Languages:

Italian is the primary language by far, although several regional dialects are spoken in small towns throughout Italy.

Cost of living:

While Italy is one of Europe’s cheapest countries, northern and central Italy are typically more expensive than the south. Expect higher prices in cities, for instance Milan is the 25th most expensive city to live in throughout the world.

Visa and Work Permits:

You will need a visa if you plan on staying longer than 90 days. To work in Italy, you must obtain a work permit from an employer prior to arriving in the country.

Job Searching:

Italy’s unemployment rate is quite high compared to other countries.

            The website www.acle.org is an organization that hires English teachers, although they do not help you get a work permit.

            For interviews remember that Italians prefer to do business in their own language. Efforts on your part will be appreciated, even if you’re not fluent. Also recognize that Italians are known for using the most body language of all European nations. There is very little personal space.
            When Italian companies initially offer a job, it is generally on a short-term basis with very low salary and zero benefits. Then, after several years you finally get a fixed position with a pension, but even then, medical and dental benefits are very rare.

           Cultural Differences in the Workplace:

Italians tend to be MUCH more fashion conscious, so you may wish to dress more formally (take cues from your co-workers). Shoes are particularly important.

            In Italian culture people are expected to have a sense of formality and decorum known as “bella figura” (beautiful figure) at all times. What other people think is extremely important and one must always present themselves and behave the “right” way.

            Cultural achievement is Italy’s greatest source of pride and joy. Inventiveness, imagination, intelligence and education are valued. Protocol, rules and organization are often ignored. Meeting style tends to be unstructured and informal.

            Personal relationships are closely maintained and loyalty is valued very highly. Familiarity is very important in Italian business culture. As such, establish personal relationships with coworkers. Italians like to deal with people they know and trust. They also tend to believe that work should not be a burden or taken too seriously. Never call an Italian businessperson at home, unless absolutely needed.

            Finally, hierarchy is key and the “cordata” or chain of command must not be ignored if you truly want to accomplish something.

           
Money, Banking & Insurance:

For foreigners to open a bank account, you most often need a residence certificate (certificato di residencia). If you do not have this, look for a bank that has branches in your home country. These include Banca Commerciale Italiana, Banca di Roma, and Banca San Paolo Imi. To open a bank account in any bank, you should take a passport, residence certificate or permesso di soggiorno (residence permit), proof of address in Italy, proof of income, birth certificate, and reference from your home bank.

            Health insurance is required for all residents of Italy and you must have it before you can apply for a residence permit. Health insurance policies can be purchased at the post office.

Security/Safety:

The website http://www.worldworx.tv/safety/europe/italy/index.htm has a comprehensive listing of safety information for Italy.