Disability and independent living in Italy

What is housing independence?

In Italy, a person with a disability has the right to live with dignity and to choose how to organize their life. Living independently does not mean doing everything on one’s own; rather, it means being able to make decisions about one’s home, receive support when needed, and live in a safe and accessible environment.

If you are a migrant, understanding how the Italian system works can be complicated. That is why it is important to have simple, clear information.

What general forms of housing assistance are available?

1. Case popolari [Public Housing]

Le case popolari consists of homes with lower rents than those on the private market. In Italy, these are managed by Comuni o dalle Regioni [municipalities or regions]. People with disabilities may receive additional points in the ranking lists. You can apply if you have :

• a [valid residency permit] permesso di soggiorno valido; 
• residence in Italia;
• low income
• specific documents required by the municipality where you reside.

Each city has different rules. It is important to check your municipality’s public notice.

2. Rent subsidies

Many municipalities offer financial assistance for rent payments. These grants can be useful for:

• people with disabilities;
• low-income families;
• people living alone facing financial hardship.

You often need the ISEE, the document showing your family’s financial situation.

3. Removal of architectural barriers

A person with a disability can apply for grants to modify their home and move around more easily.

For example:

• install a ramp;
• install an elevator;
• adapt the bathroom;
• widen the doors;
• install grab bars or safety devices.

The application is usually submitted to the municipality.

4. Home care

In some municipalities, home care services exist for people with disabilities.

The agents can help you with:

• personal hygiene;
• meal preparation;
• getting around;
• managing the household;
• daily activities.

Some services are free, while others are available at a reduced cost based on the ISEE.

The “Dopo di Noi” (After Us) project (Law 112/2016): what does this law say?

In Italy, there is a law known as “Dopo di Noi” (After Us).

This law helps people with severe disabilities who cannot rely on their families in the future. Severe disability is defined by Article 3, Paragraph 3 of Law 104/1992.

The project can offer:

• shared apartments;
• small group living arrangements;
• pathways to independence;
• support staff;
• assistance with daily living.

The goal is to prevent individuals from living in large, isolated institutions and to foster a life that is as independent as possible. Access procedures vary from region to region. For information, you can contact the social services department of your local municipality.

Where to find help in Italy

There are various useful services in Italy.:

• Municipal social services: they help you understand what support is available.
• Patronati [Patronage institutes]: they can provide free assistance with administrative procedures and documents;
• Disability associations: offer information, accompaniment, and support;
• Centers and associations offering services to migrants: some centers also assist with healthcare procedures, housing, and social rights.

Some useful tips

• Always keep copies of documents.
• Ask for translations if anything is unclear.
• Do not sign documents you do not understand.
• Seek information from multiple offices and associations.
• Ask for help immediately, without waiting for an emergency situation to arise.

This contribution was produced by ItaliaHello with the help and support of Cooperativa Sociale Barberi Onlus.