Can non-EU citizens get a mortgage in Italy?

Yes — but banks apply stricter rules. Lenders typically require strong proof of income, a residency permit (when available), and a larger deposit than for EU buyers.

What Loan-to-Value (LTV) can non-EU buyers expect?

Most banks offer lower LTVs for non-EU applicants — commonly 50–60% — meaning you should expect to fund a significant deposit.

What extra documents will banks ask from non-EU applicants?

Expect official translations (with apostille when required) of income proof, tax returns, home-country bank statements, and any residency permits or visas.

Which banks are more likely to lend to non-EU citizens?

Large international banks (for example regional branches of UniCredit or Intesa Sanpaolo) and private banks tend to be more open; smaller local banks are often more conservative.

What are practical alternatives if an Italian mortgage is not available?

Options include financing in your home country, mixed funding (cash + small local loan), buying with an EU co-applicant, or delaying purchase until residency is obtained.

Italian Mortgage Options for Non-EU Citizens

Purchasing a property in Italy as a non-EU citizen comes with extra hurdles, especially when it comes to financing.

While Italian banks are open to working with international clients, the rules for non-EU buyers are stricter. Understanding these rules will help you plan ahead and avoid wasting time.

👉 If you want a broader overview of all foreign financing options, see our guide to Financing Property in Italy: Bank Loans for Foreigners.

Eligibility Rules for Non-EU Buyers

Italian banks usually require non-EU buyers to meet at least one of these conditions:

Residency in Italy: Holding a valid permesso di soggiorno (residency permit) greatly improves your chances.
Stable income: Banks want documented, regular income, often from an EU or G7 country. Self-employed buyers face tougher scrutiny.
Strong banking history: Having an existing account with an Italian bank helps demonstrate reliability.

Without one or more of these, most banks will refuse an application.

Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratios

For Italian citizens, mortgages can cover up to 80% of a property’s value. Non-EU buyers, however, usually face stricter caps:

50–60% LTV is the norm for non-EU applicants.
Some banks set a minimum loan size, typically €100,000 or higher.

This means you should be prepared to provide a substantial deposit upfront.

Extra Documentation

Expect to provide more paperwork than an Italian or EU buyer. Typical requests include:

Proof of residency permit (if applicable).
Proof of income (translated into Italian and legalized with an apostille).
Bank statements from your home country.
Tax returns.

Each document often needs to be officially translated and stamped before it’s accepted.

Which Banks to Approach

Large international banks (like UniCredit or Intesa Sanpaolo) tend to be more flexible with non-EU citizens.
Regional banks are usually stricter and more risk-averse.
Private banks can offer tailored solutions but usually require significant wealth.

Tip: If you already hold an Italian current account, start with that bank — they are more likely to consider your application.

Alternatives if You Don’t Qualify

If an Italian mortgage isn’t an option, there are workarounds:

Home country financing: Some buyers borrow against property in their home country.
Mixed financing: Part cash, part smaller loan from Italy.
Buying with an Italian spouse or partner: If one buyer is EU/Italian, the process becomes much easier.
Delaying the mortgage until residency is granted: Some buyers secure residency first, then apply for the mortgage.

Key Challenges Non-EU Buyers Face

Higher deposits required.
Fewer banks willing to lend.
Extra costs for translations and notarizations.
Lengthy approval timelines (often 3–6 months).

Because of these hurdles, many non-EU buyers either plan to buy largely in cash or combine different financing options.

✅ Key Takeaway:

Non-EU citizens face stricter conditions when applying for mortgages in Italy. Be ready with a large deposit, translated paperwork, and patience for a longer process. Exploring alternatives can help you secure your Italian home without delays.