For many, Italy conjures images of rolling vineyards, ancient history whispering from every cobblestone street, and of course, the irresistible allure of delectable cuisine. But beyond the tourist postcard, Italy offers a rich tapestry of culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere that beckons those seeking a new chapter in life.
Whether you dream of sipping espresso in a bustling piazza, restoring a charming villa in Tuscany, or pursuing a career in fashion capital Milan, Relocation to Italy presents a unique opportunity. This introductory guide will unveil the essential steps to consider as you embark on your Italian adventure.
Importing goods into Italy involves adhering to a set of customs procedures and regulations to ensure smooth clearance and compliance with legal requirements. Understanding the necessary documents and protocols can help facilitate the process and mitigate potential delays or additional costs. In this article, we’ll explore the guidelines provided by FIDI, the International Federation of International Furniture Removers, to assist individuals in navigating the complexities of importing goods into Italy.
Essential Documents and Procedures
Importing goods into Italy requires careful attention to documentation. One essential document is the customs form Mod.F-01B, known as “istanza con garanzia,” which is necessary when depositing duties and taxes. It’s important to note that the deposit will be refunded upon submission of an official certificate of residence within six months from the importation date. However, this process can involve additional costs and a lengthy waiting period before the deposit is returned.
Non-EU Citizens and Residence Registration
For non-EU citizens, registering as a resident in Italy is contingent upon progressing through the immigration process and obtaining a “permesso di soggiorno.” This step is crucial for individuals intending to reside in Italy for an extended period.
Freight Declaration and Duties/Taxes Calculation
Some customs offices may require the declaration of the freight amount during clearance, necessitating the submission of a copy of the freight invoice. It’s essential to note that if the shipment is dutiable, the freight cost will be factored into the calculation of duties and taxes, in addition to the customs value of the goods.
Navigating Italian Customs
Importing household goods and vehicles into Italy involves adherence to specific customs regulations and procedures. The Italian Customs authorities typically grant free entry to these items under certain conditions:
- Ownership and Usage: The importer must have owned and used the goods or vehicles for at least six months before relocating to Italy.
- Proof of Residency: The importer must provide evidence of having lived in the country of shipment origin for at least 12 months before returning to Italy.
- Residence Registration: It’s essential for the importer to have applied for residence registration at the city hall (iscrizione anagrafica) before the arrival of the shipment.
- Timing of Importation: The importation must occur within 12 months from the date of residence registration in Italy.
Other Remarks
In addition to the core customs guidelines, several important remarks and considerations should be taken into account when importing goods into Italy:
- Consultation with Italian Agent: It is highly advisable to seek approval from the Italian agent before forwarding any shipment to Italy. This ensures compliance with specific requirements and procedures.
- Prohibited Items: Refer to the dedicated section on prohibited items to avoid any complications during customs clearance.
- Compliance for Electrical Bicycles and Scooters: Electrical bicycles or scooters can only be imported if they meet EU requirements and bear the “CE” logo.
- Increased Customs Controls: Italian customs has intensified documental verifications and physical inspections, leading to potential additional costs and charges for demurrage, detention, and storage.
- Use of Absorbing Poles and Silica Gel Bags: Products used to prevent humidity must be proven to be free of harmful substances. Sanitary authorities may require analysis certificates for such products.
- Phytosanitary Controls: Recent implementations by customs and phytosanitary authorities require careful attention, especially for shipments originating from China and the Republic of Belarus.
- Wooden Material Compliance: Any wooden material used in the shipment, including pallets, crates, and bulkheads, must strictly adhere to FAO ISPM 15 requirements. Providing certificates and photos demonstrating compliance is recommended.