Istat launches 2026 permanent population census in Italy

Istat, Italy’s national statistics institute, is launching the 2026 permanent census of the population and housing on October 5. The survey will involve approximately one million families across 2,529 municipalities nationwide.

This annual census uses a representative sampling method rather than a decennial count of the entire population. It aims to collect essential socio-economic data, including education levels, employment status, housing characteristics, and mobility patterns. These statistics are vital for regional and local public service planning and infrastructure development.

Selected families will receive official letters containing credentials to complete the questionnaire online via the Istat portal or using digital identity tools like SPID. The online submission period runs from October 5 to December 6. To ensure high participation, municipalities are providing assistance through local census centers, telephone interviews, or home visits. Participation is a legal obligation. The full data collection phase is scheduled to conclude by December 23, 2026.