International Living Community

My wife and I are looking to retire at least part-time to Italy or Spain. We believe she qualifies for Italian citizenship. We have a million questions but here are two. (1) can one open a bank account in Italy-we would like to shelter some euros; and (2) can one initiate the citizenship process, as my wife is pure Sicilian, while in Italy or must we start in the United States. (If this is a duplicate, my apologies)

My wife and I are bound for Sicily, Catania and some day trips from Catania, and then on to Sardinia. We would like to explore real estate while there, probably rentals. We envision moving to Italy or Spain or Portugal part-time in the coming year. How does one go about looking for rentals for several months at a time? Can we open a bank account in Italy. Finally, my wife qualifies for Italian citizenship by virtue of the citizenship of her grandparents and parents. Can one apply in Italy or must my wife begin the process here in the U.S.?

Is it possible to open a bank account in Europe as an American citizen. I would like to have a place to keep euros. My son currently resides in the Netherlands, if that helps at all.

I am a new member. I have wanted to live in Europe for as long as I can remember. My wife is now retired and I am semi-retired as a lawyer, and we are now looking seriously at renting and then buying in Europe. We have a large Italian family here, so we would alternate between the US and Europe. We are looking at Spain because the cost of living seems lowest there, though Italy is attractive as my wife is pure Sicilian. France and Portugal are attractive as well. I would welcome advice as to the best countries to search considering cost of living, taxes, medical facilities, etc. Oh, I am nearing 78 and my wife 72. One other question. We have often rented cars when in Europe. i am learning that some companies will not rent to persons our age. Any suggestions? Many thanks. Ken

I have read that Spain now charges a tax of 100% for real property purchased by non-EU citizens. The big concern is the number of persons who have bought property and used them as Airbnbs. We are interested in buying a second home where we would live, not that we would rent out, though we would split time between Spain and the United States. Can anyone shed light on this new tax and tell me whether there is any way around it. Thanks.