A New Life in Italy

Samantha Wilson

A NEW LIFE IN ITALY – THE PODCAST THAT takes you behind the scenes of what it's really like to move and live in Italy and shows you how starting a new life in the bel Paese is possible for you. This weekly podcast is hosted by Samantha Wilson, Italy’s top relocation expert and chief dream maker at Smart Move Italy is for anyone who dreams of adopting the Italian lifestyle, no matter where you are in the process. Tune in every week for some inspiration, and super “ah-ha” moments, and learn how you can live longer, spend less, and smile more in your new life in Italy. read less
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Episodes

S2: EP 6 The Truth About Italy's Elective Residency Visa: Qualifications and Financial Requirements
Yesterday
S2: EP 6 The Truth About Italy's Elective Residency Visa: Qualifications and Financial Requirements
Ciao, friends!In today's episode, I am tackling the intricacies of the Elective Residency Visa (ERV), a topic that's both my specialty and a common source of confusion for many aspiring expats.The ERV is Italy's invitation to those who can support themselves without working in the country. It's perfect for retirees or anyone with a steady stream of passive income. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it's certainly not for those looking to work or start a business in Italy.I focus on two major qualifications for the ERV: securing a residential address in Italy and meeting the financial requirements. Finding a rental can be a challenge due to Italy's tenant-friendly laws, so I recommend starting your search two to three months before your planned move and considering the help of a rental agency.When it comes to finances, the key term is "substantial passive income." While consulates often state a minimum of 32,000 euros per person annually, I've found that aiming for over 45,000 euros net per person per year is a safer bet for approval. Remember, passive income should be regular, reliable, and guaranteed—think pensions and investment income, not savings or 401ks.A well-crafted cover letter is your secret weapon. It should convey your preparedness for the move, your understanding of immigration obligations, and your financial stability. And if you don't qualify for the ERV, don't lose hope—there are other visas, like the investor visa, that might be a better fit.If you're on the fence about applying, I say go for it. Even if you're denied, you can always reapply if your situation improves. Just make sure you have a Plan B and don't make any irreversible decisions until your visa is approved.For those who need assistance, my team and I are here to help at www.SmartMoveItaly.com/ervassistance. Whether you're looking for community support, application reviews, or full-service guidance, we've got you covered.Remember, life is about taking chances. If you meet the minimum requirements and present a strong application, you owe it to yourself to try for the ERV. You never know—it could be the key to unlocking your dream life in Italy.Until next time, keep dreaming of your new life in Italy, and don't hesitate to reach out with your questions. Ciao for now!Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. To rate, scroll to the top tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website
S2: EP 5 La Dolce Lingua:  Boosting Confidence in Your Language Journey
Mar 20 2024
S2: EP 5 La Dolce Lingua: Boosting Confidence in Your Language Journey
Have you ever felt like a complete idiot when you try to speak Italian? Made a mistake and were quickly (or aggressively) corrected, causing you to feel like you will never succeed?Learning a new language is difficult and there are common struggles learners face, such as feeling like an outsider, embarrassment, and the feeling of defeat. But making errors is a natural part of the language learning process and it's important to keep speaking and moving forward despite them.My special guest, Margherita Berti, from Italian Matters, an Italian language teacher with a PhD in languages, joins us to offer her expertise. Margherita provides valuable insights into the language learning journey, highlighting the importance of immersion, realistic expectations, and the understanding that fluency comes with time and practice.I wrap up the episode by answering listener questions, covering topics such as the renewal process for the elective residency visa, the tax implications of receiving social security disability as an Italian dual citizen, and eligibility for Italy's 7% tax incentive for pensioners.Ciao for now!Special Guest: Margherita Berti from Italian MattersRate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. To rate, scroll to the top tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website
S2: EP 4 Living La Dolce Vita in Sicily: A Taste of Tradition
Mar 13 2024
S2: EP 4 Living La Dolce Vita in Sicily: A Taste of Tradition
In our latest episode of "A New Life in Italy," we dove into the mesmerizing world of Sicily and explored the phenomenon known as Stendhal syndrome, which is considered only found in Florence - but my episode happened in Sicily!What is the Stendhal syndrome? It's the euphoric feeling that can make your heart race and knees weak when faced with profound beauty. I remember my own experience in Sicily, where the stunning Piazza Duomo in Ortigia left me speechless and teary-eyed, a moment that sparked my deep fascination with the island.As we ventured further into the Sicilian charm, I invited my friend Annalisa Pompeo, a true Sicilian who embodies the island's culture and hospitality. Annalisa, the founder of Go Sicily, shared her insights into the Sicilian way of life, from the rich culinary traditions to the slow-paced, relationship-focused lifestyle that makes Sicily a unique place to live.We discussed the cost of living, safety, and how Sicilians feel about foreigners moving in. Annalisa painted a picture of a life where quality is valued over speed, where a walk on the beach or a coffee with a friend is just as important as any business meeting.Food, of course, was a central theme, and Annalisa took us on a mouthwatering journey through Sicilian cuisine. She explained the influence of various cultures on the island's food and even shared the secret to the perfect canolo – it's all about the crunch!Lastly, we tackled some listener questions about moving to Italy, from the practicalities of driving with a foreign license to the intricacies of claiming Italian citizenship through ancestry.So, whether you're considering a move to Italy or just looking to reconnect with your roots, Sicily might just be the place for you. And remember, if you're a foodie, you're already halfway to packing your bags for this Mediterranean gem. Don't forget to check out the show notes for all the resources and links mentioned in the episode.Until next time, keep dreaming of your new life in Italy, and maybe I'll see you in Sicily, where the art, the sea, and the cannoli are calling your name. Ciao for now!How to reach me: www.smartmoveitaly.com Email: ciao@smartmoveitaly.com MY GUESTAnnalisa Pompeo and Go-SicilyAnnalisa Instagram Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. To rate, click here, scroll to the top, tap REVIEW with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:
S2: EP 3 Savoring Italy's Culinary Charm – A Veggie, Vegan, and Celiac Guide for Gastronomic Bliss!
