Thinking of retiring or relocating to Italy? Before you start picturing aperitivo hours and rolling hills, you’ll need to face Italy’s most stubborn gatekeeper: the visa system. This post breaks down every major long-stay visa option—from the Elective Residency Visa to the brand-new Digital Nomad Visa—with real talk, real requirements, and zero sugarcoating. If you’ve been overwhelmed by consulate websites, expat forums, or conflicting advice, this is the clear, detailed walk