A trip to Italy with the whole family—sun, good food, and a child-friendly lifestyle. But what about residency, school, childcare, and child benefits? This guide covers all the steps families need to take: from residency to school and daycare to health care and financial support.
EU or non-EU family?
➤ EU families (including Germany and Austria) and Swiss citizens: You can move to Italy freely; if you plan to stay for an extended period, you must register your Residenza to.
➤ Non-EU families (e.g., the U.S., the U.K.): You need visas and permits; family members can join you through family reunification.
Family Reunification (for Non-EU Citizens)
Non-EU family members (spouses, minor children) move to the country via a Family Reunification Visa as soon as the main applicant has obtained a residence permit. A prerequisite is a Nulla Osta the Immigration Office, proof of housing and income.
School and Child Care
Italy has a well-developed system: daycare (daycare center, 0–3) and preschool (preschool, 3–6), after which school is mandatory starting at age 6. You can read about the registration process at Enrolling Children in School and Daycare & Childcare.
Enrolling Children in School in Italy: Understanding the School System
The structure of the school system, compulsory education, online registration, required documents, and international/German schools—here’s how to enroll your child in school in Italy.
Children's Health
About the SSN Health Services Are children covered and do they receive a pediatrician of one's choice – a regular pediatrician whose services are free of charge. Proof of vaccinations is also important for school enrollment.
Child Benefits: the "assegno unico"
Italy pays a flat-rate child benefit that universal child allowance the INPS. The amount is based on income (ISEE) and is roughly around 57 to 200 € per month per child. The application can be submitted through the INPS portal or a patronato.
Housing and Daily Life
When looking for an apartment, make sure it's close to a school and that you can register there (Residenza). You can read about how lease agreements work at Renting an Apartment in Italy. Experience shows that children learn the language quickly in everyday life.
What You Need to Do Next
Plan your stay (visa/residence permit), school or daycare enrollment, and SSN registration for all family members. Make sure to obtain your children’s Codici Fiscali early and check your eligibility for the assegno unico. Are you expecting a child in Italy? Then check out our guide Pregnancy and Childbirth.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Emigrating with Your Family
Sources
- INPS – National Social Security Institute (Universal Child Allowance) (accessed in June 2026)
- Ministry of Education and Merit – Online Registration (accessed in June 2026)
