Italy - Habitual residence
This chapter explains what you need to know about the 'habitual residence' requirement, which is essential in order to be entitled to certain social security benefits granted based on income.
When am I considered a habitual resident?
To see whether you can be considered a 'habitual resident', you must take into account two factors:
- the right to legally reside in the territory;
- an objective assessment of concrete evidence proving habitual residence.
Proof of being a 'habitual resident' is based on certain information. If you have lived in Italy all your life, you probably won't have any problem proving that you meet all the conditions which define the term 'habitual resident'.
What conditions do I need to meet?
You can acquire resident status if you meet the requirements to live in Italy, based on legislation in force.
The term 'habitual resident' means that a person has their fixed domicile in Italy, where they have established their family life and their interests. If you are a citizen of the European Union and have stayed legally and continuously for 5 years on national territory, you acquire the permanent right to remain.
What am I entitled to and how can I claim?
To request assistance in Italy, you must meet the requirements laid down for this kind of benefit.
For the benefits listed below, which are offered in Italy, habitual residence is one of the requirements:
- social allowance (assegno sociale);
- minimum income supplement (integrazione al trattamento minimo);
- social supplement (maggiorazione sociale);
- Constant attendance allowance (Assegno di accompagnamento);
- civil incapacity pensions (pensioni di invalidità civile);
- Inclusion Income support (ReI - Reddito d’Inclusione).
To find out more, you can consult the dedicated sections of this guide.
You can also ask the Employee organisations for assistance on how to claim these benefits.
Jargon busters
Habitual resident: term defined by EU regulations, which refers to the place where you live stably and where your interests are centred (more detailed definition).
Forms you may need to fill in
The forms to be used are specified in the previous chapter, in the dedicated sections of this guide.
Know your rights
- Regulation on what checks of habitual residence.
- Guide on habitual residence for EU or EEA citizens.
Also, below is the link to access European Commission publications on coordination of social security rights for those who live or travel in the EU:
Who do you need to contact?
Ministry for Employment and Social Policy
Via Flavia 6 00187 Rome RM ITALY
Toll-free number: + 39 800196196
E-mail: centrodicontatto@lavoro.gov.it
Website: http://www.lavoro.gov.it
Ministry for Health
Via Giorgio Ribotta 5 00144 Rome RM ITALY
Toll-free number: +39 800571661
Website: http://www.ministerosalute.it