An Expat Talks about Living in Naples, Italy

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Naples

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Before retiring in Naples, expats should know that they will need to obtain a visa if they are not EU citizens. They should also be aware that the cost of living in Naples is lower than in many other European cities, but still higher than in many parts of the United States. Expats should know that they will need to have a good understanding of Italian as English is not widely spoken in Naples. They should also be aware that the healthcare system in Italy is very good, but it can be difficult to navigate if you do not speak Italian. Expats should know that Naples has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. They should also be aware that Naples is known for its rich history and culture, and is home to many world-renowned museums and historical sites. Expats should know that Naples has a high crime rate compared to other Italian cities, and they should take precautions to ensure their safety. They should also be aware that the city has a reputation for being chaotic and noisy, but also vibrant and full of life. Expats should know that Italian cuisine is a big part of the culture in Naples, and the city is famous for its pizza. They should also be aware that public transportation in Naples is not always reliable, and many people choose to walk or use scooters to get around. Expats should know that they will need to pay Italian taxes on their worldwide income if they become a resident of Italy. They should also be aware that they may need to pay a wealth tax on any property they own in Italy. Expats should know that they will need to open an Italian bank account to handle their finances in Italy. They should also be aware that they will need to obtain an Italian tax code, known as a codice fiscale, in order to do things like rent a property or buy a car. Expats should know that they will need to register with the local town hall, known as the anagrafe, within eight days of arriving in Italy. They should also be aware that they will need to obtain a permesso di soggiorno, or permit of stay, if they plan to stay in Italy for more than 90 days.