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Healthcare in Italy
Healthcare in Italy starts with the right insurance or registration. For immediate danger call 112; for non-urgent care use the national or local health service listed below.
Healthcare offices in Italy
SSN — Servizio Sanitario Nazionale: Public healthcare (tessera sanitaria).
How to get covered
Permesso di soggiorno: Apply within 8 days of arrival at the post-office 'Sportello Amico' with the yellow kit. Collect the kit — Free at any Poste Italiane with Sportello Amico. Fill in with passport data + visa reason. Send by registered mail — Cost ~76 € + 30 € permit + 16 € stamp. You get a receipt — keep it, it legalizes your stay. Questura appointment — Bring passport, photos, receipt, insurance/contract. Fingerprints taken. Card arrives in 1–3 months. Codice fiscale: Free tax ID needed for a SIM, contract, rent, healthcare. Book at Agenzia delle Entrate — Bring passport + visa/permit receipt. Issued the same day. Non-residents — Italian consulates abroad can issue it before you arrive. Register with the SSN: Public healthcare via ASL. Free for employed, students, family; ~€2 000/yr voluntary otherwise. Go to your ASL — Bring permesso, codice fiscale, residenza. Choose a medico di base (GP). Tessera sanitaria — Arrives by post. Free GP + hospital, small co-pay for specialists.
Emergency and urgent care
Emergency number: 112. Medical help: 118. Police: 113. Use emergency care for serious or life-threatening situations; for routine problems, start with a GP or local clinic.
Prescriptions, interpreters and costs
Ask for an interpreter when booking if you are not confident in Italian. Bring ID, residence documents and insurance proof. Public care is usually free or low-cost after registration; without registration, ask clinics or NGOs about community care.
Frequently asked questions
What number do I call for an ambulance in Italy?
Call 112. It works for urgent medical, fire and police emergencies.
Which office should I contact first in Italy?
Start with SSN — Servizio Sanitario Nazionale. For broader newcomer help, also check Questura — Ufficio Immigrazione, Agenzia delle Entrate, Comune (Anagrafe).
What language will offices use in Italy?
The main administrative language is Italian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need private insurance?
In most EU countries, once you are legally resident, public healthcare covers you. Private insurance is optional and used for faster access to specialists.
What does a doctor visit cost?
Usually free or a small copayment (5–25 EUR). Costs are much higher without a residence permit — use community clinics if that is your situation.