Italy Expat Forum

Ruthie05
Joined 2022
Posts: 36

1 year ago

Italy vs France?

1 year ago

Hi. I’m curious about why so many people seem to choose Italy over France. I’ve lived and traveled in both and speak both languages, and am qualified for residency in both countries, which I understand is not the case for everyone, but offers me some perspective. To me, Italy is more beautiful overall and buying property is cheaper so there is that. The famed Italian friendliness is more apparent from Rome south, where you’ll also find more of the famed Italian corruption and dishonesty. I find those in the north to be less gregarious, as are the French, except in smaller towns and villages everywhere. As for the food, great all over but more diverse in France. Even Italian food can get boring after a while! But possibly the biggest difference is dealing with officialdom and it’s associated bureaucracy. France is one of the easiest countries to get a visa for in the EU. They don’t cut you any slack but once everything is in order the process is straightforward and functional. And In Italy, well, these pages are full of tales of woe, of months to get appointments, of being sent off to get a stamp at the tabaccheria only to find you needed another one, and so on. Nothing happens smoothly or with apparent logic, and any Italian will corroborate this. I’m very fluent which made things easier but not enough to make a difference. Went to Nice, found a place to rent (6 yr lease, controlled increases and I only have to give a month’s notice) buy exotic spices at the local market, don’t own or need a car and take care of most of my paperwork online. Just wondering….and also, why does everyone want to buy when long term rentals are so much better value and tenants have so many more rights than in the US already UK?

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Living in Italy Guide

Expats in Italy discuss the pros and cons of living in Italy. From bureaucracy to expensive cities, Italy can be a challenge. Most expats find that the amazing food, charming countryside, beautiful beaches and public healthcare make up for the cons.

Italy Forum
Join our Italy forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Italy.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Italy.

Best Places to Live in Italy

If you're considering a move to Italy, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Italy in 2023.

Healthcare in Italy

An overview of the healthcare system in Italy - public and private hospitals, Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), getting your Tessera Sanitaria (healthcare card), Covid-19 entry requirements, vaccinations for Italy, prescription medication availability and more.

Cost of Living in Italy

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Italy.

Moving to Italy Guide

Expats moving to Italy envision a romantic lifestyle in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. However, it is important to make sure that you do comprehensive research and fully understand what it will mean to move to the city, town or village you choose.

Real Estate in Italy

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Italy.

Pros & Cons of Living in Italy

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Italy.

Retiring in Italy

Advice for people retiring in Italy.

Italy Visa & Residency Guide

Expats share their experiences obtaining residency in Italy. They discuss the ins and outs of the applying for the permesso di soggiorno, recent travel issues, permanent residency in Italy and more.

10 Tips for Living in Italy

If you've recently arrived in Italy, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Italy.

Additional Information:

Visit our Italy Index for a Full List

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Italy by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Italy.