Mar 6 2024
S2: EP 3 Savoring Italy's Culinary Charm – A Veggie, Vegan, and Celiac Guide for Gastronomic Bliss!
Hey there, dreamers and foodies! It's your host, Samantha Wilson, back with another episode of "A New Life in Italy." This week, we're diving into a topic that's close to my heart (and stomach) – living with dietary restrictions in Italy. As a reluctant vegetarian myself, I get the struggle of drooling over dishes you can't indulge in. But fear not, my fellow food-sensitive friends, Italy's culinary scene has got us covered!In this episode, I share my personal journey of giving up meat due to health issues and how I navigate the tantalizing trattorias of Tuscany. I reminisce about the mouthwateringBistecca alla fiorentina and the grilled chicken that haunts my vegetarian dreams. But it's not all about what I can't eat – I also rave about the seasonal delights like wild asparagus that make Italian cuisine a veggie lover's paradise.We then explore how Italy caters to various dietary needs, whether you're vegetarian, vegan, celiac, or have other food restrictions. I bring in the expertise of Catalin Varela, a gluten-free travel consultant and the voice behind "Celiac in Italy." She shares her insights on living with celiac disease in the land of pasta and pizza, and how Italy is surprisingly accommodating.Catalin and I discuss the importance of food in Italian culture and how it's about sharing and connecting. She offers tips on finding gluten-free options, from certified restaurants to specialized grocery stores. Plus, she talks about her services that help celiacs navigate Italian cuisine without missing out on the experience.To wrap things up, I answer some of your burning questions about moving to Italy. From finding trustworthy contractors in Arezzo to the reality behind those one-euro homes and relocation incentives, I've got the scoop to help you make informed decisions.So, whether you're planning a move or just dreaming of Italian feasts, tune in to this episode for a hearty serving of advice and anecdotes. And remember, dietary restrictions don't have to limit your love for Italian food – they might just introduce you to new favorites!Until next time, keep dreaming and savoring every bite of life, no matter what's on your plate. Ciao for now!Visit me at Smart Move Italy Follow me on Instagram My Guest This Week:Catalin Varela WebsiteCeliacs in Italy Instagram Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. To rate, click here, scroll to the top, tap REVIEW with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an
S2: EP 1 Culture Shock: Fitting Into Your New Life and Overcoming Lonliness
Mar 1 2024
S2: EP 1 Culture Shock: Fitting Into Your New Life and Overcoming Lonliness
Hey there, dreamers! It's Samantha Wilson here and I've just wrapped up another episode of our podcast, "A New Life in Italy." This week, we took a deep dive into the emotional rollercoaster that comes with relocating to the sunny climes of Italy.In this episode, I shared a bit about my own journey, from the dreary days in Vancouver that led me to seek out the Italian sun, to the mental health challenges that can arise when you're settling into a new culture. It's a topic close to my heart, and I wanted to bring it to the forefront because, let's face it, moving countries is no small feat!I was thrilled to have Camilla Jackson, a trained behavioral therapist with nearly two decades of experience, join us. She's been a rockstar within our New Life in Italy membership, helping expats navigate the cultural shifts and the emotional ups and downs that come with such a big life change.We chatted about everything from the importance of setting realistic expectations to the power of finding your tribe in a new country. Camilla offered some fantastic advice on how to integrate into Italian society, like making a daily visit to the same coffee shop to build a local community and the benefits of learning the language through fun methods like watching Italian cartoons.And, of course, we couldn't forget about our listener questions! We tackled queries on gaining Italian citizenship through residency, applying for the national healthcare system, and the legalities of paying cash for large ticket items in Italy.So, if you're considering a move to Italy or you're already here trying to make sense of it all, this episode is for you. We're here to remind you that it's okay to feel a mix of emotions and that with a little bit of patience, a sprinkle of humor, and a whole lot of gelato, you'll find your way.Remember to check out the show notes for all the resources and links we talked about, and tune in next week when we'll be discussing sustainable travel in Italy. Until then, keep embracing the journey, and ciao for now!Where to find me www.smartmoveitaly.comWrite me: ciao@smartmoveitaly.comSubscribe to my newsletter www.smartmoveitaly.com/perte MY GUESTMy Guest this week was Behavioral Therapist Camilla Jackson.Contact Camilla Jackson at www.loving-you.online Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. To rate, click here, scroll to the top, tap REVIEW with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo!Mentioned in this episode:
S2: EP 2 My Favorite Visa: And Why It May Be Your Key to Italy
Mar 1 2024
S2: EP 2 My Favorite Visa: And Why It May Be Your Key to Italy
