What to consider before making the big move
Moving to another country is a big decision and usually takes years of planning. However, as I sit in my home situated in the suburbs of a large Midwest city, I find myself contemplating a move to Italy. It is February and typically by now we have bought our tickets to Italy for the summer, but here we are asking ourselves “Should we go?”. For years I have dreamed of living overseas “some day”. “Some day” may be closer than I thought.
I think all the inspirational podcasts I listen to in the car may be to blame. The idea was then further solidified during my morning commute to work. Often I would continually run the numbers through my head and it seemed to me that our expenses would be drastically cut if we made the move to Italy. For several months I mulled this over before mentioning the idea to my husband. He then told his mom, which I initially did not appreciate because it seemed like a “crazy” idea of mine. However, she took action, which prompted me to investigate whether living in Italy was really possible for our family. It looks like it may actually be. We will need to consider our options a bit more, but as we contemplate what next year will look like, we are keeping the following in mind.
1. Visa/Citizenship
Of course this is one of the biggest hurdles to overcome. It is possible to get an Elective Residence Visa, however, this does not allow a person to work. There’s of course a Working Visa or Student Visa.
Citizenship can be procured in a couple different ways, but namely through marriage, as well as through jus sanguinis. Jus Sanguinis permits a person with an Italian ancestor to apply for citizenship. As of December 2018 they have changed the application process (at least for citizenship through marriage), and a certain level of proficiency in Italian is required. They have also increased the timeframe to 48 months!
I myself have applied for citizenship. Initially I applied and my application was rejected because they weren’t certified. Then the rules changed and I had to send over another 50 euro (while the wire transfer itself cost $50!). So this leaves me wondering about the Italian language requirement. The consulate does not know yet if this new rule applies to me, so for now I wait.
2. Finances
Besides permission to legally stay in Italy, this is undoubetly the next thing to consider. Job opportunities are not as plentiful in Italy as at home in the States. However, our plan is to have an American job lined up before heading over to Italy. I plan on providing speech teletherapy. In general, Italy seems to make the most sense financially for expats that are either retired or working online.
Taxes are nothing to laugh about in Italy. I have heard that it is not uncommon for half of someone’s salary going to taxes. When moving to Italy we will need to wait until July to make the move or else the money we’ve made here in the states would be taxed by the Italian government, as well.
3. Healthcare
As my husband is self-emplyed and I work part-time, we don’t qualify for employer-sponsored insurance. I am growing weary with paying so much for health insurance and then getting burned. Enough said. I’m just sort of fed up with it all. I know Italy’s system isn’t perfect either, but knock on wood, we’re a realtively healthy family.
4. Education
This is another reason we’re considering a move. I have two young sons and the oldest currently attends preschool. It’s not that expensive because he only attends 5 hours/week. However, I think it’d be beneficial for him to attend more frequently. If he were to move he would attend the preschool right next door to our home. The hours are from approximately 8:30-9:00 to 12:00, Mondays-Fridays. This could easily cost close to $4000 where we live, but it would be free in Italy.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Things I’d Miss
Of course I have to say I’d miss family, friends, and our house. With those out of the way, in no particular order, I would miss…
- Air conditioning
- Clothes Dryer
- Our spectatcular library system
- Children’s museum membership
- Metro Parks activities & events
- Our zoo membership
- Clean, exciting swimming pools
- Our own car
- Customer Service
- The efficiency in the way things work here
What I’d Gain
Despite this, we are seriously considering making a move to Italy. What would we gain?
- Fewer expenses=less time working
- More family time
- Opportunity to learn more Italian
- Abundance of beautiful scenery
- Daily preschool for our son
- Availability of public transportation
- Close proximity to the mountains and sea
- Cheaper travel
- Ability to walk everywhere
- Evening “passiagata”
- Fresh produce for less money
- Cheese, wine, pasta, gelato, pizza!
What to do?
We have a lot to consider before we commit to such a big decision, but in my opinion, more family time is a big factor, and I feel like could be the deciding factor in this decision. The time with our children when they’re young feels so fleeting. We have a lot of thinking to do these next few weeks and months.
