Italy is a country that has long attracted travelers with its beauty and lifestyle. Russians are no exception. Having visited the country at least once, many decide to move here for permanent residence. Italy has beautiful nature and wonderful climate. But there are also economic crises and other problems. Relocation to the country has its own characteristics. Therefore, before you go there, you should find out what life is like in Italy.
Salaries
The country is in the top 8 most developed countries in Europe. But even with this in mind, the standard of living of people here is lower than the pan-European one. The average household income is $ 25,000 a year. This is less compared to Europe, and the country has a noticeable social stratification. The average life expectancy in Italy is 83 years, which is largely determined by income.
The average salary is in the range of 1300-2500 euros. Income is determined by the region where people live. Even in developed provinces, there are salaries that differ markedly. For example, the Venetians get the highest income - 2500 euros. In Trento, this figure is 1950, in Milan - 1850, and in Verona - 1315. This difference depends on the prices of food, clothing, housing. As a rule, high income is where living is expensive.
To travel to the country, you must apply for a visa. It allows a person to legally be in the state. Tourist visa is issued for a stay in the country up to 3 months. If you plan to be there for more than 90 days, then you need to get a resident visa. If you wish to stay in Italy for permanent residence, a residence permit is issued. If there are all the necessary documents, then there will be no complaints against the citizen. You can learn more about paperwork at the embassy.
Costs
Life in Italy, although different, is still similar to that found in other European countries. Many Italians rent housing. Property value is determined by the region. Prices are higher in the north of the country and lower in the south.
A lot of people spend money on utility bills. Residents pay for electricity, heating, hot and cold water, and Internet. There is also a tax on TV and radio - about 110 euros per year. Italians spend ¼ annual income on housing. Prices for clothes are lower, and for products - higher than in many European countries.
Standard of living
The standard of living in Italy can be defined as average for Europe. In the country, 57% of citizens are employed. This figure is not as high as in some EU countries. The standard of living of the Italian population in each region differs depending on income.
If we take into account education, then 58% of citizens graduated from high school. Life expectancy in Italy is 83 years, which is higher compared to Europe. Locals are not entirely satisfied with many areas in the country.
Medical field
The country has free medicine, which is the pride of the country. There are services that are guaranteed by the state. These include:
- reception of therapists;
- treatment in hospitals;
- medicines;
- hospitalization;
- operations.
Health insurance can be used not only by those who have a working income, but also by everyone. The disadvantage of such a system is that they finance the sphere from the general fund, because of which a person belongs to a specific health insurance fund. This causes many bureaucratic difficulties. There are also paid medical services. Italian experts are perfectly performing the prevention of cancer, as well as treating older people.
Transport
Life in Italy is a little different when considering transportation issues. He does not go on schedule, as in many countries of Europe. Often there are strikes, which complicate the work of the metro, trams and trains.
The country has night buses that go to different points of Rome, Milan and other major cities. Traveling by train can be both expensive and cheap. In the latter case, the cost of tickets will be lower compared to Germany and France.
Nature
It is Italy that attracts many Russians. The way of life of people in this country is slightly different even because of nature. There are 4 seas in Italy: Adriatic, Ionian, Tyrrhenian and Ligurian. On the banks there are both picturesque cliffs and sandy beaches.
A significant part of the country is occupied by mountains - the Apennines and the Alps. In almost all areas of the country there is a Mediterranean climate, but in the northern part - alpine, in the south - arid. Winter is not very cold, but the snow does not melt on the tops of the mountains. In winter you can go skiing and swimming in the seas in summer.
Ecological situation
Life in Italy due to industry is not very favorable, because the air is polluted. Many waste from enterprises is in rivers. But the environmental situation in the country suits only 70% of people.
The government is constantly taking measures to protect nature. There are national parks, the budget pays for many environmental programs. The country complies with many agreements prohibiting the emission of harmful components into the atmosphere.
Mentality
The history of life in Italy begins from ancient times, and its ways always existed in it. An important value among Italians is considered a family. Only before the couple had many children, and now almost all couples give birth to no more than 2-3. Family values are important to them, so they are kind to their kids. Locals often like to arrange joint holidays.
Italians marry late - after 25 years, and finish their education for about 30 years. Because of this, people under 40 are called young people there. Representatives of this nation are cheerful and cheerful.
