Renting property in Italy as a Foreigner:

What you need to know in 2025.

Renting in Italy

So you may have just made the big move to Italy, or are trying to line somewhere up before you arrive. Either way there a couple of considerations when it comes to renting in a new country. This is a practical and legal focused guide, compiled with all the info that you’ll need to be a successful expat.

If you haven’t made the move yet, our moving to Italy from the UK guide is the perfect starting point.

renting property in italy as a foreigner

Can Foreigners Rent property in Italy?

In short. Yes! And this even includes non-EU citizens. However there are some key considerations. You don’t need to be an Italian resident to sign a lease, but most landlords will want to see the following:

A passport or ID
Your codice fiscale (Italian tax ID)
Proof of income or employment
A valid visa or residence permit if you’re staying long term

If you’re renting for over 30 days, your lease usually needs to be registered with the Agenzia delle Entrate, Italy’s tax agency.

Where to Find Rental Listings

Online Property Portals

The easiest way to find properties in Italy is through trusted online portals:

Idealista.it – the most popular, English interface available
Casa.it – solid for mid- to high-end rentals
Subito.it – more local, often unfurnished or private listings

These sites often feature both agency-managed and private rentals.

Facebook Groups & Word of Mouth

In major cities, local Facebook groups like “Expats in Milan” or “Rome Housing & Rentals” are active and helpful. That said, be careful—these are unregulated spaces and scams are common.

Rental Scams to Watch Out For

Unfortunately, scams are part of the rental game in Italy—especially in larger cities.

⚠️ Common red flags:

Landlord asks for money before you’ve viewed the property
No formal contract is provided
Prices are too good to be true
Poor communication or pressure to act quickly

Always view the property in person (or via a verified video call), and insist on written contracts.

How Italian Rental Contracts Work

Italy uses two main types of long-term rental contracts:

“4+4” Contract

Four-year lease, automatically renewable for another four
Standard for long-term rentals
Landlord can only terminate under specific legal reasons

“3+2” Contract

Three-year lease with an optional two-year renewal
Often used in more flexible arrangements
Sometimes comes with rent limits based on location

Deposits & Agency Fees

Security deposits are usually 2–3 months’ rent
Agency fees often apply (one month’s rent is standard)
All contracts over 30 days should be registered with Agenzia delle Entrate

Can You Rent Without Speaking Italian?

Technically yes—but in practice, it’s difficult. Most landlords and smaller agencies don’t speak English, and rental contracts are usually in Italian.

If you’re not fluent, consider:

Hiring a relocation assistant
Using an expat real estate agent
Having someone help translate and review contracts

Even Google Translate can miss key legal phrases—get help when signing anything binding.

Tips for First-Time Renters in Italy

✅ View the property in person whenever possible
✅ Get a translated copy of the lease
✅ Never hand over cash without a signed agreement
✅ Ask for receipts for every payment
✅ Understand what’s included (utilities, internet, condominio fees)
✅ Check if the landlord will register the contract (required by law)

Curious about rent prices by region? Visit our Cost of Living in Italy guide.

Final Thoughts

Renting in Italy is completely possible as a foreigner, but it’s not plug-and-play. Expect bureaucracy, language barriers, and a few cultural curveballs. But once you’re settled, you’ll be living the Italian life—espresso, piazzas, and all.

Take your time, get informed, and when in doubt, ask questions or get help. A good rental contract is more than just a place to live—it’s peace of mind.

Subscribe to our Emails

Sign to our weekly newsletters if you are an Estate Agent, Removals company requiring Trade services or a business regularly dealing with client relocations

Today’s Articles

Removals General

renting property in Italy as a foreigner