Yes, you can open a bank account in Italy, but the process and requirements depend on whether you live there
Non-residents can open bank accounts in Italy, but you will face more restrictions and paperwork than an Italian resident would. Most Italian banks require you to be physically present to open an account in person — remote opening is rare and usually only available to EU citizens with existing ties to Italy. The account itself works the same way once it is open, but getting there takes planning.
If you are an EU citizen, the process is simpler than for non-EU citizens. If you are a non-EU citizen, you will need a residence permit or visa, a tax identification number, and proof of address. Some banks will not open accounts for non-residents at all, so you cannot assume your first choice will work.
Key Takeaways
- Non-residents must visit a bank branch in person to open an account; remote opening is not standard practice in Italy.
- EU citizens need a passport, proof of address, and a tax identification number; non-EU citizens also need a residence permit or long-term visa.
- Not all Italian banks accept non-residents, so contact your chosen bank before traveling to confirm they will open an account for you.
- The process typically takes one to three weeks after your in-person visit, depending on the bank's verification procedures.
- You will need an Italian tax identification number (codice fiscale), which you can request at the local tax office or sometimes through the bank itself.
What you need to bring to open an account as a non-resident
Bring your passport or national ID card, proof of address (a utility bill, rental agreement, or hotel booking confirmation), and your tax identification number if you already have one. If you do not have a codice fiscale (Italian tax ID), you can request one at the Agenzia delle Entrate (the Italian tax authority office) before opening the account, or ask the bank whether they can help you obtain one as part of the account opening process.
For non-EU citizens, bring your residence permit or long-term visa. A tourist visa is not enough; the bank needs proof that you have legal status to stay in Italy for a meaningful period. If you are relocating to Italy, bring your employment contract or rental agreement showing your intention to remain.
Some banks ask for proof of income or employment. This might be a recent payslip, a letter from your employer, or proof of pension or investment income. The requirement varies by bank and by the type of account you want to open.
Which Italian banks accept non-residents
The major banks — Intesa Sanpaolo, UniCredit, and Banco BPM — generally accept non-residents, but policies vary by branch. Smaller regional banks may be more restrictive. Online-only banks like Revolut, N26, and Wise operate in Italy and often have simpler requirements for non-residents, though they may not offer the full range of services a traditional bank does.
Before you travel, call or email the specific branch where you plan to open the account. Ask directly: "Do you open accounts for non-residents?" and "What documents do I need to bring?" This saves you a wasted trip. Some branches will tell you they cannot help; others will confirm they can and may even prepare the paperwork in advance.
If you are opening an account to receive salary or pension payments, mention that when you contact the bank. Some banks prioritize non-residents who have a regular income source in Italy.
Getting your Italian tax identification number before opening the account
You will need a codice fiscale to open most bank accounts. If you do not have one, you can request it at the Agenzia delle Entrate office in the city where you will be opening your account. Bring your passport, proof of address, and a completed form (available at the office or online). The process takes about 10 minutes, and you receive the number when ready.
Alternatively, some banks will help you obtain the codice fiscale as part of the account opening process, though this may add a few days to the timeline. Ask the bank whether they offer this service when you contact them in advance.
If you are a non-EU citizen, you may also need to register with the local police (questura) within eight days of arrival. This is a separate requirement from the tax ID, but the police office can sometimes help you with the codice fiscale process as well.
How long the account opening process takes
The in-person visit itself usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. The bank will verify your documents, take your information, and explain the account terms. You may sign documents on the spot or receive them to sign later.
After your visit, the bank needs time to verify your identity and documents with Italian authorities. This typically takes one to three weeks. Some banks are faster; others take longer depending on how busy they are and whether they need to request additional information from you.
You will usually receive your debit card and account details by mail within two to four weeks of approval. Until then, you may be able to access your account online or by phone, but you cannot withdraw cash or make in-person transactions.
What types of accounts are available to non-residents
Most banks offer a basic current account (conto corrente) to non-residents. This is a checking account that allows deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and bill payments. Some banks charge a monthly or annual fee; others waive fees for accounts that meet a minimum balance or receive regular deposits.
Savings accounts and investment accounts may have stricter requirements or may not be available to non-residents at all. Ask the bank what account types they offer to non-residents and what the fees are before you open the account.
If you only need to receive payments or send money occasionally, an online bank or money transfer service like Wise or Revolut may be simpler and faster than a traditional bank account.
Restrictions and ongoing requirements for non-resident accounts
Some Italian banks limit the amount of money you can transfer out of the country each month or require you to notify them before making large international transfers. These rules vary by bank and by your citizenship.
You will need to keep your address on file current. If you move, notify the bank in writing. If your visa or residence permit expires, the bank may freeze or close your account, so plan ahead if your legal status in Italy is temporary.
Italian banks are required to report account information to your home country's tax authority under international tax agreements. This means your Italian bank account may be reported to the IRS (if you are a US citizen), HMRC (if you are a UK citizen), or your country's equivalent. This is not a problem if you are reporting your accounts correctly, but it is something to be aware of.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an Italian bank account online without visiting in person?
Most traditional Italian banks require an in-person visit. Online-only banks like Revolut, N26, and Wise may allow remote opening, but they have different features and limitations than a traditional bank account. Check the specific bank's requirements before assuming you can open remotely.
What if I do not have a residence permit yet?
You will need some form of legal status to open an account. If you are waiting for a residence permit, bring your visa or a letter from the immigration office showing your process is pending. Some banks will accept this; others will ask you to return once your permit arrives.
Do I need an Italian address to open an account?
Yes, most banks require proof of address in Italy. A hotel booking, Airbnb confirmation, or rental agreement showing your Italian address will work. A foreign address will not be accepted.
Can I use an Italian bank account if I move back to my home country?
Yes, you can keep the account open and use it for transfers and payments. However, some banks may close accounts if you move away permanently, so contact your bank if your situation changes. You may also face restrictions on international transfers depending on your new country of residence.
What happens if my visa expires?
Contact your bank before your visa expires. Some banks will close the account; others will allow you to keep it if you maintain it remotely. Plan ahead so you are not locked out of your money.