Can foreigners really buy property in Italy?
You’ve fallen in love with Italy (who hasn’t?), and now you’re dreaming of a villa with olive trees and sunsets over rolling hills. But a question lingers: Can I, as a foreigner, legally buy property here?
The short answer: Yes. Absolutely.
The long answer? Read on — we’ll walk you through every detail.
Who can buy in Italy?
Italy has no legal restrictions for foreign nationals purchasing property.
If you’re from the EU, it’s as simple as buying in your own country.
If you’re from outside the EU (UK, US, Canada, Australia, etc.), here’s the good news:
-
- Italy has reciprocity agreements with most countries, allowing property purchase.
-
- No visa or residence permit is needed to own a property.
-
- You can visit up to 90 days every 180 days on a Schengen tourist visa.
Lussovera tip: Want to stay longer? Ask us about elective residency — perfect for retirees or digital nomads.
What’s the buying process?
Here’s the path from “maybe” to “mine”:
Get a codice fiscale
Think of this as your Italian tax code — it’s required for almost everything (including buying a home). We help you apply.
Open an Italian bank account
For payments, utilities, and taxes. It’s a simple process with the right support.
Hire a notary (notaio)
This independent legal officer handles the sale — they verify ownership, legal status, and register the deed. They represent the state, not the buyer or seller.
Sign the compromesso
This is the preliminary contract, including terms and deposit (typically 10–30%).
Final signing (Rogito)
This is the official transfer of ownership at the notary’s office. You’ll get the keys the same day!
What should you watch out for?
Italy’s property market isn’t as standardised as other countries. Here’s where things can go wrong:
-
- Unregistered renovations (common in rural homes)
-
- Shared ownership or inheritance complications
-
- Missing permits or building violations
-
- Complex inheritance taxes or family claims
That’s why we never let our clients go in alone. Our legal and technical experts check everything, so you don’t discover problems post-purchase.
Taxes & fees for foreign buyers
Buying from abroad doesn’t mean higher taxes — but you should plan for the following:
Cost item typical range
-
- Purchase tax (non-resident) 9% of cadastral value
-
- Notary fees €2.000 – €5.000
-
- Translator (if needed) €500 – €1.000
-
- Property taxes (annual) €800 – €1.500
Want a full breakdown? We provide one in every Lussovera dossier — tailored to your situation.
Can you buy remotely?
Yes. Many of our clients never set foot in Italy until the handover.
Through a power of attorney, Lussovera can manage:
-
- Property visits via video
-
- Legal negotiations
-
- Final signing at the notary
-
- Utility connections and handover
You just arrive with your luggage (and perhaps a bottle of celebration prosecco).
The Lussovera view
Owning a home in Italy is fully achievable, even from abroad.
But you do need local expertise — legal, technical, and personal.
At Lussovera, we handle every step:
From translating contracts to turning on the lights.
Final thought
Italy doesn’t just welcome visitors — it welcomes owners.
And if you’re dreaming of your own slice of olive-scented heaven, we’re here to make that dream real.