Moving to Italy from the UK: The Complete Guide by Reloux
- reloux®-GB
- Nov 7
- 16 min read
Moving to Italy from the UK is an exciting chapter — whether you’re relocating for work, family, retirement, or the irresistible Italian lifestyle. At Reloux®, we understand that international removals to Italy are not just about transporting furniture; they’re about starting a new life with peace of mind. This complete guide will help you understand everything from visas and customs to moving costs, logistics, and everyday life in Italy after Brexit.
Moving to Italy from the UK — Where Passion Meets Practicality
Moving to Italy from the UK is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. With its rich culture, Mediterranean climate, world-class food, and relaxed pace of life, Italy attracts thousands of British citizens every year. But after Brexit, moving to Italy now involves a few extra administrative steps — from visa applications to customs documentation.
At Reloux®, we simplify every part of your removals to Italy journey. From initial video surveys and volume assessments to safe packing, customs clearance, and final delivery, our dedicated relocation specialists ensure your move runs smoothly from start to finish.
Our team handles everything — whether you’re shipping a few boxes to Milan, relocating your entire household to Rome, or managing international removals to Italy for your family’s new life in Tuscany.
We’re more than just movers. Reloux® is your relocation partner, offering expertise in customs documentation, insurance, and even settling-in guidance once your belongings arrive.
Why Move to Italy from the UK?
The allure of relocating to Italy from the UK goes beyond sun and scenery. It’s about lifestyle, values, and opportunity. Italy offers:
Affordable living compared to the UK in many regions
Excellent public healthcare (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale)
High-quality education and international schools
Exceptional food, culture, and architecture
Easy access to wider Europe
Whether you’re moving to Italy after Brexit for a new career, to retire under the Tuscan sun, or to immerse yourself in Italian heritage, Reloux® makes sure the logistics never stand in your way.
How to Move to Italy from the UK — The Reloux® Way
Planning a move to Italy from the UK is exciting but requires preparation. Reloux® recommends this simple step-by-step approach:
Book a free video survey. Our experts calculate your shipment volume and provide a detailed quote.
Confirm your move date. We handle your packing and collection anywhere in the UK.
Choose your service: full-load or part-load (groupage removals to Italy) depending on your volume and flexibility.
Prepare customs documentation — including Transfer of Residence, ID, and inventory list.
We transport your goods via road, sea, or air, depending on urgency and budget.
Delivery & unpacking at your new home anywhere in Italy, with optional reassembly and debris removal.
This streamlined process ensures your UK to Italy removals are efficient, fully insured, and stress-free.
Visas and Residency: Moving to Italy After Brexit
One of the most common questions we receive at Reloux® is about visas and residency. Moving to Italy after Brexit means British citizens are now considered non-EU nationals, requiring a visa or residency permit depending on the length and purpose of stay.
Do British citizens still need a visa to move to Italy after Brexit?
Yes. UK nationals need a visa to live, work, or study in Italy for more than 90 days.
What types of long-stay visas can you apply for?
When moving to Italy from the UK, you can apply for:
Work Visa: For employment or self-employment
Elective Residence Visa: For retirees or those with independent income
Family Reunification Visa: For joining relatives living legally in Italy
Study Visa: For attending Italian universities or courses
Where do I apply for an Italian visa from the UK?
You must apply through your nearest Italian consulate:
London (for England & Wales)
Manchester (for the North & Midlands)
Edinburgh (for Scotland & Northern Ireland)
Documents required for the Italian visa application
When preparing to move to Italy from the UK, you’ll typically need:
Valid passport (6+ months)
Passport-sized photos
Proof of income or employment
Proof of accommodation in Italy
Health insurance valid in the EU
Completed visa form
Residency and Permesso di Soggiorno (Residence Permit)
After you arrive, Reloux® recommends applying for your permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 working days of arrival. You’ll receive a receipt that serves as temporary proof until your residence card is issued.
How long does it take to receive the residence permit?
It typically takes 6–12 weeks depending on your local Questura (police office).
Documents required for permesso di soggiorno:
Passport and visa
Proof of income and accommodation
Health insurance
Passport photos
Application form (available at local post offices)
Once issued, you’ll be registered as a resident in Italy and can enjoy healthcare, taxation rights, and all local benefits — a key step when relocating to Italy from the UK.
Reloux® and Your Transfer of Residence (ToR)
When shipping from Italy from to UK, it’s crucial to understand the Transfer of Residence (ToR) process, especially after Brexit. This customs exemption allows you to move your personal belongings tax-free if you’re relocating permanently.
To qualify, you must have lived outside UK for at least 12 consecutive months, and the items you import must be for personal use, not resale.
