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Italy

#1 Hot

Your European life, decoded · Updated July 2026

The most accessible passive-income route in Europe for English-speaking expats. D7 still works, the sun is real, and the numbers are clear — even after the 2026 citizenship change.

Barometer Score
8.9 /10
89%
Visa accessibility
9.0
Tax appeal
7.8
Cost of living
8.4
Healthcare
8.8
Lifestyle & language
9.2
Last reviewed 9 Jul 2026 Full methodology →

Quick Facts · 2026

All figures verified from official sources
D7 Visa income
€920
/month passive · 2026
Median home price
€2,198
/m² national · Q4 2025
Citizenship
10 yrs
Changed May 2026
English proficiency
#6
Worldwide · EF EPI 2025
Median rent (new)
€9.46
/m² national · Lisbon €17.42
Min wage 2026
€920
D7 benchmark
Life expectancy
81.5
years · INE
Foreign residents
14%
of 11.4M population

The Italy Guide

Pick a topic. Every guide is sourced, dated, and written for people who actually move.

Portugal Tools

Interactive calculators using 2026 rules. No signup required.

Tax Estimator 2026

Gross → net under current rules

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Cost of Living Estimator

Based on INE 2025–2026 data

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Quick Visa Eligibility Check

Answer 4 questions and see which Portuguese routes are realistic for your situation in 2026.

2026 Rule Changes That Matter

1

Citizenship now takes 10 years

Organic Law 1/2026 (in force 19 May 2026) raised naturalisation from 5 to 10 years for non-EU/CPLP. Applications filed before keep the old 5-year rules. Permanent residency still 5 years.

Verified · May 2026
2

No more “move first, regularise later”

Law 61/2025 abolished the manifestation of interest route. Residency now starts with a visa application at a Portuguese consulate before you move.

Verified · Oct 2025
3

NHR gone → IFICI (20% for some)

Old 10% pension NHR is closed. IFICI gives 20% flat tax for 10 years to qualifying professionals — but excludes pensions. Retirees now pay progressive rates.

Verified · 2024–2026

Relocation Checklist

Every step from 18 months out to your first 90 days — with 2026 rules built in.

Open full interactive checklist

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Italy changes fast. We keep score.

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