In Italy, holders of a residence permit for work, family, job-seeking, asylum or protection have both the obligation and the right to register with the National Health Service (SSN), with the same rights as Italian citizens. Registration also covers dependent family members and children from birth.
How to register
Go to the ASL (local health authority) where you live, with:
- an identity document or passport;
- your tax code;
- your residence permit or the receipt of your application or renewal.
When you register you choose a family doctor (medico di base) and, for children, a paediatrician. Afterwards you receive the health card (tessera sanitaria), used at pharmacies, for appointments and prescriptions.
How long it lasts
Registration lasts as long as your residence permit. When you renew it, bring the receipt to the ASL so you don’t lose your coverage and your doctor.
What if you have no permit?
Undocumented people still have the right to urgent and essential care with an STP code (temporarily present foreigner), issued by ASLs and hospitals. Going to a health facility for treatment does not lead to a report to the police.
Who has to pay
Some categories — for example students and people with elective-residence or au pair permits — are not automatically registered and must join voluntarily by paying an annual contribution, or have private insurance.