If the ToR is not granted, import VAT may be charged on your goods — something our customs team helps you avoid.
Reloux® provides full assistance with your ToR application, including inventory verification, declarations, and communication with Italian customs authorities.
Italy Import Rules and Required Documents for for Moving to Italy from the UK
When planning removals to Italy from the UK, customs clearance and documentation are crucial to ensure your belongings arrive safely and without delays. At Reloux®, we manage the entire process for you — from preparing your paperwork to liaising with Italian customs officials. Whether you’re using a dedicated truck, groupage service, or full container shipping, we make sure your move to Italy from the UK is seamless.
(Prepared and simplified by Reloux® International Moving Company)
When importing household goods and personal effects into Italy, customs authorities require specific documentation depending on the import category. Below is a breakdown of the rules and documents needed for each type of import.
1. Duty-Free Imports (Transfer of Residence / Returning Citizens)
To qualify for duty- and tax-free import of personal belongings, the shipper must:
Have lived outside the European Union for at least 12 consecutive months before returning to or establishing residence in Italy.
Be taking up residence in Italy within 12 months of shipment arrival.
Ensure all items have been personally owned and used for at least 6 months before shipping.
Confirm all items are for personal use only, not for sale or commercial purposes.
Documents Required
Copy of passport (photo page only)
Copy of Codice Fiscale card (Italian tax code / Tessera Sanitaria)
Repatriation letter from the Italian Consulate in the UK or an email from the Italian Town Hall confirming application for residence
Detailed packing list or inventory in Italian and English
Self-declaration form (Reloux® will provide) with dates of residence abroad and date of return to Italy
Note: Duty-free entry is not permitted if the shipper has lived in the EU for less than 12 months or intends to maintain residence outside Italy.
2. Imports with Duty and Tax Payable
Customs duty and VAT will apply if:
The shipper has not lived outside the EU for more than 12 months.
The goods are new or accompanied by a commercial invoice.
The goods are imported for commercial use.
Documents Required
Passport copy
Codice Fiscale
Packing list / inventory
Proof of payment for duty and VAT (must be provided 3–5 days before scheduled truck departure)
3. Diplomatic Removals to Italy Imports
Diplomatic staff accredited in Italy can import goods duty- and tax-free if their diplomatic status is valid.
Documents Required
Passport copy
Codice Fiscale or Tessera Sanitaria
Import exemption request issued by the Embassy or diplomatic mission, including:
Importer’s full details
Description and value of goods
Italian residence address
Alternatively, Form Mod.180 issued by the Embassy to the customs broker
4. Inheritance Imports Removals to Italy
Goods forming part of an inheritance can be imported into Italy tax- and duty-free, provided the ownership is legally transferred.
Documents Required
Passport of beneficiary
Codice Fiscale of beneficiary
Copy of the Will or Testament showing the goods received match the inventory
Deed of Succession (Dichiarazione di Successione) signed by a Notary
Death certificate
Packing list with declared values
If the Deed of Succession is not yet available, customs clearance must wait until it is issued.
5. Student Imports for Moving to Italy
Students moving to Italy for studies may import personal belongings duty-free if they can prove enrolment in an Italian school or university.
Documents Required
Passport copy
Codice Fiscale
Packing list / inventory
Letter of approval or enrolment certificate from the Italian college/university
6. Commercial Imports Removals to Italy
When importing goods for business or resale, standard import taxes and duties apply.
Documents Required
Exporter’s EORI number
Importer’s VAT number
Commercial invoice or purchase receipt
Packing list / inventory
Any applicable export licences (e.g. for artwork or antiques)
Additional Notes
All import documents must be received by Reloux® at least 5–7 days before the scheduled truck departure date.
For duty- or tax-payable shipments, proof of payment must be submitted 3–5 days before departure.
The Codice Fiscale is mandatory — without it, customs clearance in Italy is impossible. It can be obtained via the Italian Consulate or online through the Agenzia delle Entrate website.
Summary Table
Import Type | Duty/Tax | Main Documents Required |
Transfer of Residence | ❌ No and ✅ Yes | Passport, Codice Fiscale, Repatriation Letter, Inventory |
Commercial | ✅ Yes | Passport, EORI, VAT No., Invoice, Inventory |
Diplomatic | ❌ No | Embassy Exemption or Mod.180, Passport |
Inheritance | ❌ No | Will, Deed of Succession, Death Certificate |
Student | ❌ No | Enrolment Letter, Passport, Codice Fiscale |
Reloux® Advice
At Reloux®, we ensure every client moving or shipping to Italy has the correct paperwork to avoid costly delays or import taxes. Our customs team works closely with Italian brokers and authorities to guarantee smooth clearance under the appropriate category — whether you’re a returning citizen, student, or relocating family.
