Your lease is the foundation of your Italian paperwork. It is your proof of address for residenza and for many other steps. This guide covers the documents, the questions to ask your landlord and the details that often get missed.
Informal arrangements, such as staying with friends without paperwork, can complicate later steps. If you are staying with someone, ask for a host's declaration (dichiarazione di ospitalità).
A lease in Italy is normally registered with the tax authority (Agenzia delle Entrate). Ask your landlord to confirm that the lease is registered and who handles it, and ask for proof of registration. Landlords may also have options about how rental income is taxed. That is their matter, but ask the questions that affect you.
You will usually need to put utility contracts in your name, which is often called a voltura. Have your Codice Fiscale, your ID, the lease and the meter details ready. Ask your landlord what the previous arrangement was and what is already connected.
Many Italian buildings have shared costs and rules, called condominium charges and rules. Ask what is included in your rent and what you pay separately.
With a lease in hand, you can start registering your residency. See our first 30 days for the order.
General information only, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Procedures vary by city and individual situation, so confirm with the relevant office. See the full disclaimer.
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Updated October 2026. See the full checklist · All guides