I’m a foreigner, can I buy property in Italy?

This is a question very often asked. People from all over the world are fascinated by Italy and want to invest in the Bel Paese. Unfortunately not everyone can buy a property in Italy, though.

In Italy there is a rule called “reciprocity”: basically, the rules valid in your country for Italians (or foreigners) who want to buy properties, are valid for you in Italy.

Some countries, for example, have limitations on the size of property foreigners can buy (Switzerland); some others have recently banned foreigners to invest in property in an effort to calm down property prices (Canada); some others have banned foreigners non-resident to buy (New Zealand) and so on.

It’s therefore easy to determine if you can buy a property in Italy: you just need to find out if Italians, or foreigners in general, can buy a property in your country. The same rule will apply to you in Italy.

If you have dual citizenship, and one of the country you are citizen of has some sort of restrictions, you could invest in Italy using the other passport, given that in that other country you are citizen of, there are no restrictions in place.

This article is not exhaustive and is a guidance only.

If you are not familiar with the buying process in Italy and need assistance, we can help; please contact us.

Barbara De Benedittis Relocation and Legal in Italy