Shipping Furniture to Italy from the UK
One of our most common requests at Reloux® involves shipping furniture to Italy from the UK. Whether you’re sending designer pieces to Milan or antique furniture to a villa in Florence, we provide tailored transport solutions for every household.
Our services include:
Full export wrapping of furniture and fragile goods
Custom crating for artworks, pianos, or glass
Professional dismantling and reassembly
Temperature-controlled and secure transport if required
Your UK to Italy removals can be transported via road freight, sea freight, or air freight — depending on your schedule and budget.
Transport Options — Road, Sea, and Air
1. Road Freight (Most Popular)
The majority of removals to Italy from the UK go by road. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and door-to-door. Transit time is usually 5–10 days, depending on location and whether you choose a full or part load.
Reloux® offers:
Dedicated truck for full household moves
Groupage (shared-load) services for smaller shipments
Weekly departures from London, Manchester, and Birmingham
2. Sea Freight
For larger or long-distance relocations, shipping to Italy from the UK via container can be ideal.
20ft containers: up to 31 m³ (1–2 bedrooms)
40ft containers: up to 62 m³ (3–5 bedrooms)Transit time: typically 2–3 weeks, depending on port schedules.
Sea freight is often more affordable for high-volume moves, though it requires extra time for customs clearance.
3. Air Freight
The fastest but most expensive option. Suitable for urgent consignments or valuable personal items. Delivery can take 3–7 days, depending on flight schedules and customs inspections.
Full Load vs Part Load Removals to Italy
At Reloux®, clients often ask the difference between a full-load and part-load move when
planning removals to Italy from the UK.
Full Load (Dedicated Service):
Your belongings fill an entire truck or container.
Fastest option with direct delivery.
Ideal for families or large properties.
Part Load (Groupage Service):
You share transport with other customers.
More economical, but delivery may take longer.
Perfect for small moves or flexible timelines.
Choosing the right option depends on your volume, timeline, and budget — all of which our consultants help you determine during your pre-move survey.
Average Cost of Moving to Italy from the UK
The cost of moving to Italy from the UK varies depending on several key factors:
Total volume of goods (measured in cubic metres)
Collection and delivery locations
Access conditions (stairs, lifts, parking restrictions)
Packing and insurance options
Customs clearance requirements
Estimated Guide Prices (Door to Door):
Property Size | Approx. Volume | Estimated Cost |
Studio / 1 Bed | 5–12 m³ | £1,400 – £2,100 |
2 Bedroom | 15–25 m³ | £2,500 – £3,800 |
3 Bedroom | 30–40 m³ | £3,900 – £5,500 |
4–5 Bedroom | 45–65 m³ | £5,500 – £7,500 |
These are average prices for UK to Italy removals by road with full packing, delivery, and customs clearance included. For smaller shipments, Reloux®’s part-load service offers a cheaper alternative.
Factors Affecting International Moving Costs
When comparing international moving companies to Italy, it’s important to understand what influences pricing:
Volume (m³) – The total cubic metres determine your transport cost.
Distance & Access – Hard-to-reach locations or restricted zones in cities like Florence or Rome can add costs.
Packing Service – Full export wrapping adds protection but increases time and labour.
Insurance Cover – Optional comprehensive insurance based on declared values.
Timing & Seasonality – Summer months and year-end periods are busier, so early booking helps reduce costs.
Cheap Removals to Italy — Without Compromise
It’s possible to find cheap removals to Italy while still maintaining quality and reliability — if you choose wisely. Some online brokers act as middlemen, inflating costs and subcontracting to unknown carriers.
With Reloux®, you work directly with our team from start to finish. We own our vehicles, manage customs internally, and maintain full control over your shipment. This means transparent pricing, insured transport, and real accountability.
Our part-load removals to Italy are especially cost-efficient, as we consolidate shipments weekly across Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, and Naples routes.
Timeframes for Delivery
Transit time for moving to Italy from the UK depends on the service chosen:
Full-load road removal: 4–7 days
Part-load removal: 7–21 days (subject to scheduling)
Sea freight: 2–4 weeks
Air freight: 3–7 days
Reloux® provides regular updates throughout the journey so you know exactly when to expect your goods.
Storage and Flexible Delivery Options
If your property in Italy isn’t ready, Reloux® offers storage-in-transit options in both the UK and Italy.We can hold your goods securely in our climate-controlled warehouses and deliver them once your residence is ready.
