AIRE is the compulsory registry of Italian citizens living abroad.
Until December 31, 2024, Italian citizens will have access to discounted train tickets ranging from 20-80 per cent, thanks to an agreement between Trenitalia and The Italian Foreign Ministry.
Citizens who live abroad will also be eligible for high-speed rail ticket discounts of up to 40 per cent, as well as the Trenitalia ‘multi-ride’ ticket which is usually only for non-citizens.
“This initiative testifies to the attention [paid] to the bond with our compatriots abroad and [our] commitment to promoting abroad the beauty and riches of the entire national territory,” said Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
“Our fellow citizens abroad are an extraordinary asset for the growth of the country, which the government wants to enhance with initiatives such as this one.”
The announcement coincides with Italy announcing that 2024 is the year of ‘Roots Tourism’, where those of Italian descent, many of whom are citizens, are encouraged to travel to Italy to get in touch with their cultural heritage.
According to the Italian Foreign Ministry, 7 million Italian citizens live abroad, while around 80 million people worldwide have Italian heritage.