Why Retire in Italy?
A Program Designed for Retirees
Everything sounds wonderful, but setting up a new life abroad is never simple, and the biggest challenge is often the language. Learning Italian would make it much easier to understand documents, interact with locals, and feel confident in daily life.
That’s where our program comes in, with two intakes dedicated specifically to retirees and a syllabus focused on your needs – for example, learning the Italian used in bureaucratic documents.
The starting level is A2 (if you haven’t reached it yet, we can help you get there with online lessons too). From there, our Retire in Italy Program is designed to take you to B2, the level needed to live confidently abroad, while also allowing you to explore the country and decide where to settle – whether in Tuscany or any of Italy’s other beautiful regions.
The program lasts 6 months (20 hours of Italian per week) and starts twice a year, on the second Monday of January and the first Monday of September. If you prefer, you can also join one of our classic courses at any time of the year, in mixed classes with people of all ages.
What We Offer
Included in the Program Fee
Extra Fee
Not Included in the Program
Intakes & Duration
The Retire in Italy Program starts twice a year and lasts 6 months. Intake groups are designed to bring together participants at a similar stage of life: you will study alongside other people preparing for retirement in Italy, enjoy a richer calendar of cultural activities, and benefit from a favorable program price.
Intake 1
January Intake
- Starts on the second Monday of January
- Duration: 6 months (until mid-July)
- 20 hours of Italian per week, from A2 to B2
Intake 2
September Intake
- Starts on the first Monday of September
- Duration: 6 months (until late February)
- 20 hours of Italian per week, from A2 to B2
Prefer different dates or a different duration? You can enroll in our Standard Course at any time of the year, starting any Monday, and customize both the start date and the length of your stay. Keep in mind, however, that standard courses are mixed international classes of all ages: only the Retire in Italy intakes group together participants of a similar age, with dedicated cultural activities and a favorable price. Discover the Standard Course
Administrative Requirements
Before starting the application process, we recommend checking directly with the relevant Italian Consulate General or Embassy for the most up-to-date information on entry procedures, visa requirements, and supporting documents. Requirements may vary depending on your nationality and personal situation, so the information below should be considered as general guidance only.
Requirements for EU Citizens
If you are a citizen of the European Union and you want to come to Italy to study, you can enter Italy with a passport or with a national ID valid for travel abroad, without requiring a visa.
However, if your stay exceeds 3 months (90 days), you must register your temporary residence at the Registry Office (Ufficio Anagrafe) of the municipality where you live.
For this registration, you usually need:
- A valid identity document (passport or ID)
- A certificate of enrollment in the course (proof that you are attending a language course)
- The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or other health insurance coverage
- Proof of sufficient financial resources for your stay (usually a self-declaration)
Study visa requirements for non-EU citizens
Language Requirements
While Italian law does not formally require an A2 level, many institutions request proof of basic language knowledge. A school-issued certificate is usually sufficient, but requirements may vary by General Consulate or Embassy.
We can offer online preparation paths for those starting to study Italian from beginner level.
Financial Means
Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited course in Italy and must have paid the full tuition fees for the entire period covered by the visa, while also providing proof of sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.
Accommodation Requirements
You must provide proof of suitable accommodation in Italy. Accepted documents include:
- A registered lease agreement
- A hotel reservation covering at least the first 30 days
- A Declaration of Hospitality signed by an Italian citizen or a legal resident
Health Insurance
Health insurance coverage is mandatory and must include urgent medical care and hospitalization.
The policy must:
- Have a minimum coverage of €30,000
- Be valid for the entire duration of your stay
- Include repatriation coverage
Many students choose private international insurance or commit to enrolling in the Italian National Health Service (SSN) upon arrival.
Passport & Return Trip
- Passport: must be valid for at least three months beyond the visa expiration date
- Return trip: proof of a confirmed return ticket or financial means to purchase one is required
In some cases, applicants may alternatively consider applying for an Elective Residence Visa, depending on their personal situation and long-term plans in Italy.
If you are interested in exploring visa options in more detail, you can consult our dedicated pages on the Student Visa and the Elective Residence Visa.
Why Choose Europass
About the School & Florence
Many retirees dream of a small hill town or a quiet village by the sea. Starting out in a city like Florence, with every service within easy reach, is the ideal way to ease into Italian life first – and then choose your perfect spot with confidence.
You can find us in the heart of Florence at Palazzo Galletti, a beautiful neoclassical building. We are also an official examination center for the CILS and CELI certifications, with exam sessions held on-site throughout the year.
Our Teachers
Our teachers are the best in the field: highly qualified professionals with master’s degrees and the DITALS certification, teaching Italian to international students all year round.
FAQs
Will you support me with visa documents?
Yes, we provide assistance with the documentation required for your student visa (Type D) and your residence permit once you arrive in Italy. In the unlikely event that your visa application is refused, we will refund your program fee minus a €150 administrative fee.What is the recommended duration for a student visa?
Renewing a student visa to study Italian in Italy can be challenging. For this reason, we recommend applying directly for a 12- or 18-month student visa, so you have enough time to complete your studies and decide on your next steps.Can non-EU citizens retire in Italy?
Yes, non-EU citizens can retire in Italy. The most common option is the Elective Residence Visa, designed for people who can support themselves financially without working in Italy. Applicants must show proof of a stable and sufficient income, such as a pension, along with accommodation in Italy and private health insurance. The visa must be obtained before moving to Italy and later converted into a residence permit.Which regions are most popular among retirees?
Many retirees choose Italian regions that balance cost of living, climate, and lifestyle. Southern regions such as Sicily and Apulia are popular for their affordable living costs and mild climate. Central regions, including Tuscany, Abruzzo, and Umbria, appeal to those seeking small hill towns and a slower pace of life. In the north, areas like Lombardy and Veneto attract retirees who value excellent healthcare, international connections, and cultural life, though living costs tend to be higher.Is Italy more affordable compared to other European countries?
Italy can be more affordable than many Western European countries, especially outside major cities. Housing, food, and everyday expenses are often lower than in countries like France, Germany, or the UK, particularly in smaller towns and southern regions.How are foreign pensions taxed in Italy?
One of the most attractive incentives is the 7% flat tax regime for foreign retirees who transfer their tax residence to eligible municipalities in southern Italy. This incentive can significantly reduce the tax burden on foreign pensions and other overseas income, making Italy a financially appealing destination for retirement.Do I need a private health insurance?
EU citizens can usually use the EHIC for urgent care but are advised to have coverage until registering as residents. Non‑EU retirees must have private health insurance to apply for the Elective Residence Visa. Once legally resident, all retirees can register with the Italian public health system (SSN) for full access to healthcare, though some keep private insurance for faster service.Where will I live during the program?
We can assist you in finding accommodation in Florence, guiding you through the different options available.Ready to take the next step?
If you have questions about which intake is right for you, the visa process, or anything else, book a free 20-minute call with our team: