What you need to open an Italian bank account
Italian banks require a valid passport or national ID card, proof of your current address, and your tax identification number (called a codice fiscale). If you are a resident, you will also need proof of residency — typically a utility bill, rental agreement, or official residence registration. If you are visiting temporarily, some banks will accept a hotel booking or rental confirmation instead.
The codice fiscale is a 16-character alphanumeric code that Italy assigns to anyone living or working there. You can obtain one from the Agenzia delle Entrate (the Italian tax authority) at their local office, or sometimes the bank itself can help you request one during the account-opening process. This step usually takes a few days to a week.
Different banks have slightly different requirements — some ask for proof of income, others do not. Before visiting a branch, call or check the bank's website to confirm what documents they need. This saves a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a valid passport or ID card, proof of address, and an Italian tax identification number (codice fiscale) to open an account.
- The codice fiscale can take several days to obtain from the Agenzia delle Entrate, so request it early if you do not already have one.
- Italian banks vary in their requirements — some ask for proof of income or employment, while others do not, so confirm before you visit.
- Most Italian banks offer both in-person and online account opening, though online options are usually limited to residents with an Italian address.
- Monthly fees, minimum balances, and card costs differ between banks, so compare a few before deciding.
Getting your codice fiscale before opening the account
You cannot open a bank account without a codice fiscale, so this is your first step. If you are a new resident, you will need to register with the municipality (comune) where you live. Once registered, you can request the codice fiscale from the Agenzia delle Entrate office in your area.
Bring your passport, proof of address (such as a rental contract), and a completed form (available at the tax office or online). The process is free. You will receive your codice fiscale on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office's workload.
If you are staying temporarily and do not plan to register as a resident, you can still request a codice fiscale — tell the tax office you are a temporary resident. They will issue one for you, though the process may take longer.
Choosing between major banks and smaller alternatives
Italy's largest banks — Intesa Sanpaolo, UniCredit, and Banco BPM — have branches in most cities and towns. They offer the widest range of services and are familiar to most Italians. However, they typically charge monthly fees (ranging from nothing to around €10 per month, depending on the account type) and may require a minimum balance.
Smaller regional banks and online-only banks often have lower fees or no monthly charges. Banks like Widiba, Fineco, and ING Italia operate primarily online and may suit you if you are comfortable managing your account through an app or website. Online banks usually have faster account opening and lower costs, but they offer fewer physical branches if you need in-person help.
Before choosing, compare the monthly fee, any minimum balance requirement, debit card costs, and whether they offer services you need — such as international transfers or business accounts. Many banks let you see their fee schedule online without visiting a branch.
The in-person account opening process
Visit a branch of your chosen bank with your documents: passport or ID card, proof of address, and your codice fiscale. A bank employee will verify your identity, confirm your address, and ask basic questions about your employment or income. They will explain the account type, fees, and terms.
You will sign paperwork (usually in Italian, though some branches can provide English versions if you ask in advance). The bank will issue you a debit card, which typically arrives by mail within one to two weeks. Your account is usually active when ready, though you may not be able to use the card until it arrives.
Some banks offer a simplified process for basic savings accounts, which takes 15 to 30 minutes. More complex accounts with investment or credit features may take longer. Ask the bank how long the process will take before you visit.
Opening an account online if you are a resident
Several Italian banks allow you to open an account entirely online if you have an Italian address and a valid ID. You will upload photos of your documents, verify your identity (usually through video call with a bank employee), and sign electronically. The whole process can take 24 to 48 hours.
Online opening is faster and more convenient, but it is only available to people with a registered Italian address. If you are visiting or have just arrived and have not yet registered with the municipality, you will need to open an account in person at a branch.
Even if you open online, you will still receive a debit card by mail. Some online banks also let you use a temporary digital card through their app while you wait for the physical card to arrive.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is active, you can receive salary payments, make transfers, and use your debit card. If you are working in Italy, your employer will need your IBAN (International Bank Account Number) to pay you — your bank will provide this when you open the account.
Italian banks use SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) for transfers within Europe, which is fast and inexpensive. Transfers to countries outside Europe may take longer and cost more. Ask your bank about their international transfer fees if you plan to send money abroad regularly.
You can manage your account through online banking or a mobile app. Most Italian banks offer both. Set these up as soon as your account opens so you can check your balance and make transfers without visiting a branch.
Common issues and how to avoid them
The most common delay is not having a codice fiscale before visiting the bank. Request this as soon as you know you will be opening an account — do not wait until you are at the bank branch. If you do not have one, the bank may still open your account but will mark it as temporary until the codice fiscale is registered.
Some banks ask for proof of income or employment. If you are self-employed or retired, bring documentation showing your income — such as tax returns, pension statements, or a letter from your employer. If you have no income, some banks will still open a basic account, but may limit the services available.
Address proof can be tricky if you have just arrived. A utility bill in your name is ideal, but if you have not yet received one, a rental contract, hotel booking, or a letter from your landlord confirming your address will usually work. Call the bank beforehand to confirm what they will accept.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an Italian bank account without living in Italy?
Most Italian banks require proof of a current address in Italy, so opening an account as a non-resident is difficult. Some online banks or banks with international operations may offer accounts to people abroad, but they are rare. If you are planning to move to Italy, wait until you have secured housing and can provide proof of address.
How long does it take to get a debit card after opening an account?
Debit cards usually arrive by mail within one to two weeks. Some online banks offer a temporary digital card you can use when ready through their app. If you need a card urgently, ask the bank whether they can issue one in-branch on the day you open the account.
Do I need to speak Italian to open a bank account?
Many bank employees in larger cities speak English, especially in branches near tourist areas or business districts. Smaller towns may have less English-speaking staff. Bring a translation app or ask a friend to help if you are not confident in Italian. The paperwork is in Italian, but the bank should explain the key terms.
What is the difference between a conto corrente and a conto risparmio?
A conto corrente (current account) is for everyday use — it includes a debit card, online banking, and the ability to receive salary payments. A conto risparmio (savings account) is designed for saving money and typically offers lower fees but fewer services. Most people opening their first account in Italy choose a conto corrente.
Can I close my account if I leave Italy?
Yes. Contact your bank and request account closure. They will ask you to return your debit card and will transfer any remaining balance to another account you specify. The process usually takes one to two weeks. Some banks charge a small closure fee, so ask before you close.