This service is especially useful when planning relocation services UK to Italy that involve property completion or rental delays.
Vehicle and Special Item Transport
Need to bring your car, piano, or artwork? No problem. Reloux® provides specialised international movers to Italy services for:
Motorbikes and cars (with registration support)
Pianos and musical instruments
Fine art and antiques (temperature-controlled)
Office relocations and IT equipment
Every special item is custom-packed, insured, and transported according to international standards.
Summary of Moving Costs and Options
When calculating the cost of moving to Italy from the UK, always consider:
Transit time vs budget balance
Volume efficiency
Storage and insurance
Customs assistance included in the quote
At Reloux®, every client receives a transparent, all-inclusive estimate — no hidden extras, no surprise charges, and full clarity from booking to delivery.
Life in Italy, Residency, Costs of Living, and Relocation FAQs
When you’re moving to Italy from the UK, the logistics are just one part of the story. Understanding everyday life, taxes, healthcare, and paperwork helps you feel settled faster and avoid surprises. At Reloux®, we guide clients through not only the move itself but also the practicalities of relocating to Italy from the UK — making your transition smooth, informed, and stress-free.
Living in Italy — A British Expat’s Dream
Moving to Italy brings a perfect blend of culture, sunshine, and slower living. British expats often choose Tuscany, Lombardy, Lazio, or Puglia for the balance of lifestyle and affordability. Smaller towns such as Lucca, Verona, or Bari offer charm, great food, and a sense of community without the high cost of Rome or Milan.
The cost of living varies by region. Groceries and local produce are typically cheaper than in the UK, while imported goods and city-centre rents can be higher. Eating out remains affordable — especially with the Italian “pranzo” (lunch menu) tradition.
Utilities, fuel, and internet costs are similar to those in the UK, though heating expenses can rise in northern Italy during winter.
Cost of Living Comparison (Italy vs UK)
Category | UK Average | Italy Average |
Rent (2-bed flat, city centre) | £1,400 | £950 |
Utilities (monthly) | £220 | £180 |
Groceries (monthly) | £300 | £260 |
Meal for 2 (restaurant) | £60 | £45 |
Monthly public transport pass | £70 | £40 |
This shows why moving to Italy from the UK often appeals to those seeking a better work–life balance and lower daily expenses.
Banking and Finances When You Move to Italy
When relocating to Italy from the UK, opening a bank account is essential. You’ll need:
Proof of identity (passport)
Italian tax code (codice fiscale)
Proof of address (rental contract or residence certificate)
Residence permit (if already obtained)
You can usually open a basic account (conto corrente) at most Italian banks or online providers like Fineco, Unicredit, or Intesa Sanpaolo.
Can you keep your UK bank account?Yes — most UK banks allow you to maintain your account, but some may limit access if you change residency. Always inform your bank of your relocation to avoid account freezes.
Healthcare in Italy for UK Citizens
The Italian public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale – SSN) offers excellent quality, but to access it you need to register as a resident and obtain a health card (tessera sanitaria).
When you’re moving to Italy after Brexit, you’ll initially need private health insurance to apply for a visa. Once you hold residency, you can register for public healthcare by providing:
Your residence permit (permesso di soggiorno)
Passport
Codice fiscale
Proof of address
Private insurance remains an option for expats who prefer faster access to private clinics, particularly in large cities.
Education and Family Life
Education in Italy is free and mandatory between the ages of 6 and 16. Families moving to
Italy from the UK can enrol children in public schools, which are well-funded and community-focused.
There are also bilingual and international schools across Rome, Milan, Florence, and Turin, following British or IB curriculums — ideal for expat families.
Driving and Vehicles
You can drive in Italy using your UK licence for up to 12 months after relocating. After that, you must exchange it for an Italian licence. If you bring your UK-registered car, it must be registered and insured in Italy once residency is established.
Reloux® can assist in coordinating shipping to Italy from the UK for vehicles, including customs clearance and delivery directly to your Italian address.
Bringing Pets to Italy
Moving your pets safely is as important as your own relocation. The rules for bringing a dog or cat when moving to Italy from the UK include:
Microchip
Valid rabies vaccination
Animal health certificate issued by an authorised vet
Travel within 10 days of certificate issue
Reloux® partners with pet relocation experts who handle all veterinary and travel documentation, ensuring your companion’s journey is as stress-free as yours.
Taxes and Residency in Italy
When Are You Considered a Tax Resident?
You’re considered a tax resident in Italy if:
You spend more than 183 days per year in Italy, or
Your main home or centre of interests is in Italy
Once tax resident, you’ll declare your global income in Italy.
