How to Apply for a Tessera Sanitaria (Italian Health Insurance Card)

The Tessera Sanitaria, or Italian health insurance card, is an essential document for residents in Italy. It provides access to the public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale or SSN) and covers medical visits, hospital treatments, and prescription drugs. Whether you’re a new resident or have recently obtained Italian citizenship, understanding how to apply for a Tessera Sanitaria is crucial to accessing healthcare services.

What Is the Tessera Sanitaria?

The Tessera Sanitaria serves as proof of registration in the Italian public healthcare system and is a health card for medical services. It includes a personal identification number and tax code (Codice Fiscale), making it an essential document for various services beyond healthcare, such as filing taxes or applying for other public services. This card allows you to visit general practitioners, access hospital care, purchase prescription medications at reduced rates, and benefit from Italy’s comprehensive healthcare services.

Who Is Eligible for Italian Health Insurance?

To be eligible for the Tessera Sanitaria, you must be a resident of Italy and registered with the SSN. Here are the main categories of eligibility:

• Italian citizens: Those living in Italy who hold Italian citizenship, including those who have acquired citizenship through descent (jure sanguinis), marriage (jure matrimonii) or naturalization, are eligible.
• EU citizens: European Union citizens who reside in Italy for more than three months and are registered with the local registry office can also apply.
• Non-EU citizens: Non-EU residents with a valid residence permit, including those with work permits, family reunification permits, or study visas, are eligible for the Tessera Sanitaria.
• Family members: Dependents of those enrolled in the SSN, including spouses and minor children, can also be covered under this system.

What Documents Are Required to Apply?

To apply for an Italian health insurance card, you will need to provide several documents, as follows:

• Valid identification: Italian passport, EU passport, or a valid residence permit if you are a non-EU citizen.
• Codice Fiscale: This tax identification number is necessary for almost all administrative procedures in Italy. It can be obtained through the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency).
• Proof of residence: This may include a certificato di residenza (residence certificate) from the local municipality (comune) or a lease agreement.
• Application form: This form is usually available at the local Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) office, where you will submit your application.

How to Apply for a Tessera Sanitaria

Applying for health insurance in Italy is straightforward but varies slightly depending on where you live. Follow these steps to complete your application:

1. Gather the required documents: Ensure you have your identification, Codice Fiscale, proof of residence, and completed application form.
2. Visit your local ASL office: Locate the ASL office nearest your residence. Depending on your region’s requirements, you may need to schedule an appointment in advance.
3. Submit your application: Present your documents and the application form at the ASL office. The staff will verify your eligibility and process your request.
4. Receive your Tessera Sanitaria: Once your application is processed, you will receive a temporary paper certificate allowing you to access healthcare services immediately. Your official card will be mailed to your registered address within a few weeks.

Your Italian health insurance is generally valid for the same duration as your residence permit or indefinitely for permanent residents and citizens.

Find Out If You Qualify for Italian Dual Citizenship and a Tessera Sanitaria

Ready to secure your health insurance card in Italy? Our Italian dual citizenship service assists you through every step, from understanding eligibility to obtaining the necessary documents. Start your journey toward Italian citizenship and access to Italy’s world-class healthcare system by contacting the Italian American Citizenship Assistance Program today.