buying a car in Italy as a foreigner
Foreign property owners and international investors relocating to Italy are often surprised to discover that buying and owning a car in Italy is subject to strict legal requirements.
Contrary to common expectations, owning real estate or having business interests in Italy does not automatically grant the right to register a vehicle.
Italian legislation on vehicle ownership is highly regulated and depends primarily on residency status, citizenship, and immigration position.
Below we clarify the main legal scenarios applicable to foreigners in Italy, in line with current regulations and practical cases.
Who Can Buy a Car in Italy as a Foreigner? Residency and Legal Requirements
As a general rule, only individuals who are legally resident in Italy are entitled to buy and register a vehicle with Italian license plates.
This principle applies regardless of property ownership or business activities carried out in the country.
To better understand the legal framework, it is necessary to distinguish between the following categories:
- Italian citizens residing abroad
- Citizens of another EU Member State
- Non-EU citizens
Each category is subject to specific legal requirements under Italian law.
Buying a Car in Italy as a Foreigner: Rules for Vehicles Registered Abroad
According to Article 132 of the Italian Highway Code (Codice della Strada), vehicles registered abroad may circulate in Italy for a maximum period of one year, provided that all customs formalities have been completed.
Once this period expires, the vehicle must either be registered with the Italian Public Motor Registry or leave Italian territory.
Failure to comply with this obligation may result in administrative fines ranging from €712 to €2,848, as well as the seizure of the vehicle for up to 180 days, pursuant to Article 213 of the Italian Highway Code.
Buying a Car in Italy as a Foreigner if You Are an Italian Citizen Living Abroad (AIRE)
Italian citizens residing abroad and registered with AIRE (Registry of Italians Living Abroad) may purchase and register a vehicle in Italy only if they indicate a legal domicile in Italy at the time of registration.
In such cases, the declared Italian domicile and AIRE registration are recorded on the vehicle registration certificate and ownership documentation, even if the individual is not tax resident in Italy.
Can EU Citizens Buy a Car in Italy as Foreigners? Registration and Domicile Rules
Citizens of another EU Member State who reside abroad may buy and register a vehicle in Italy provided that they can demonstrate legitimate interests in Italy, such as property ownership or business activities.
They must indicate a legal domicile in Italy at the time of registration, which will be recorded on both the vehicle registration certificate and the ownership certificate issued by the Public Motor Registry.
Non-EU Citizens and Vehicle Ownership in Italy
For non-EU citizens, the legal framework is more restrictive.
A non-EU citizen holding a valid visa or residence permit may circulate in Italy with a vehicle registered under special EE plates for a maximum period of one year after registration with the Public Motor Registry.
However, only non-EU citizens who are legally resident in an Italian municipality are entitled to own and register a vehicle with standard Italian license plates.
Without Italian residency, vehicle ownership is not permitted, even if the individual owns property or conducts business in Italy.
Key Considerations for Foreign Property Owners and Investors
The right to buy and own a car in Italy is strictly connected to residency status, not to property ownership alone.
This distinction is particularly relevant for foreign investors, second-home owners, and individuals planning relocation to Italy.
Understanding these rules in advance helps avoid administrative penalties, vehicle seizure, and unexpected compliance issues.
MG Law Firm’s Contribution to AIPO (Alliance of International Property Owners)
MG Law Firm regularly assists international clients and AIPO members in navigating Italian legal requirements related to relocation, immigration, property ownership, and vehicle registration.
Our legal team provides tailored advice based on citizenship, residency status, and long-term investment strategies, ensuring full compliance with Italian law.
Need Legal Guidance on Relocation or Ownership in Italy?
If you are a foreign property owner or investor considering relocation to Italy, professional legal advice is essential.
Our English-speaking lawyers are available to assess your situation and guide you through the most appropriate legal solutions..
