Lawyer
An expert in corporate and international corporate law. He has many years of experience in establishing and reorganizing companies, supporting M&A transactions, as well as providing legal support for opening and running a business in the EU, Asia, and North America.
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT IN ITALY
Whether you are an individual planning to purchase real estate or a legal entity expanding your business in the Italian market, opening a bank account in Italy is key.
So let’s look at the procedures, requirements, account types, tax aspects, AML/KYC regulations and features for residents, non-residents and companies.
Main types of bank accounts in Italy
- Basic account
This type of account is designed for individuals with simple financial needs or low incomes. It includes basic banking services (cash withdrawals, transfers, card) with restrictions on overdrafts and credit lines.
- Current account for residents
This is a standard current account for individuals who have resident status in Italy. It allows you to carry out a full range of transactions related to everyday needs.
- Conto currente per non residenti
Designed for foreigners who are not tax residents of Italy but have assets or income in this country. For example, property owners or those who receive income from Italian sources.
Account opening requirements
For residents
- Identification document (passport or carta d’identità).
- Codice fiscale is a mandatory tax identifier.
- Document proving address – certificato di residenza or utility bills.
For non-residents
- Passport or ID card (for EU citizens).
- Codice fiscale (can be obtained through the consulate or the Agenzia delle Entrate).
- Confirmation of residential address outside Italy.
- Documents about the source of income.
- Justification of the purpose of opening an account.
Legal entities registered in Italy have a much easier path to opening an account, especially if the ownership structure is fully transparent.
To open a bank account, an Italian company must provide:
- Atto Costitutivo (Constitutional Act) is the official document establishing a company;
- Statuto (Statute) — internal rules, management structure, objectives of the activity;
- Visura Camerale – an extract from the Chamber of Commerce confirming legal status;
- Codice Fiscale / Partita IVA – company tax code;
- Documents certifying the identities of directors, representatives and beneficiaries.
Account opening steps:
- Choosing a bank (traditional or online).
- Preparation of a package of documents.
- Application submission — online or in the office.
- Passing KYC/AML checks.
- Signing the contract.
- Account activation and receipt of IBAN details.
Italy is a member of the global financial monitoring system and is actively implementing EU directives on AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer).
The main act regulating this area is Decreto Legislativo 231/2007, which implements EU Directives 2005/60/EC, 2015/849 (4th AML Directive) and subsequent amendments.
Italian banks are required to:
- Identify the client and verify the accuracy of the data;
- Establish the actual owner of the company (Titolare Effettivo);
- Collect data on the source of funds;
- Report suspicious transactions to the UIF (Unità di Informazione Finanziaria) – an analogue of the Ukrainian State Financial Monitoring Service.
Pay attention to some features:
- Foreign companies undergo enhanced due diligence.
- High-risk clients may be denied without explanation.
- Banks have the right to request additional information at any stage of service.
The Italian banking sector is currently undergoing a transformation: traditional institutions coexist with digital banks and fintech platforms that offer more flexible conditions for entrepreneurs, startups and small companies.
The most popular fintech platforms are:
- Qonto — is designed for business, supports multi-user access, integration with accounting, and API.
- Revolut Business — multi-currency accounts, international transfers, cards.
- Wise Business (ex TransferWise) — profitable transfers, IBAN, support for freelancers.
- Tot — is a new generation Italian bank supporting small businesses.
- HYPE Business — is a convenient mobile platform with low commissions.
However, not all platforms issue a full IBAN suitable for international trade. They often do not accept clients from risky jurisdictions or complex ownership structures, and the account may not be suitable for large transactions or specialized activities (e.g. financial services).
Therefore, opening a bank account in Italy is a process that requires careful preparation of documents, compliance with AML/KYC requirements and understanding of legal features.
Given the development of online banking and the growing role of digital platforms, this process is becoming increasingly accessible. However, foreign companies should consider the risks and peculiarities of the local jurisdiction.
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