Living in Italy and the Present Climate Toward EU Citizens

Summary: What’s it like living in Italy in light of recent Italian backlashes against certain nationalities of expatriate

Recent events in Italy regarding European Union citizens of Romanian descent likely have many would be expatriates wondering if this is really the right country for them, or at least the right time to make the move to live in Italy.  If you’re planning on relocating to Italy from the UK, or another EU country, there is little doubt the decrees and expulsions are weighing on your mind … especially if you intend to live in Italy full time with plans to make a life there.

In this article, we’ll take a look at living in Italy and the present climate toward EU citizens as well as recent events and what they mean.  We’ll also explore some of the things you might want to do before picking up and moving permanently to Italy.

The 30th October attack on Giovanna Reggiania, which led to her death, has whipped up a fury of anti-Romanian sentiment within Italy.  In the days since Romanian Nicolae Milat was accused of the crime, Italy has expelled a number of Romanian citizens.  The country has also set forth decrees that enable the expulsion of other EU citizens if the action is backed by a judge.  Whilst this falls within the directives of the EU if public health and security is threatened, some are wondering if this could jeopardise their status in Italy at the whim of a misguided official.  Many believe Italy’s application of EU directives reaches beyond the real intent, closer to wholesale racism towards Romanians.

Although there is little doubt that anti-Romanian sentiments and some distrust of foreigners in general has clouded the Italian climate as of late, many expatriates still feel very much at home living in Italy.  If moving to Italy is your intent however, many advise that you really take the time to explore the options, visit the country and see for yourself whether on not you would personally feel comfortable in Italy’s bustling cities or rolling countryside regions.

If you have decided that living in Italy is for you, a rather expansive network of expats await.  Would be expats here find a large British community already in place, along with Americans, French, Aussies and more.  Whilst little to no trouble has been reported among these communities, new residents are still advised to: -

Learn the language.  You don’t have to be fluent, but having a basic capability to communicate can very much help you fit in better and faster.

Learn the customs.  When the basic rules of etiquette distinct to the culture are understood, there is less room for misunderstanding.  Learning everything from proper greetings to how to shop can very much ease a transition.

Keep your nose clean! Learn local laws and rules for acceptable behaviour and follow them.  Whilst you will be making your home in Italy, remember Italian laws, customs and rules apply – not British, French, Dutch etc.!

The climate for expats is a little tense in Italy at the moment.  Despite this, many find they still feel very comfortable visiting, working and living in Italy so don’t be put off – do your own due diligence and get a feel for whether you personally would feel comfortable living in Italy.

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