FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

The COMITES

• What is COMITES?

  The COMITES (Committee of Italians Abroad) is a representative body directly elected by Italian citizens residing abroad and registered with AIRE. Its task is to represent the needs of the local Italian community and to promote cultural, social, and informational activities.

• What is the mission of COMITES?

  The COMITES' mission is to represent the needs of the Italian community, promote integration in the territory, advance Italian culture, and collaborate with Italian institutions abroad.

• Is the COMITES part of the Consulate?

  No. The COMITES is a representative body elected by the Italian community. The Consulate is an office of the Italian State that provides administrative services.

• Is the COMITES a government body?

  No. It is a representative body of the Italian community abroad recognized by Italian law.

• Who elects the COMITES?

  Italian citizens residing abroad registered with AIRE.

• How often are elections held?

  Elections are held in accordance with current Italian law.

• Can I attend the meetings?

  Many activities and meetings are open to the public. Consult the COMITES South Florida event calendar.

• Does the COMITES receive public funds?

  Yes. Part of the activities is financed in accordance with Italian regulations.

• Can I volunteer?

  Yes. The COMITES often collaborates with local volunteers and associations.

• How can I support the COMITES?

  Participating in events, proposing initiatives, and collaborating on community projects.

CONSULATE AND CONSULAR SERVICES

• Can the COMITES renew my passport?

  No. Passport renewal is the sole responsibility of the Consulate.

• Can COMITES schedule an appointment for me?

  No. Consular appointments must be requested through the Consulate's official channels.

• Can the COMITES speed up a procedure?

  No. COMITES cannot influence or expedite consular procedures.

• Can the COMITES check the status of my application?

  No. Only the Consulate can provide official updates on ongoing cases.

• I lost my passport. What should I do?

  Contact the relevant Italian Consulate immediately and, if necessary, local authorities.

• I need a notarized document.

  Authentications are the responsibility of the consulate.

• I need to register a birth.

  The registration of civil status records is carried out through the Consulate.

• I need to register a marriage.

  Marriage registration is a consular function.

• I need to register a divorce.

  Civil status matters are handled by the Consulate.

AIR

• What is AIRE?

  AIRE is the registry of Italians residing abroad.

• Is enrollment in AIRE mandatory?

  Yes, for those residing abroad for more than 12 months.

• How do I register for AIRE?

  Through the FAST IT portal or via the competent Consulate.

• Can I register with AIRE through COMITES?

  No.

• How long does registration take?

  The times depend on the Consulate and the completeness of the documentation.

• How do I update my address?

  Through FAST IT or the Consulate.

• I changed my place of residence.

  You need to update your AIRE registration.

• I've changed my email address.

  You can update the data through the competent consular channels.

• Can I cancel my AIRE registration?

  Yes, by stably returning to Italy and registering your new residency with the municipality.

• What happens if I don't sign up?

  You may encounter difficulties accessing consular services for residents abroad.

CITIZENSHIP

• Can I get Italian citizenship?

  It depends on your personal situation and current regulations.

• Can the COMITES follow up on my case?

  No.

• Can the COMITES verify documents?

  No.

• How do I know if I'm eligible for citizenship?

  You must consult the Consulate or a qualified professional.

• How long does a citizenship application take?

  Times vary depending on the type of procedure.

• Can I appeal through the COMITES?

  No.

• Can I get general information?

  Yes, the COMITES can provide general guidance.

• Can I apply for citizenship through marriage?

  Updated information must be requested from the Consulate.

• Can I apply for citizenship by descent?

  The procedures are handled by the competent authorities.

• Does the COMITES issue certificates?

  No.

OVERSEAS VOTING

• Can I vote from abroad?

  Yes, if you are registered with AIRE and meet the legal requirements.

• How do I receive electoral materials?

  It is sent to the address registered with AIRE.

• I have not received the electoral package.

  Contact the competent Consulate.

• Can I vote online?

  No, unless there are future legislative changes.

• Can I vote if I am not registered with AIRE?

  Generally not for voting abroad.

• Can I delegate my vote?

  No.

• Can I vote for COMITES?

  Yes, when the elections are called.

• Who can apply?

  According to the requirements established by law.

• Where can I find information about the elections?

  At the Consulate and the COMITES.

• How are the votes counted?

  According to the official procedures provided by Italian regulations.

New arrivals in Florida

• I just arrived. Where do I start?

  We recommend registering with AIRE and learning about the services available in your area.

• Is there an Italian community in South Florida?

  Yes, very active and present in several counties.

• How can I meet other Italians?

  Participating in events organized by Italian associations and COMITES.

• Are there Italian schools?

  Yes, there are educational programs and Italian language courses.

• Can I get assistance with integration?

  The COMITES can direct you to useful resources.

• Are there local Italian associations?

  Yes.

• How do I find Italian professionals?

  The COMITES can direct you to professional associations or networks.

• Are there groups for young Italians?

  Yes, depending on the initiatives present in the area.

• Are there family-friendly activities?

  Yes.

• Are there Italian cultural events?

  Yes, throughout the year.

Social Assistance and Services

• Does the COMITES offer financial assistance?

  No.

• Can I get help with emergencies?

  In case of emergency, immediately contact the competent authorities.

• Does the COMITES offer support to the elderly?

  Can you direct me to available resources and associations?.

• Are there services for vulnerable people?

  Yes, through specialized organizations.

• Can I receive legal advice?

  No.

• Can I get tax advice?

  No.

• Can I receive immigration advice?

  No.

• Can I receive healthcare assistance?

  For health matters, consult industry professionals.

• Are there programs for students?

  Depending on the available initiatives.

• Are there scholarships?

  Opportunities are periodically published by Italian and international organizations.

EVENTS AND CULTURE

• What events does COMITES organize?

  Cultural, social, educational, and informational events.

• How can I find out about upcoming events?

  On the COMITES website and social media channels.

• Can I suggest an event?

  Yes.

• Can I collaborate as a sponsor?

  Yes.

• Can I organize an event together with COMITES?

  Proposals are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

• Do you organize Italian language courses?

  It depends on the ongoing initiatives.

• Do you organize Italian holiday celebrations?

  Often yes.

• Do you collaborate with Italian associations?

  Yes.

• Can I promote my association?

  Is it possible to submit a proposal.

• How can I stay updated?

  Following the COMITES South Florida website and social media.