent in Italian can be a significant hurdle. Start learning the language before your move and continue improving it through classes and practice. This will help in daily interactions and in forming deeper connections with locals​.
• Cultural Differences: Adjusting to cultural differences can be challenging. In the UK, people value independence and formality, whereas in Italy, there is a greater emphasis on family and expressive communication. Embracing these differences and adopting a flexible attitude can ease the cultural transition​.
• Repatriation Challenges: Returning home can be more daunting than initially moving abroad due to high expectations and re-adjusting to a familiar yet changed environment. Manage your expectations and approach repatriation as you would moving to a new country by planning and preparing in advance.

Practical Tips:

• Networking: Build and maintain a network both in Italy and back home. This can help with job opportunities and social integration.
• Healthcare: Sign up for private health insurance to ensure access to quality medical care.
• Visit Home: If you have the financial means, regular visits back home whenever possible can help mitigate homesickness and keep connections alive.

Recent Developments for Non-EU Expats

Italy has introduced various incentives to attract new residents, particularly in regions like Calabria. Programs offering financial support for relocation and starting new businesses aim to revitalise these areas. Being proactive in understanding visa regulations, employment opportunities, and community integration can significantly enhance your relocation experience.

House Removal Services With VanOne

VanOne offers comprehensive house removal services, ensuring that moving household goods to Italy is stress-free. Our tailored services are made to meet all your relocation needs, from customs clearance to door-to-door delivery. As an international European removal company, we understand the preoccupations behind the costs of moving services and the security of your belongings. At VanOne International Movers, all your goods are insured, and you can manage your requests through our user-friendly platform. You can even generate your own quotes to see what offer suits your needs best. Contact us today and see how our specialised team can help.