Buying a house for €1 in Italy is an unusual but genuine opportunity. It appeals not only to Italians looking to swap city life for a quieter village setting, but also to international buyers who want to experience life in Italy without a huge upfront property cost.
Below, you’ll find a clear overview of how the €1 house scheme works, the documents required to buy a house in Italy, and what you need to know about visiting Italy and obtaining residency.
How does buying a house for €1 work for non-Italian citizens?
Foreign nationals, including those who do not live in Italy and do not hold Italian citizenship, can take part in the €1 house project and purchase property at a symbolic price.
To buy a house for €1 in Italy, there must be a reciprocal agreement between Italy and the buyer’s country of origin. This principle of reciprocity allows foreign citizens to purchase property in Italy if Italians are granted similar rights in their country.
An Italian tax code (codice fiscale) is compulsory. This is required to pay taxes and acts as your official identification number when dealing with public authorities and government offices in Italy.
The Italian Revenue Agency issues the tax code. Through its Fisconline service, the code can be assigned quickly via an online application. A valid identity document must be submitted when requesting it.
A house for one euro: the documents required
When applying to purchase a €1 home, applicants must submit the following documentation:
- A detailed report outlining the proposed renovation project, specifying the type of work planned and aligning it with the priorities set by the municipal authority. The proposal should also reflect the applicant’s suitability to carry out the project.
- Documentation proving that all required eligibility criteria are met.
- A formal declaration committing to sign the public deed of transfer and to cover all related costs.
In most cases, the Municipality also requires a surety bond of €5,000. This serves as a guarantee that renovation work will be completed within the agreed timeframe.
Visiting Italy and obtaining residency
Anyone planning to visit Italy must hold at least one of the following: a valid visa, a temporary residence permit, or Italian citizenship, depending on their nationality.
Foreign nationals entering Italy through the external borders of the Schengen Area must:
- Enter through an authorised border crossing point.
- Hold a valid passport or recognised travel document.
- Provide documentation explaining the purpose of their stay and show proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of their stay and return travel.
- Hold a valid entry or transit visa, where required.
- Not be listed for refusal of entry in the Schengen Information System.
- Not be considered a threat to public order, national security or international relations.
Failure to meet even one of these requirements may result in refusal of entry. As immigration rules and procedures can change, it is advisable to consult official Italian government sources before travelling.
Living in Italy: useful information for foreigners
Relocating to Italy depends on where you're coming from, of course. Citizens of Schengen countries may enter Italy and stay for up to 90 days without a residence permit for tourism or investment purposes. Different rules apply for stays linked to employment, self-employment, study or internships.
All foreign nationals are required to declare their presence in Italy within eight days of arrival. This is done by submitting the appropriate form to the local Police Headquarters (Questura).
One-euro houses: how the scheme works
The 1 Euro Homes project involves properties that have been transferred to a Municipality and are resold for the symbolic price of one euro. The Municipality oversees the process and ensures the transaction's legality, although the sale itself takes place between private parties.
Buyers of €1 homes must agree to several obligations:
- Present and carry out a renovation and redevelopment plan within a timeframe set by the Municipality.
- Pay all notary, registration and land registry fees related to the purchase.
- Begin renovation work within the established deadline.
Municipalities may also request a surety bond ranging between €1,000 and €5,000, depending on local regulations.
To take part in the initiative, interested buyers must contact the relevant Municipality directly.
- In some cases, specific application forms must be completed.
- Eligible applicants typically include sole traders, companies, agencies, private Italian citizens, EU and non-EU citizens, and trade associations.
User FAQs
How can a foreigner buy a house in Italy?
Foreigners can buy property in Italy if reciprocity agreements are in place. In many cases, residency in Italy is required, meaning a valid residence permit or residence card must be obtained.
Who issues tax codes for foreigners?
The Italian tax code for foreigners is issued through the Police Headquarters via an electronic connection with the Tax Registry. Once assigned, it can be used to apply for or renew a residence permit.
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