Double Taxation Agreement
Thanks to the UK–Italy double taxation agreement, you won’t pay tax twice on the same income. Taxes paid in the UK are credited against your Italian liability.
Reloux® often connects clients with bilingual tax advisors who can assist with planning and compliance.
Notifying HMRC
Before relocating to Italy from the UK, inform HMRC using form P85 to confirm your departure. This ensures you’re taxed correctly in both countries.
Moving to Italy Checklist
Reloux®’s moving to Italy checklist helps ensure no details are missed:
Apply for the correct visa (work, elective residence, or family)
Gather documents for customs and Transfer of Residence
Book a video survey with Reloux®
Confirm your moving date and volume
Arrange travel and accommodation for arrival
Apply for permesso di soggiorno within 8 days
Register for codice fiscale (tax number)
Set up bank account, utilities, and healthcare registration
Update HMRC and UK banks
Explore your new neighbourhood — and enjoy your Italian life!
Frequently Asked Questions About Removals to Italy Reloux®
Do British citizens still need a visa to move to Italy after Brexit?
Yes — since Brexit, UK nationals require a visa for stays longer than 90 days. You’ll also need a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) once in Italy.
What visa options are available when moving to Italy from the UK?
Common options include work visas, elective residence (for retirees or self-funded individuals), family reunification, or study visas.
Which Italian consulate should I apply to for my visa?
Applications are submitted to the Italian consulates in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh based on where you live in the UK.
What documents do I need for a visa or residency permit?
A valid passport, photos, proof of accommodation and income, health insurance, and proof
of funds.
How long does it take to get a residence permit after arriving in Italy?
Usually between 6 and 12 weeks, depending on local authorities.
What is the Transfer of Residence (ToR)?
A customs exemption that allows you to import your personal belongings to Italy tax-free, provided you’ve lived in the UK for 12 months and are relocating permanently.
What happens if I don’t qualify for ToR?
If ToR is not approved, you’ll have to pay import VAT on your belongings (usually 22%).
Do I need to file customs declarations for my household goods?
Yes — Reloux® prepares all required customs paperwork for removals to Italy from the UK, ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.
Can I ship my car or motorcycle to Italy?
Yes, Reloux® offers secure transport for vehicles, including customs clearance and registration assistance.
Can I bring pets to Italy from the UK?
Yes, provided they are microchipped, vaccinated, and have the required animal health certificate.
How long does a removal to Italy take?
Delivery typically takes 5–10 days for full loads, and 7–21 days for part loads depending on scheduling and location.
Do you offer packing and unpacking services?
Yes — Reloux® provides full export packing and optional unpacking at destination for your convenience.
Do you handle storage if my property in Italy isn’t ready?
Absolutely — we offer short- and long-term storage solutions in both the UK and Italy.
Are UK educational qualifications recognised in Italy?
Yes, British degrees and certifications are generally recognised, especially under EU equivalence rules, though some professions require translation or validation.
Do you offer insurance for international moves to Italy?
Yes, basic liability is included, with optional comprehensive coverage for full peace of mind.
Can you help me move to rural areas or islands in Italy?
Yes — our network covers the entire country, including Sicily, Sardinia, and remote towns.
What’s the cheapest way to move to Italy?
Our shared Load, Part load removals to Italy are ideal for small or flexible moves. Sharing space with others reduces costs significantly without sacrificing quality.
Can I drive my own belongings to Italy?
Yes, but you’ll need to declare them at customs on arrival and may require additional paperwork. Using Reloux® ensures compliance and full insurance.
When will ETIAS travel authorisation apply for UK visitors?
ETIAS is expected to come into force in 2026 and will be required for short visits to Italy, not for relocations.
Why Choose Reloux® for Your Move to Italy
Reloux® is not just another international moving company to Italy — we are your trusted relocation partner. With experience in removals to Italy from the UK, our multilingual teams, customs experts, and professional crews ensure every stage of your move is handled with care.
Why clients choose Reloux®:
Weekly UK–Italy routes
Experienced customs and visa guidance
Door-to-door insured removals
Personal move manager
Optional storage and unpacking services
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Whether you’re shipping furniture to Italy from the UK, arranging cheap removals to Italy, or planning a full family relocation, we deliver reliability and personal attention that only an expert international mover can provide.
Move to Italy with Confidence
Your journey of moving to Italy from the UK should be exciting — not overwhelming. With Reloux®, every detail is covered, every document prepared, and every mile of your move handled by professionals who care.
From customs forms and international removals to Italy to unpacking your furniture in your new Italian home, Reloux® stands by you every step of the way.
Because at Reloux®, we don’t just move belongings — we move lives.
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