Living where others go on vacation – that is the dream of many people. But going on vacation in a place and building a life there are not the same thing. Once you have made the decision to emigrate, many aspects must be considered. We clarify the housing and labor market situation in South Tyrol to make the decision easier.
How do you find the right job in South Tyrol?
All places on our earth have one thing in common: if you want to live well, you also have to earn money. But if you want to work abroad, you naturally also need a work permit. Basically, you can obtain this relatively easily, just like in other parts of Italy.
As a rule, it is advisable to find out about relevant job offers in your desired place of residence in advance. Anyone who wants to find work in South Tyrol can find out about relevant job offers online. It is also worth taking a look at company websites, as employers in South Tyrol often look for regional employees.
Which industries are represented in South Tyrol?
Since South Tyrol is a true tourist area, there are mainly jobs in the hotel and catering sectors. However, doctors and nursing staff as well as craftsmen, technicians or engineers may also be needed. Teachers or educators are also sought after from time to time in the social sector.
How does the application process work?
South Tyroleans are rather old-fashioned when it comes to certain behaviors. This means that South Tyrolean employers prefer it if you make personal contact with the respective company on site. In many cases, the boss decides for themselves whether you are hired or not. In addition, Italians feel very flattered if you emphasize again and again during the job interview how great you think the company is and how much you would like to work for them. Often you even have to interview for a position several times in South Tyrol. The employer wants to find out how much you are striving for the position.
It is also not uncommon to be able to start work the very next day after a successful job interview. What is associated with more bureaucracy in Austria can be much more uncomplicated and spontaneous in South Tyrol.
How much do you earn in South Tyrol?
Basically, you have to expect a lower income in South Tyrol than in Austria. Local companies usually pay low wages. Only in international corporations are salaries somewhat more generous.
As far as social security contributions and tax levies are concerned, these are at about the same level as in Austria or Germany.
How do you find an apartment in South Tyrol?
The cost of living in South Tyrol is not exactly low. Therefore, it is worth comparing offers on the Internet to find the right apartment or even a house. Basically, the market for rental apartments is rather small, as most Italians own their own property. Anyone who wants to settle in South Tyrol can also ask locals for connections or contacts. The South Tyroleans are very hospitable and helpful and can certainly establish one or two contacts.
Which bureaucratic matters need to be taken care of?
Even though South Tyroleans are a relaxed people, the Italian bureaucracy should not be underestimated. Here is a rough overview of what needs to be done:
Required documents
Before you register at the residents' registration office in South Tyrol, you should first give up your old apartment. The necessary documents include, among others:
- Identity card or passport
- Birth certificates of the children
- Marriage certificate
- Driver's license
The Austrian driver's license is also valid in Italy. Nevertheless, you should have the driver's license registered at the responsible driver's license office ("motorizzazione") in South Tyrol. In addition, the Italian regulations for, for example, the expiration date then apply.
Apply for a tax card
Anyone who wants to work and live in South Tyrol or another Italian province needs a so-called "codice fiscale", i.e., a tax number. You can only apply for this at the responsible tax office ("Agenzia delle Entrate") once you already have a permanent residence in South Tyrol. You will then receive a type of credit card, which you should always carry with you. It is often required as proof, for example, when you want to conclude a contract.
Set up a bank account
Once you have a residence and a tax number, the next step is to go to the bank. The account management fees for residents are cheaper than those for foreigners. Therefore, you should only open a bank account once you have already moved your center of life to South Tyrol. For this, you also need your identity card and the tax card.
Italian bank accounts are usually subject to a stamp duty, which must be paid annually in addition to the account management fees.
Register for health insurance
If you live in South Tyrol, you are also entitled to state health insurance in Italy. The "Servizio Sanitario Nazionale" is free of charge. It only needs to be registered with the local health service ("Aziende Sanitarie Locali"). For registration, you need your identity card and the Italian tax card, as well as proof of residence and the employment contract. Unlike in Austria, the contributions are paid entirely by the employer.
Since state health insurance does not cover all services, many Italians also have private health insurance.
Conclusion
Living and working in the province of South Tyrol can be beautiful and exciting. As long as all bureaucratic and organizational matters are taken care of, nothing can stand in the way of the new adventure!