About food
The quality of life in Italy confirms the love of the inhabitants of this country for delicious food. Moreover, they constantly discuss this topic, for example, communicate about the quality of products.
The country has unwritten rules for eating. For example, lunch takes place between 12: 30-13: 30. Restaurants are closed at other times. Locals do not like it if someone sprinkles ketchup on pasta or orders pasta not as an independent dish.
Life enjoyment
Many people think that life in Italy is attractive for Russians. Reviews really confirm this. Many are attracted to a relaxed life in the country. Here people are in no hurry.
Italians cannot make decisions quickly. Many government organizations start work only from 9 a.m., and at 11 a coffee break occurs. At 2 p.m. many go home. Italians love to meet friends and family. Such a way of life is quite suitable for them, because it allows you to always be in a good mood. Well-spent time is important for locals, not material wealth.
Stereotypes
Russian life in Italy is far from ideal. People need to get used to the stereotypes that have developed in the country. Residents of the agricultural south and industrial north are not very fond of each other. Northerners demand recognition of independence. The inhabitants of their regions have their own labels, and if there was a meeting of 2 Italians, then each first determines which city his interlocutor is from.
Italians are proud of their history and culture. Many children are given names that are traditionally accepted in a particular territory. Residents of this country often do not speak other languages. Although English is also understood here, it will be more comfortable for a visitor with knowledge of Italian.
About the nation
Italians do not want to learn other languages, because they love their own. Also, many of them do not want to move to another city or country. Not only women, but most men in Italy dress very well, because they have a great taste.
Compared to other countries where they like comfortable rather than beautiful clothes, Italians never go out on the street casually. The opinion of others is important to them, so they carefully monitor their appearance.
Russians in Italy
Since there are a large number of Russian citizens in this country, many are interested in how the life of Russians in Italy goes. Over the years, a lot of people have moved here. Those who stayed in the country forever do not speak their native language. Not so many refugees moved to Italy as to other countries. This was also connected with economic crises, because of which people had to look for more prosperous territories for life.
Modern migrants usually move for family reasons and economic factors. Most migrants are women. Many of these people work and create families, not planning to move anywhere.
Where do Russians live?
Many believe that life in Italy is calm. Responses of immigrants also confirm this. Most Russians are happy with their life. Many people like the country because of its climate, beautiful nature. Russians live in the northern part of Italy - in Turin and Milan. Smaller groups of our compatriots have real estate in Abruzzo, Bari, Venice, Rome.
What is life in Italy for Russians? For them, there are various communities, for example, "Community". Many of the organizations work to preserve the Russian language and culture. Collaboration with the Russian Embassy is also supported. There are institutions that organize holidays for migrant children.
Italian Russian community
There are several sites and forums that serve to educate about the life of Russians in Italy. The following are popular:
- russianitaly.com;
- Italia-ru.com;
- mia-italia.com.
On these services there is information on practical issues: about work, buying products, dating. For children there are Russian schools. Over time, they may move to Italian schools to better understand the local language.
What do Russians work with?
What is life like for Russians in Italy? Reviews indicate that immigrants have to work in low-paying jobs. These include carers, nannies, taxi drivers, waiters, maids. For this kind of work, they usually pay around 1000 euros per month. Construction professions are also in demand: masons, finishing masters. Those with higher education can get a job in international companies. If you know languages, you can work as translators.
In principle, it is possible to get a good job for everyone in a country like Italy. The life of people there, however, as elsewhere, depends on the level of income. To get a position with high earnings, you need to know Italian, as well as own it at a conversational level. This also applies to unskilled professions. In this country, many Russians are engaged in entrepreneurship.
Senior Citizens in Italy
As in other developed countries, Italy has a funded pension system. This means that its size depends on contributions to funds. Since 2012, changes are in force. If a citizen retires early, the penalty is 1-2% of the payment.
Upon reaching the retirement age, the pension is paid in full. Since the life expectancy in the country is high, the government increases the age at which payments come. So, from 2017, retirement will begin at 66 years old.
Minimum pension
The standard of living in Italy differs from other countries. Here, retirees feel like full members of society. They are paid all the necessary benefits. Even if the citizen did not work, he has the right to receive a pension, for example, as a housewife. These women are paid from a special fund.