Hey there, dreamers and doers! It's your go-to guide for all things Italian,we are back with another episode of "A New Life in Italy." This week, we dove deep into the golden opportunity that is the Italian Investor Visa. If you've been fantasizing about sipping espresso in a quaint piazza or exploring the rolling hills of Tuscany, but you're not quite ready to retire or don't have that sweet passive income that you need for an ERV, then perk up your ears because this episode is for you!The Italian version of the Investor Visa, also known as the Golden Visa, is Italy's best-kept secret for those looking to extend their stay or work in Italy without the strings of residency or retirement. I broke down the nitty-gritty details, from the investment options (hello, 250,000 euros in an innovative startup or 500,000 euros in an established company) to the perks of this visa, like bringing your family along, working in Italy, and not being tied down to a specific residency period.But wait, there's more! We also tackled the process and timeline, so you can plan your move without the guesswork. And for those of you wondering about the risks, I covered what happens if your investment goes south (spoiler: it's not as scary as you think).To wrap things up, I answered some burning listener questions about the Elective Residency Visa, working remotely (spoiler: it's a no-go), and the ins and outs of driving in Italy with a foreign license.So, if you're itching to make Italy your new playground and think my favorite Visa is right for you, head over to smartmoveitaly.com/investorvisa for the full scoop. And remember, whether you're looking to stay for a year or a lifetime, I'm here to help you navigate the journey to your Italian dream. Ciao for now, and I'll catch you next week for more insider tips on "A New Life in Italy." Don't forget to rate and review if you loved the episode – every little bit helps us spread the love for Italy!Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website
A New Life in Italy Relaunch March 2024
Feb 25 2024
A New Life in Italy Relaunch March 2024
What if you could make a few changes to your lifestyle that include eating delicious food, taking long lazy walks in the sunshine, making new friends, starting new hobbies, and finally doing those things you never have time to do?What if you could wake up in the morning and for the price of a Starbucks, you can take off to a sunkissed Mediterranean island and spend the day wandering through thousand-year-old streets and churches filled with art from the masters? What if you could leave your fast-paced, stress-packed lifestyle, get rid of all of the things that are weighing you down, and pack up and move to Italy - not just for a few weeks, but forever? Would you do it?Do you know how?I do, because I've done it, and starting Thursday, March 1st I'm going to show you how.No more falling down a Google rabbit hole filled with misinformation, no more pseudo experts leading you down the garden path, you can plan, prepare, and make the move to Italy and live the life that you know you’re meant to live, with my help.My new podcast A New Life in Italy is a weekly show and is for anyone who dreams of living the Italian lifestyle, no matter where you are in the process.  Whether you’re wondering if Italy is right for you, are actively pursuing your citizenship or visa, or are already here but feeling a little lost,  there is something right here for everyone.From early learning and planning to those who have packed up and are heading to the tarmac, you are going to learn something here.I share my own experiences of moving myself and my family to Italy a decade ago, and inspiring stories of those that I have helped make the move and who are now living their best lives.I'm also going to introduce you to some of the fascinating people who make up the fabric of Italian life and culture and who can help bring you closer to what makes your heart beat a little faster.Each week, I'm also going to answer your questions about practical things, like taxes, visas, buying, renting, citizenship, and how to scale the famous Italian bureaucratic wall.  But that's not all, because we’re also going to talk about being a foreigner in a new country and how that can impact your friends, relationships, and confidence.My Name is Samantha Wilson and I am the chief dream maker of Italy’s #1 relocation company Smart Move Italy, and have helped thousands of people pack up and make the move to Italy themselves.I believe that living your best life does not mean subscribing to the whole hustle and bustle culture to find the freedom to live the life you want and that priorities have somehow shifted over the years, and it's time to move them back to what matters.  Health, happiness, connection to others, and of course a warm culture, amazing people, and delicious food - that is only found in Italy.So if you dream of living a happier, healthier, and more purposeful life, and feel connected to the Italian culture, lifestyle, and passion, then A New Life in Italy is possible for you.  The only question is, are you ready?If so, then get ready for the relaunch of A New Life in Italy Podcast, for Italy-loving dreamers and doers, Launching March 2024. Find me at Sentire Media and wherever you get your podcasts.Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website