Italy has a universal public healthcare system known as the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN). Access depends on an individual's residence status and eligibility under Italian law. Some residents are entitled to mandatory registration, while others may register voluntarily or rely on private health insurance.
Healthcare registration is one of the first steps after relocating, eligibility depends on immigration and residence status, and understanding the SSN helps residents access affordable healthcare services.
The SSN provides healthcare services throughout the country and is administered by the Ministry of Health together with regional healthcare authorities, with delivery managed locally through Aziende Sanitarie Locali (ASL) or equivalent regional health authorities.
Eligibility depends on immigration and residence status, and may include Italian citizens, EU citizens meeting applicable requirements, non-EU nationals legally residing in Italy who qualify under Italian legislation, certain family members, and other categories recognised by law. Eligibility should always be confirmed with the competent ASL.
Many legally resident foreign nationals — employees, self-employed workers, holders of qualifying residence permits, and eligible family members — are required or entitled to register with the SSN, generally providing access to public healthcare under the same conditions as Italian residents. Individuals not entitled to mandatory registration may be eligible to register voluntarily by paying the applicable contribution, depending on residence status, visa category and applicable legislation.
Certain visa categories require applicants to maintain valid medical insurance during the visa application process or until eligible for SSN registration. Many residents also choose private insurance for shorter waiting times, wider provider choice and additional specialist services. Private insurance does not replace statutory SSN registration where registration is mandatory.
Eligible residents generally register through their local ASL, typically providing a passport, residence permit where applicable, Codice Fiscale, proof of residence and supporting immigration documentation — requirements vary between regions. Following successful registration, individuals receive a Tessera Sanitaria (Health Card), used for accessing healthcare services, collecting prescriptions, patient identification within the SSN, and certain digital public services; it also incorporates the individual's Codice Fiscale.
Registered residents are generally entitled to choose a General Practitioner (Medico di Medicina Generale), who provides primary healthcare, referrals to specialists, medical certificates and ongoing healthcare management; children are normally assigned a paediatrician where applicable. Patients requiring specialist treatment are generally referred by their family doctor and may receive treatment through the SSN (with an applicable co-payment where required) or choose private treatment — waiting times vary between regions and specialties.
Emergency medical treatment is available through hospital emergency departments, and Italy uses the national emergency number 112 for life-threatening emergencies. Emergency treatment is provided regardless of nationality, although payment obligations may depend on eligibility and residence status.
Medicines are supplied through pharmacies (Farmacie); depending on the medicine, some require a prescription, some are available over the counter, and some may qualify for SSN reimbursement. Routine dental treatment is largely provided through private practitioners, with limited public dental services in certain circumstances. Mental health services are available through the SSN, generally coordinated through family doctors, specialist mental health services, hospitals and regional healthcare providers, though availability may differ between regions.
Italy operates national vaccination programmes; certain vaccinations may be recommended, required under public health legislation, or offered free of charge through the SSN to eligible residents. Current guidance is published by the Ministry of Health.