Buying a house in Italy as a foreigner may seem complicated, but with the right information and professional support, the process can be simple, safe, and transparent. In this updated 2025 guide, we explain step by step everything you need to know if you’re thinking about buying a home in Sardinia.

1. Who can buy a house in Italy?

The good news is that most foreign citizens can purchase property in Italy, whether they are residents or non-residents. Buyers from European Union countries face no restrictions. Citizens from non-EU countries can also buy, provided their country has a reciprocity agreement with Italy (for example: the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, etc.).

2. Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale)

To purchase property in Italy, you need an Italian tax code, a kind of personal identification number. You can obtain it at any local office of the Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate) or through a licensed consultant.

3. Opening a bank account in Italy

This is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended in order to manage all purchase-related expenses, such as tax payments, utility bills, and any renovation work.

4. Purchase offer and preliminary contract

The first concrete step is submitting a written purchase offer, followed by a preliminary agreement (“compromesso”) that defines the terms of the sale and includes a deposit. This stage involves legal and cadastral checks on the property—handled internally by ANEDDA. Real Estate.

5. Final deed (Rogito Notarile)

The transaction is finalized with the notarial deed of sale (“rogito”), signed in front of a notary. At this stage, the final payment is made, and you officially become the legal owner of the property.

Documents required for foreign buyers:

• Valid passport or ID card

• Italian tax code

• Bank details or documentation for money transfer

• Proof of legal funds for the purchase (anti-money laundering compliance)

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For Buyers:

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