Minimum pensions are paid to those who did not have stable jobs and who did not pay quotas. Emigrants, including Russians, will receive an Italian pension, its size is determined depending on the length of service. Every foreigner is entitled to a social pension.
How do Russians and foreigners understand each other?
What are the features of living in Italy? It is not so easy for Russians to get used to the way of the country. The Italians are friendly people, but they have a lot of their stereotypes towards Russia. They are especially interested in the country's climate. Perhaps upon arrival, local residents will ask about the weather in Russia.
Italian homes in the north are cold. By law, the temperature in the room should be above 22 degrees. According to the results of the meeting, it is decided when the heating will work. It’s hard for Russians to get used to many of the Italians ’rules that are always late.
Bureaucracy
In this country, bureaucracy is worse than in some other states, but it does not bother local residents. They are ready to stand in lines, attend one organization after another. Some documents, for example, a residence permit, have to wait for many years.
Although the Russians are also used to bureaucracy, nevertheless, the slowness of people in Italy can irritate them. Other rules of life also differ. For example, there are no convenience stores in the country.
Studying local dialects
The literary language is known to all citizens of the country, but since childhood they communicate in their native dialect. When Russians move to Italy for permanent residence, they need to learn not only the literary language, but also local dialects. By the way, speakers with an accent are considered foreigners. In Italian families they usually speak a dialect.
Communication Features
Communication to Russians may seem theatrical. Italians gesticulate a lot, say a lot of words and compliments. They also adopted mutual kisses and hugs. For them, this is considered a normal tradition.
Almost everyone who moved to Italy for permanent residence believes that it is impossible to lose touch with Russia. No matter how much money you earn and how good it is to speak the local language, Russians always stand out. But no one wants to come back, because in the country you can find a prestigious job, especially for those who have higher education. Also, many are satisfied with the way of life. Therefore, many of those who moved to Italy, most often come to Russia for a while or to visit relatives, and then again rush to their usual country.
Average prices for products are not very high in comparison with pan-European ones, as are utility payments. Renting a property, of course, is more expensive here, but it all depends on the location. Food prices here are high compared to Russia, but, of course, the food is of better quality. Utilities are higher than domestic ones, but salaries and pensions cannot be compared with Russian ones. It is because of the high incomes that many people decide to move.
Who can go to Italy?
Although the country has not very high incomes in comparison with other European countries that are more prosperous in this regard, many Russians, Ukrainians and Belarusians come to this country for permanent residence. Moreover, for this you do not need to renounce your citizenship. To stay in the country for a long period, you must meet one of the following requirements:
- relocation for family reunification;
- foundation of your business;
- employment;
- the presence of real estate.
If at least one condition is met, there is the opportunity to immigrate to Italy. After moving you need to master life in the country. In Italy, you can get a job in a specialty, as well as get an education. Some manage to open their own business, such as a store or some organization. It all depends on desire and financial capabilities.
The advantages and disadvantages of living in Italy
Of course, there are pros and cons in Italy. Before moving to a country, there are many factors to consider. There is a developed economy, so the level of salaries provides a decent life. There are many attractions in Italy. Living in this country, you can travel to other countries. The benefits include free medicine, including for foreigners. Doctors promptly and efficiently provide assistance to people in different situations.
The products here are of high quality, and because of this, the living standard is decent. The country has a wonderful climate, there are seas, lakes and mountains. Italians are friendly and well-mannered people, so here you can easily make great acquaintances. There is no neglect of people, including in government institutions. The lifestyle of local people involves enjoying every day, something that citizens of many other countries should learn.
But even among so many advantages, there are also disadvantages. These include the economic crisis and unemployment. It is not so easy to get a job, as most employers want to hire their people. Italy has high real estate prices, including rent, and after all, the availability of housing is the main condition. Before you go to the country, you need to learn the local language.
Not all Russians manage to adapt to the temperament of the local population. Bureaucracy reigns in organizations, and the execution of many procedures is chaotic.Foreigners are usually given a minimum pension. Qualifications and education are also required.
Residents of Italy have all sorts of rights and social benefits. This is considered the main advantage of local legislation. And although there is a selection of immigrants, yet Russian people understand that Italy has acceptable living conditions. Because of this, they choose this country and do not want to move anywhere. A development economy is considered by many to be a good reason to live here and develop a personal business.