Best Banking Options for Expats in Italy (2026)

Getting a codice fiscale is straightforward: visit any Agenzia delle Entrate office with your passport. EU citizens get it immediately; non-EU citizens may need additional documentation. Some Italian consulates abroad also issue them.

Unlike the NIE in Spain, the codice fiscale itself doesn't require residency—you can get one as a tourist. However, many banks require both codice fiscale AND Italian residency to open accounts.

Digital banks like Wise and Revolut don't require a codice fiscale. N26, when used in Italy, does require one but can provide an Italian IBAN—a useful middle ground.

Wise offers multi-currency accounts with excellent exchange rates and low transfer fees. No codice fiscale required. You can open an account before arriving in Italy and have functional banking immediately.

The Belgian IBAN works for SEPA transfers throughout Europe. Most Italian businesses accept any EU IBAN, though some landlords and employers specifically require Italian IBANs.

For anyone receiving income in non-EUR currencies, Wise is typically the cheapest way to convert and spend. The debit card works everywhere with no foreign transaction fees.

N26 is available in Italy with a key advantage: Italian residents can get an Italian IBAN (starting with IT). This satisfies requirements that other digital banks can't meet.

The catch: you need a codice fiscale and Italian residence to get the Italian IBAN option. If you're not yet resident, N26 defaults to a German IBAN—still useful but no different from using N26 elsewhere.

For expats planning to establish residency, N26 offers a path to Italian banking without traditional bank bureaucracy. The app is English-friendly, and the account is free.

Italian banks are bureaucratic by reputation—and the reputation is earned. Expect appointments, paperwork, and multiple visits. Some branches are more expat-friendly than others; Milan and Rome have branches accustomed to foreigners.

You'll typically need: codice fiscale, passport, proof of Italian address (rental contract), and often proof of income or employment. Requirements vary by bank and branch—call ahead.

When do you need a traditional Italian bank? Mortgages, car loans, some rental contracts, employers who insist on Italian IBANs, and building long-term credit history. For basic banking, digital alternatives are easier.

Before/on arrival: Open Wise and/or Revolut. These work immediately with no Italian documentation. Handle initial spending and transfers here.

First priority: Get your codice fiscale. This is quick and unlocks other services. You can do this without residency.

Once resident: Consider N26 for an Italian IBAN without traditional bank pain. Or pursue a traditional bank if you need specific services (mortgage, certain employers).

Long-term: Most expats maintain digital banks for international transfers and a local option (N26 or traditional) for Italian-specific needs.

Milan has the most expat-friendly banking infrastructure. Major bank branches in the center are accustomed to foreigners and may have English-speaking staff.

Rome is more variable—some branches are helpful, others less so. Persistence and trying multiple branches often works.

Smaller cities and southern Italy may have less experience with foreign account holders. Budget extra time and patience.

Regardless of location, having all documentation ready and making appointments (rather than walk-ins) improves outcomes.