UPDATE (16/01/24): Voluntary contributions for public healthcare access have increased from January 2024. Read more here.

is it necessary?

Non-EU citizens require some form of valid health coverage for the duration of their stay in Italy.

EU citizens do not require health coverage for entry, however it’s advisable for peace of mind and a requirement for those EU citizens applying for Italian residency (always remember, the EU EHIC Health Card covers emergency treatments only). For more information on the different kinds of health coverage, including our recommended private providers, check out our full guide.

PRO TIP: To register for public healthcare, you need to already have a Permit of Stay (Permesso di Soggiorno). This means that a Tessera Sanitaria CANNOT be used to meet Visa entry requirements nor to obtain a Permit of Stay upon arrival in Italy. Non-EU students will first need a private insurance policy to apply for residency, after which point, any legal resident can then apply for the Tessera Sanitaria.

how to apply

Step #1

Gather your required documents: Passport, Codice Fiscale, proof of address, university enrolment notice / work contract.

Step #2

Pay a visit to your Local ASL office: This will save you a lot of time later! If you are a student or any persons not making INPS (social security) contributions, you should go there first to confirm the exact fee due for the duration of your stay. The current fixed yearly lump sum for students is €149.77.

Step #3

Go to any Post Office to pay the fixed fee where applicable: Just complete the paper form (Bollettino Postale) available in the reception to make any payments at the Post Office. After you’ve completed the form, pay at the kiosk and keep the receipt! You will need to show it later if you are not otherwise making INPS (social security) contributions. 

Step #4

Take copies of the documents referenced above, along with the payment receipt you got from the Post Office, and then go back to your ASL office (Local Health Authority).

PRO TIP: After completing your registration, you will be invited to choose your public Primary Care Physician. They will show you the list of names and the addresses, but they won’t be able to tell you if the doctor speaks English. Also, if you do not know the street names, it may be hard for you to choose one who is conveniently located. It’s better to go prepared, knowing already the name and address of the doctor you wish to register with.

Step #5

Keep the registration receipt you receive from the ASL office: You will use this as a proof of registration until you receive your Tessera Sanitaria Card that will be delivered to your home address by standard mail.

Step #6

Take your registration document to the Primary Care Physician (Medico di Base or Medico di Famiglia) that you picked, so that he/she can register you as an official patient. Expect that each Medico di Base will be part of a small practice with its own business hours and way of doing business. Make sure to take note of your doctors office hours and phone number in case you need to ask for a house call (available if you are too sick to get to the office). 

Appointment anxiety? apply with the support centre

While it’s possible to obtain a Tessera Sanitaria on your own, many international students and expats find it helpful to have someone with experience and knowledge of the Italian system handle the application process for them. Our Support Services are designed to make your life in Italy easier and more convenient. Contact us today to learn more about our Support Services and how we can help you get your Tessera Sanitaria quickly and hassle-free.

Content and support is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as independent legal, taxation, or other investment advices.