How Italy’s Health Care System Actually Works in 2025

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.

Italy has universal health care, funded through taxes. That means:

✅ Emergency care, including ambulances, is completely free — even for tourists

✅ Once you’re a resident, Italy’s public health insurance system is nearly free

✅ Prescription pills are usually free

✅ Specialist visits cost about €25

Who Qualifies for Italy’s Public Health Insurance?

You can register for Italian health insurance if you are:

• An Italian citizen

• The spouse of an Italian citizen

• A legal resident with a valid permesso di soggiorno

• An EU citizen registered in Italy

Once you’ve registered your residenza anagrafica, go to your local ASL office to enroll. You’ll need your residency certificate, codice fiscale, ID, and proof of stay.

What Is the Tessera Sanitaria?

Your tessera sanitaria is your public health insurance card. It gives you access to:

• Your assigned general practitioner (GP or medico di base)

• Hospitals and emergency care

• Referrals to public specialists in Italy

• Free or discounted prescriptions

It also doubles as your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), so you're covered when traveling in the EU — just like a local resident.

And fun fact: this same card is also used as your tax ID and is required if you want to buy tobacco products in Italy.

Your tessera sanitaria gives you access to public healthcare in Italy and acts as your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) when traveling.

Can You Find Doctors Who Speak English?

Yes, especially in larger cities.Tip: Join local Facebook groups for expats or Italian citizenship applicants. You’ll find English-speaking doctors and other local tips. When you register, you can request a specific GP by name.

How Do You Book Appointments?

Specialist appointments are booked online through your regional health care portal.

But GP appointments are made directly with your doctor — usually by:

• Phone

• Email

• Or even WhatsApp, which is widely used in Italy for both personal and professional communication

Your medico di base typically handles scheduling themselves or through a small office assistant.

Do You Need Private Medical Insurance in Italy?

In most cases, no. Once you’re a resident or the spouse of an Italian citizen, Italy’s health insurance system covers almost everything.

Private insurance is available, but:

• It’s usually not necessary

• It’s often sold by banks, cell phone providers, and even supermarkets

• Private doctors may not speak English and don’t always offer better care

• Costs range from €80–150 for a visit

Does Italy Have Universal Health Care?

Yes — Italy has a universal, tax-funded public health system. Health in Italy is considered a right, not a privilege. As a resident, you’ll have access to affordable care, low medication costs, and emergency services with no bill surprises.

Final Thoughts

Italy’s health care system is one of the best reasons to live here, especially if you’re applying for citizenship or getting your first permesso. It’s accessible, affordable, and actually works.

✅ Emergency care is always free

✅ Hospitals in Italy are modern and well-equipped

✅ Most medications are low-cost or free

✅ English-speaking doctors are out there - just ask

✅ Appointments are booked directly, even by WhatsApp

✅ And your health card works across Europe as your EHIC

Want more real-world tips about living in Italy, applying for citizenship, or passing the B1 exam? Follow Ready Set Italia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook or check out our full blog archive.