Ben and Tayler Iveson, a couple in their late twenties, are facing significant challenges in their pursuit of a dream life in Sicily. The pair purchased a home in Sambuca, a picturesque town known for its stunning lake views and vineyards, for €55,000 (£48,000) in 2021. They invested an additional €120,000 in renovations, transforming a run-down property into what they envisioned as their ideal residence. However, complications arising from visa regulations have thwarted their plans to relocate permanently.
The Ivesons, who hail from Halifax, intended to move to their Sicilian home in the short to medium term. Mr. Iveson, 29, a construction contracts manager, expressed frustration over not fully understanding the implications of Brexit at the time of their purchase. “When we bought the house, we weren’t aware yet of the full impact of Brexit and the challenges it would pose to us being able to move out there,” he said.
After acquiring the property, the couple applied for Italy’s Elective Residence Visa, confident that their savings would meet the requirements. This visa is designed for retirees and others who can sustain themselves without working. At the time, the income threshold for a couple was €32,000 (approximately £28,000) annually, which has since increased to €38,000. Despite having sufficient savings, their application was rejected by the Italian consulate in London due to the classification of their income.
The complexities of securing an Elective Residence Visa are notable. Each embassy or consulate administers its own interpretation of the law, resulting in varying requirements. Some consulates demand higher income thresholds, with certain guidelines recommending annual incomes of up to €62,000 for couples. The Ivesons found themselves at a disadvantage as the visa primarily caters to those with established passive income sources, such as pensions or rental income, effectively excluding younger individuals like themselves.
Reflecting on the impact of Brexit, Mr. Iveson noted, “It’s definitely been frustrating that the Brexit vote, which happened when we were 19, has had such a detrimental impact on our dream.” While Italy introduced a digital nomad visa in 2025 for remote workers, which requires an annual income of around €25,500, this option has not provided the relief the couple hoped for.
Currently, the Ivesons can only spend 90 days in Italy within a 180-day period, forcing them to adapt their plans. They now aim to visit Sambuca for several months each year, renting out their home to holidaymakers and using the income to further invest in the property. “In the future, we’re hoping we’ll be able to move to Sicily on the basis that our income is generated from guests staying with us,” Mr. Iveson stated.
The couple’s property is set on three acres of land, complete with olive trees, yet required extensive renovation to meet their needs. Their upgrades included replacing the roof, renovating bathrooms, and converting storage buildings into usable spaces. “When we found the lakefront farmhouse, it felt like home,” Mr. Iveson recalled.
Despite the obstacles, the Ivesons remain committed to their dream of living in Sicily full-time. They cherish the charm and history of Sambuca, which has a small population and a welcoming community of locals and expatriates. They enjoy the nearby beaches and scenic walks, finding a balance between tranquility and practicality in their surroundings.
“We’re not going to stop trying and hoping,” Mr. Iveson affirmed. He advocates for more options for young people and property owners abroad to remain in the European Union for longer periods. The couple’s experience highlights the challenges faced by others in similar situations, underscoring the need for more accessible pathways to residency for individuals looking to invest in their dreams.
