Buying Property in Italy as a U.S. Citizen: A Complete Guide

Buying property in Italy is a goal many Americans consider—whether for lifestyle reasons, family ties, or long-term planning. From city apartments to countryside homes, the Italian real estate market offers a wide range of options. Still, buying property in Italy as a U.S. citizen works differently than buying a home in the United States, and understanding the process ahead of time helps set realistic expectations.

This guide explains how buying real estate in Italy generally works for Americans, including eligibility, typical steps, costs, and common misconceptions—without assuming any one-size-fits-all approach.

Can Americans Buy Property in Italy?

Yes—Americans can buy property in Italy. Italy allows foreign nationals to purchase real estate based on a principle known as reciprocity. Because Italians are permitted to buy property in the United States, U.S. citizens are allowed to purchase property in Italy as well.

Some important clarifications:

• Italian citizenship is not required to buy property
• Residency is not required to complete a purchase
• Property ownership does not automatically provide immigration or residency rights

Understanding these distinctions early helps avoid confusion later in the process.

Types of Property Americans Commonly Buy in Italy

U.S. citizens purchase many different types of property in Italy, depending on their goals and budget.

Common options include:

• Apartments in cities or historic town centers
• Villas or single-family homes
• Townhouses in smaller municipalities
• Rural homes and farmhouses
• Properties intended for long-term or short-term rental

Each type of property may involve different costs, maintenance expectations, and local requirements.

The General Process of Buying Property in Italy

While individual transactions vary, purchasing property in Italy typically follows a consistent structure.

Obtaining a Codice Fiscale

A Codice Fiscale is an Italian tax identification number used for administrative purposes. It is commonly required during property transactions and for setting up utilities or accounts related to ownership.

U.S. citizens can request a Codice Fiscale through an Italian consulate or while in Italy.

Banking and Payments

Some buyers choose to open an Italian bank account to manage payments related to the purchase and ongoing ownership costs. Others use international payment services depending on the circumstances of the transaction.

Whether an account is needed often depends on how the purchase is structured.

Making an Offer

Once a property is selected, an offer is submitted. If accepted, the transaction moves forward toward a preliminary agreement. At this stage, timelines, deposits, and conditions are outlined in writing.

Preliminary Agreement

The preliminary contract—often called a compromesso—sets the terms of the sale. This document reflects the agreed price, timing, and expectations for both parties.

Because this agreement establishes obligations for buyer and seller, many buyers take time to review details carefully before proceeding.

Final Transfer of Ownership

Ownership officially transfers at the final signing, known as the rogito. At this point, the transaction is completed and the property is registered in the buyer’s name. Buyers who are not present in Italy sometimes complete this step remotely through authorized representation.

Costs Associated With Buying Property in Italy

In addition to the purchase price, buyers should plan for additional expenses, which may include:

• Purchase-related taxes
• Administrative and registration fees
• Notary-related costs
• Real estate agency commissions

Combined, these costs often total approximately 7–10% of the property price, though the exact amount varies based on property type and usage.

Ongoing Costs of Owning Property in Italy

After purchase, ongoing expenses may include:

• Annual property taxes (such as IMU for non-primary residences)
• Utilities and routine maintenance
• Condominium or shared building fees, if applicable
• Insurance
• Income reporting if the property is rented

These costs vary by location, property type, and how the home is used.

Does Buying a Home in Italy Provide Residency or Citizenship?

This is a common area of misunderstanding.

• Buying a home in Italy does not grant residency
• Property ownership alone does not lead to Italian citizenship

While owning property may support certain long-term stay plans, residency and citizenship follow separate processes with their own requirements.

Financing Property in Italy as a U.S. Citizen

Many Americans purchase Italian property using personal funds, but other options may be available depending on individual circumstances.

Potential approaches include:

• Italian financing options for non-residents
• Financing secured through U.S.-based assets
• Currency exchange planning for international transfers

Availability and terms vary widely, and financing often involves additional planning.

Common Misconceptions to Avoid

When buying property in Italy, Americans often encounter misleading assumptions, such as:

• Believing ownership grants automatic residency
• Expecting timelines similar to U.S. real estate transactions
• Underestimating renovation or maintenance costs
• Assuming all properties are immediately habitable
• Relying solely on informal advice or online listings

Approaching the process with patience and clear expectations helps reduce surprises.

Where Americans Commonly Buy Property in Italy

Location preferences vary widely, but popular choices include:

• Northern regions with strong infrastructure
• Central regions known for history and culture
• Southern regions offering lower entry prices
• Island properties with distinct logistical considerations

Urban and rural areas differ significantly in pricing, services, and ownership responsibilities.

How Long Does Buying Property in Italy Take?

From accepted offer to final transfer, buying a home in Italy often takes two to four months, though timelines depend on:

• Property documentation
• Municipal records
• Buyer availability
• Transaction complexity

Properties requiring renovation or additional approvals may take longer.

Considering Italian Citizenship Instead of Just Property Ownership?

For some Americans, buying property in Italy is only part of a bigger goal—Italian citizenship. While owning a home does not grant citizenship on its own, many U.S. citizens qualify for Italian citizenship through ancestry, marriage, or long-term legal pathways.

If your long-term plan includes living, working, or staying in Italy without visa limitations, dual Italian-American citizenship may offer far more flexibility than property ownership alone.

Our team at Italian American Citizenship Assistance Program helps Americans understand whether they qualify for dual Italy–U.S. citizenship and guides them through the documentation, application, and consular or court-based processes involved. For those looking to turn a connection to Italy into permanent legal status, exploring citizenship alongside property plans can be a smart next step.