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Each Italian bank sets its own onboarding documents. This guide explains how the tax code is requested and what to ask a bank; it does not promise that any bank will open an account.
At a glance
- Issued by
- Agenzia delle Entrate, or through the immigration procedure for non-EU citizens.
- From abroad
- Italian consulate, or a representative with power of attorney at an Agenzia office.
- Banks
- Each bank sets its own documents; confirm before booking.
Your checklist
First steps
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Why the tax code comes first
The codice fiscale is the personal tax identifier that Italian banks, employers, landlords and public services use. In practice, banks collect it as part of opening an account, so having it before the branch visit avoids a second trip.
The sources reviewed do not list a legal rule that fixes what a bank must ask for. Treat the bank’s own list as the real requirement and confirm it in advance.
Three routes to the code
Foreign nationals who do not live in Italy can ask the Italian consulate responsible for their place of residence, with the application form, an ID copy and the reason for the request. They can also appoint a representative by special power of attorney to apply at an Agenzia delle Entrate office.
In Italy, EU citizens apply at an Agenzia delle Entrate office with form AA4/8 and a valid passport or ID card. For non-EU citizens the code is assigned by the Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione for work or family reunification visas, or by the Questura for other permit types. Students staying under 90 days can apply at the Agenzia, while those staying longer go through the Questura permit procedure.
A code is not an account, a residence registration or a permit
Holding a codice fiscale does not give you the right to open a bank account, and it does not register you as a resident. Residence registration (residenza) is a separate step with the municipality.
If a bank also asks for proof of address or a residence permit, ask what it will accept while you are still waiting. Some institutions treat newcomers differently from residents, so a quick question can save weeks.
Common questions
Do I need a codice fiscale to open an Italian bank account?
Banks usually ask for it as part of onboarding. Exact requirements are set by each bank, so confirm the list before the appointment.
Can I get a codice fiscale before I move to Italy?
Yes for foreign nationals not living in Italy: through the responsible Italian consulate, or through a representative with a special power of attorney at an Agenzia delle Entrate office.
Where do I request it once I am in Italy?
EU citizens go to an Agenzia delle Entrate office with form AA4/8 and a passport or ID. For non-EU citizens, the code is assigned through the immigration procedure, by the Sportello Unico or the Questura depending on the permit.
Is the codice fiscale the same as the health card?
No. The tax code is an identifier. The health card and registration with the national health service are separate steps; see the health-cover guide.
Official sources
Read this first
- Italian Revenue Agency: tax code and health cardWhat the tax code is and how the Agenzia delle Entrate issues it
- Agenzia delle Entrate: request a tax code or duplicateWhere to request a tax code or a duplicate
- Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: codice fiscaleRequests from abroad, EU and non-EU routes, students and consular documents
Rules can vary by nationality, work or study status, and city. Confirm your route with the official authority before you act.