Buying Property in Italy as a Foreigner: The Reciprocity

Many people want to invest in property in Italy and often ask whether foreign citizens can buy, or if only resident or Italian citizens are allowed to buy property in Italy.

As a general rule, in Italy the reciprocity rule applies; that means that if a foreign citizen can buy property in your country, you are allowed to buy in Italy.

However, there are some exemptions. Among others, EU citizens, holders of an EU long-term residence permit, work permit, family reasons permit, study permit, and all their family members who are legally residing in Italy, can buy property in Italy regardless of the reciprocity rule (Article 1 of DPR 394/99).

Therefore, if a foreigner is legally residing in Italy but does not hold one of the aforementioned residence permits, for example they hold a permit for elective residency, they will be able to purchase property in Italy if there is reciprocity between Italy and their country of origin. This means the laws of their home country must grant Italian citizens the same rights to purchase property within its territory.

This article is not exhaustive and is a guidance only.

If you need assistance with buying a property in Italy, please do get in touch.

Barbara De Benedittis Relocation and Legal in Italy