Italy has a public healthcare system, the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale, commonly referred to as the SSN, as well as a private healthcare sector. Access to public healthcare depends on nationality, immigration status, employment situation and local registration requirements. For relocating employees and families, understanding healthcare eligibility early is an important part of settling in Italy.
How does healthcare work in Italy?
Healthcare in Italy is provided through the public National Health Service and through private medical providers. The public system offers access to general practitioners, paediatricians, hospitals, specialists and medical services. Private healthcare is also widely used, especially when faster appointments or English-speaking doctors are preferred.
Can foreign employees register with the Italian National Health Service?
In many cases, yes. Employees hired in Italy and contributing to the Italian system are generally eligible to register with the SSN. Posted workers, EU nationals and non-EU nationals may follow different routes depending on their social security position, immigration status and the documentation available.
Can family members register for healthcare in Italy?
In many cases, eligible family members can access healthcare coverage together with the principal employee, provided the family relationship can be documented. Documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, translations and legalisations may be required depending on the case.
What is the Tessera Sanitaria?
The Tessera Sanitaria is the Italian health card issued after registration with the National Health Service. It is used to access public healthcare services, medical prescriptions and other health-related administrative procedures.
Can I choose a family doctor in Italy?
Yes. Once registered with the SSN, you can usually choose a general practitioner, known as a Medico di Base. Families with children can usually choose a paediatrician. Availability varies by location, and not all doctors speak English.
Do I need private health insurance?
Private health insurance may be required before or during the first stages of relocation, depending on your nationality and immigration route. Even when access to the SSN is available, some international families choose to keep private coverage for faster appointments, international coverage or English-speaking medical support.
What should EU citizens know before travelling to Italy?
EU citizens travelling temporarily to Italy should check whether they need a European Health Insurance Card, commonly known as EHIC, from their home country. For longer stays or relocation, healthcare registration requirements may differ from short-term travel coverage.
What should non-EU citizens know before arriving?
Non-EU citizens may need private health insurance for visa, entry or residence permit purposes, depending on the type of stay and immigration pathway. The best approach is to check healthcare requirements before arrival, especially when moving for work or with accompanying family members.
Can Professional Relo help with healthcare registration?
Yes.
Professional Relo can help relocating employees and families understand the documentation usually required and navigate the local registration process where applicable.
