Some confusion exists over the “how to’s, where to’s and why’s” of relocation. Having been looking into this matter for the past few months, here’s what we’ve found.

Basically, for anyone relocating from the UK, this is the ‘usual’ chain of events. I say usual, because procedures / processes can vary from region to region, though follow this and you won’t go far wrong. Some of the ’stages’ are not directly ‘linked’, but are still a recommended step by step guide.

NHS Cover > E111 > Permesso / Carta di Soggiorno > Codice Fiscale > Health Authority Registration > Doctor Registration

NHS Cover - All UK citizens are part of the ‘National Health Service’ and you should be in possession of your ‘National Health Service’ Number.

E111 - This form entitles UK citizens to emergency health cover whilst travelling through European Member States. You can download the form and further details here … Applying for an E111. Generally the E111, when ’stamped’ by your local UK Post Office, only covers for Emergency Treatment whilst ‘travelling through’ Europe, however, you can send the completed form to ‘The Department of Work & Pensions’ prior to your leaving, they will then register your ‘move’ and return the authorised form. If you’re ‘cutting things fine’, it’s probably best to use two forms. Send one to ‘The Department of Work & Pensions’, with a reply address of a friend or family member in the UK and have one stamped at your postoffice. You can then at least have something to take with you should you not receive the completed form back prior to your travelling.

The E111 is only valid until the 31st December 2005, after which time all UK citizens should have received their European Health Insurance Card. This card will be sent to the address listed on your E111 application.

Permesso / Carta di Soggiorno (Permit to Stay) - Within 8 days of your arrival in Italy, you must register with your local Police Station. You will need to produce your UK Passport (valid for at least 3 months), four passport sized photo’s, your authorised E111, details of your address in Italy (Deeds or Rental Agreement) and Bank Statements showing you have ‘Independent Means’, currently, at least 5000 Euros. You’ll also need to purchase a ‘Marca da bollo’, this is an ‘official stamp’ available from any tobacconist’s shop. The Carta di Soggiorno is normally valid for 5 years.

Codice Fiscale - It is possible to arrange your Codice Fiscale prior to leaving for Italy, in this case contact the Italian Consulate in London. To arrange it once in Italy you need to visit your local Tax Office, normally situated in the Capital of your Province. You’ll need to produce your passport, marriage certificate (if applicable) and birth certificates.

Health Authority Registration - Once you have received your Residence Permit, you may then register with your Local Health Authority (L’Unita Sanitaria Locale or USL) at which time you will be provided with a ‘National Health Number’.

Doctor Registration - Finally, you must register with the local doctor. Presenting your Italian National Health Number will allow you to be registered and receive treatment.

Being at the very ‘first step’ of our own relocation. We’d like to hear about your own experiences regarding the ‘process’ … all views and opinions gratefully accepted!