There is a freephone number for information.
NU-me-ro VER-de — stress the first syllable of numero and the first of verde; this is a compound noun functioning as a fixed phrase.
Use this when directing someone to a helpline or when asking if a freephone service exists. Numero verde (literally 'green number') is the Italian term for freephone numbers, which are common for public services, utilities, and government agencies.
Numero verde (numbers starting with 800) are freephone lines in Italy, free to call from both landlines and mobiles. Most major public services have them: INPS, Agenzia delle Entrate, Poste Italiane, ASL, and many comuni. They are often quicker than visiting in person for preliminary questions and guidance.
Il numero verde dell'INPS è 803.164.
INPS's freephone number is 803.164.
The actual INPS number; useful information for Italian residents.
Puoi chiamare gratuitamente anche dal cellulare.
You can call for free even from a mobile.
Important clarification; Italian 800 numbers are free from mobiles as well as landlines since 2019.
Prima di andare di persona, prova a chiamare.
Before going in person, try calling.
Practical advice that can save hours of travel and waiting.
Italy's numero verde system was created in the 1980s as part of telecommunications liberalisation. The green colour (verde) refers to the green label on early freephone directories, distinguishing them from paid numbers. The system is now so embedded in Italian culture that 'numero verde' has become a generic term for any customer service helpline, even when the number is not technically 800.