Italian Language and Life

Considering a move to Italy? The dream is more affordable than you think. But before you pack your bags, it's crucial to understand the real costs of living. We're breaking down a realistic budget, from rent and groceries to that all-important espresso, to help you plan your Italian adventure.

The path to Italian citizenship by marriage is often the most direct route to your passport. But the journey is full of hidden threats that can add years to your timeline. Don't let hidden threats derail your progress. Don't let hidden threats derail your path to Italian citizenship by marriage. We'll show you how to navigate the threats. We've identified the three biggest threats to getting your Italian citizenship as fast as possible, and we'll show you exactly how to solve

The dream of a €1 home in Italy is everywhere. But what are the real costs and challenges? Find out if this viral trend is right for you, or if a more affordable and practical path to Italian homeownership exists.

Living in Italy is a dream, but the reality is a mix of cultural surprises. I share my journey of embracing the slow pace of life, the battles I’ve defeated, and the differences I still face. It’s an honest look at the pragmatic art of making Italy work for you.

Moving to Italy with children can be an adventure, but the biggest question mark is always school. From navigating the differences between public, private, and international options to understanding age requirements and language learning, it's a lot to take in. Our family's first-hand guide demystifies the Italian school system, so you can make the best choices for your kids and start your new life with confidence.

Are you looking for the official CILS exam dates for 2026 ? The wait is over! The University for Foreigners of Siena has officially released the exam schedule . For anyone on the path to obtaining Italian citizenship or a long-term residency permit, this is a crucial piece of information for planning your preparation. This guide will provide you with all the official CILS dates for 2026 and offer guidance on how to use this information to successfully plan your test-taking j

Dreaming of a new life in Italy? You’re not alone. The allure of historic streets, incredible food, and a vibrant culture is strong. But the path to getting there, whether through a visa or claiming your Italian citizenship, can seem like a maze of bureaucracy. It's a process that leads many to ask: "Should I hire an attorney?" Many people believe that hiring an expensive lawyer or solicitor is the only way to navigate the paperwork, making the process faster or easier. We're

If you have ever tried to schedule an appointment or visit a local shop in Italy during August, you might have been surprised to find many doors shut and “chiuso per ferie” signs everywhere. So what exactly is going on with the Italian August? At Ready Set Italia , we help you navigate not just the Italian language and citizenship process but the culture too. Here is what you should know about why Italy seems to pause every August and why it is completely normal. What Is Fer

Italy’s health care system is consistently ranked among the best in the world, but it works very differently from what many expats are used to. Whether you're applying for Italian citizenship, gaining residency, or planning a move, here's what you need to know. This post covers hospitals in Italy , how to get health insurance in Italy , what’s actually free, and what to expect as a legal resident or the spouse of an Italian citizen. Is Health Care in Italy Free? Mostly, yes.

If you're married to an Italian citizen, you may be eligible to apply for Italian citizenship by marriage , also known as cittadinanza italiana per matrimonio or jure matrimonii . This is a popular path to Italian nationality, especially for couples living abroad, but the process is complex and has recently changed. This 2025 guide covers how to obtain an Italian citizenship through marriage, including document rules, the B1 Italian test , and how to apply through the Minist

5 B1 exam mistakes that could cost you Italian citizenship. Don’t risk it. So you're applying for Italian citizenship by marriage, and you've realized you need to pass the CILS B1 Cittadinanza exam. It seems simple enough... Intermediate level Italian, right? Not so fast. Most people walk into the test unprepared for what really matters. Here are the top 5 mistakes that could cost you the B1 exam for Italian citizenship and how to avoid them. 1. Not Learning the Test Format

Thinking about taking Italian classes in Italy? If you're not applying for a student visa, traditional language schools might cost you more time and money than they're worth. Learn how Ready Set Italia offers a faster, smarter alternative—designed for people living abroad who just want to pass the B1 exam and get their Italian citizenship.

If you've spent any time dealing with Italian bureaucracy, you've probably been asked for a codice fiscale ... sometimes even before you've officially moved to Italy. But what exactly is it, and why does everyone from your landlord to the pharmacy want to see it? What Is a Codice Fiscale ? Codice fiscale (pronounced CO-dee-chay fis-cal-eh ) literally means “fiscal code” in Italian. The plural form is codici fiscali . It’s Italy’s version of a tax identification number, simil

4 years or 4 months? Which would you prefer? If you're applying for Italian citizenship through marriage or residency, you've probably come across the CILS B1 Cittadinanza exam. One of the most common questions is, how long will it take me to reach B1 level? The answer depends on what you really need. Do You Actually Need to Be B1 Level? Here’s the truth: you don’t need to be B1 level... you just need to pass a B1 exam. There’s a big difference between reaching true B1 flu

There are a lot of ways to move to Italy (citizenship, digital nomad visas, elective residency, student visas) but the real question is how do you actually do it ? From experience, I can tell you: the hardest part is not getting a visa, it’s getting a residence. Finding housing from abroad feels nearly impossible. Whether you’re renting or buying, it’s best to be in Italy when you do it. Yes, you could hire someone to help, but agent fees often run into the thousands, and doi

Is the B1 cittadinanza still available?

What’s the Best Way to Pass the CILS Exam? If you're preparing for the CILS Italian language exam (especially for citizenship or a long-term residency visa ) you might be wondering how to study. Should you sign up for a traditional language school? Stick with apps like Duolingo? Or focus on targeted exam prep? Italian Language Class, Ready Set Italia or Duolingo? Here’s why dedicated exam preparation is the smartest, most efficient way to succeed especially if your goal

If you're even thinking about Italian citizenship , relocating to Italy , or creating any financial connection to the country , there’s one move you should make first: Open a Wise account. It sounds simple, but this one action can save you time, money, and frustration throughout your entire journey. Even if you're still abroad, many of the key steps in the process may require euro payments: official translations, marca da bollo (Italian tax stamps), application fees, and ev

If you're applying for Italian citizenship , a long-term residency permit , or need to meet the requirements of the integration agreement (accordo di integrazione) , the CILS exam  is one of the most widely accepted Italian language tests. But the registration process can be confusing, especially if you're outside of Italy. CILS is an official Italian language certification recognized worldwide. Click the logo to visit the official site. Here's a clear step-by-step guide to

Watching Italian movies and TV shows is one of the most enjoyable ways to get used to hearing the language. If you’re applying for Italian citizenship, you might be wondering: Can I reach B1 level just by watching Netflix? The short answer? It helps, but it’s not enough to pass the citizenship exam. Fun fact: The Italian Job (1969), was filmed in Turin. It is great for getting inspired, but you’ll still need focused prep to pass the B1 exam. 🎧 Why Movies and TV Can Be Helpfu