If you are planning to move to Italy or buy property, you will need a codice fiscale and, in some cases, a residence permit. Here is the clear 2026 breakdown of what foreign buyers actually need — and how to get it remotely.
If you are planning to move to Italy or buy property, you will need a codice fiscale and, in some cases, a residence permit. The codice fiscale is required for any legal or financial transaction, while the residence permit is only necessary if you plan to stay in Italy for more than 90 days. Today, many applicants obtain their codice fiscale remotely through a legal representative in Italy.
Do You Really Need Both?
This is one of the most common points of confusion for foreign clients.
In practice, the codice fiscale is always required, while the residence permit depends on your situation.
If your goal is simply to buy property in Italy, you do not need a residence permit. However, you cannot proceed without a codice fiscale, as it is required for signing the notarial deed, opening a bank account, and handling any utility contracts.
The residence permit only becomes relevant if you intend to live in Italy for more than 90 days.
What Is a Codice Fiscale and Why It Comes First
The codice fiscale is essentially your tax identification number in Italy. It is issued by the Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate) and is used in every legal and financial interaction.
In real estate transactions, it is one of the very first requirements. Without it, a notary cannot complete the purchase.
In our experience, most international buyers request it well before coming to Italy, especially when planning a closing date.
Can You Get a Codice Fiscale Remotely in 2026?
Yes — and this is where things have evolved significantly in recent years.
While it is still possible to apply directly at an Italian consulate, many consulates today inform applicants that processing times can be long or that they cannot issue it immediately.
For this reason, they often suggest an alternative approach: appointing a legal representative in Italy who can apply on your behalf at the Agenzia delle Entrate.
This has become standard practice, particularly for:
- US and UK buyers purchasing property remotely
- Clients working with tight timelines (e.g. upcoming notarial deed)
- Investors who have not yet travelled to Italy
In practical terms, the process works as follows:
- You sign a delegation
- Your lawyer submits the application directly in Italy
- The codice fiscale is issued within a few days
This approach is fully compliant with Italian regulations and is often the fastest and most reliable solution.
When a Residence Permit Is Actually Required
The residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) is a separate matter and is often misunderstood.
You only need it if you plan to stay in Italy beyond the standard 90-day Schengen limit.
Typical cases include:
- relocating permanently
- retiring in Italy under elective residency
- working or starting a business
- long-term stays as a digital nomad
Of course, if you are simply purchasing a property as an investment or second home and staying short-term, no residence permit is required.
How the Residence Permit Process Works
Unlike the codice fiscale, the residence permit cannot be obtained remotely. The process starts after you enter Italy and must be initiated within 8 days of arrival, only after having obtained a long-term visa.
You will need to:
- submit an application through the postal system
- attend an appointment at the local police headquarters (Questura)
- provide biometric data
- wait for the permit to be issued
Processing times can vary, but in most cases range between 2 and 4 months, according to data from the Italian Ministry of the Interior (2026 update).
A Practical Timeline for Buyers
In real transactions, this is how things typically unfold:
- The codice fiscale is obtained first, often remotely through a lawyer
- The property purchase can proceed without any residence requirement
- The residence permit is only addressed later, if relocation is your final goal
This distinction is crucial and often overlooked by first-time buyers.
Common Mistakes We See
Many delays and complications come from simple misunderstandings. The most frequent issues include:
- assuming a residence permit is required to buy property
- waiting too long to request a codice fiscale
- relying solely on consulate timelines when a faster legal route is available
- confusing visa requirements with residency obligations
Addressing these points early can significantly streamline the process.
FAQ
Do I need a residence permit to buy property in Italy?
No, only a codice fiscale is required.
Can I get a codice fiscale without going to Italy?
Yes, through a legal representative.
How long does it take to get a codice fiscale?
Usually, a few days if requested through a lawyer in Italy.
When is a residence permit mandatory?
Only if you stay in Italy longer than 90 days.
Can a consulate issue the codice fiscale?
Yes, but many now recommend applying through a representative in Italy.
Conclusion
For foreign buyers, the key takeaway is simple: the codice fiscale is essential and immediate, while the residence permit is situational.
Understanding this difference — and knowing that the codice fiscale can often be obtained remotely through a legal representative — allows you to move forward quickly and avoid unnecessary delays.
Ready to Secure Your Italian Paperwork?
If you are planning to purchase property or relocate to Italy, our legal team can assist you with obtaining your codice fiscale remotely and managing the entire process.
Contact ITALYCARE 360 for tailored assistance and due diligence support.