Money and Banking: Bank Account Requirements

Opening a local bank account can make residing abroad easier.

Banks have varying requirements to open an account.

By law, Italian banks are required to verify your identity before you can open an account. To do this, you must present primary photographic identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license, EU identity card), primary non-photographic identification (e.g., birth certificate, pension card, visa), proof of residence (recent utility bill), your Italian tax code (codice fiscale), a residence certificate or valid permit of stay, and proof of employment in Italy. A valid Italian mobile phone number may also be required. Contact your bank for its exact requirements.

Current and savings accounts are also available through the post office. The same documentation is required.

You’ll need to decide what type of account(s) to open, which will depend on how you like to access your money and how frequently you’d like to do so.