After you find your perfect mid to long-term housing, whether it is in Milan, Rome, or any other city, at some point, you will have to open a bank account in Italy. The task of opening a bank account is surprisingly easy in this country and Spotahome is here to guide you through the entire process.

Difficulty: Easy

Top 5 banks in Italy: Unicredit – Capitalia, Banco Popolare, Intesa Sanpaolo, Mediobanca, Ubi Banca

Types of banks: Ordinary commercial or credit banks, co-operative banks (banchi popolari cooperative) and co-operative credit banks (banche di credito cooperativo).

Types of bank accounts: Resident, non-resident

Documents you will need

For non-resident account: ID, Italian tax code (codice fiscale), Proof of address.

For resident account: Residence permit or work contract, ID, Italian tax code

Non-residents can apply for their codice fiscale for free at any tax office (Agenzia delle Entrate), through an Embassy or Italian consular office. If applying in person, the tax code certificate is issued on the same day. All you need is your passport.

Best Italian banks for expats

Unicredit, Banco di Napoli, Banca Nazionale del Lavoro

English speaking banks in Italy: Intesa Sanpaolo and other larger organisations.

Waiting time

Two to three weeks to receive your bank card.