How many times you will actually need to be here
Buying property in Genova from abroad rarely requires endless travel or taking months off work. You might be wondering how many times you need to fly to Italy just to complete a purchase, whether you can sign legally binding papers without being present, and who checks on the property while you are still abroad.
The physical reality is much simpler than most international buyers expect. Most steps, from initial selection to document checks, happen entirely online. You do not need to spend weeks managing logistics from another country. The key is knowing which steps require a physical presence and which can be handled securely through authorized representatives. By structuring the process before you even book a flight, your time in Italy becomes focused entirely on final decisions rather than bureaucratic hurdles.
Tax codes, bank accounts, and power of attorney
Distance is no longer a barrier when buying a home in Italy, provided you use the right sequence of legal and administrative tools. First, you will need an Italian tax code, known as a codice fiscale. This is simply a personal identification number issued by the tax authority, and it does not establish tax residency or create unexpected obligations. It is required simply to open a bank file and complete transactions.
Opening a local bank account simplifies future utility management and payments, though your professional advisors can guide you through the exact requirements based on your citizenship. When the time comes to sign the final deed, you do not necessarily need to travel. You can appoint a trusted person in Italy to sign on your behalf through a power of attorney. When this document is prepared outside Italy, it must follow specific international legalization formalities to be recognized by the Italian notary. Every document and technical verification is handled by qualified local professionals before any binding commitment is made.
Request the calendar for your purchase
Home Gallery supports international buyers every step of the way. We provide speakers of your language, preliminary video viewings before you travel, and an organized schedule of visits compressed into a single stay. We coordinate local technicians for technical checks and accompany you to the notary with an interpreter. We even assist after the purchase with utilities and maintenance. Explore our available properties in Genova to see what fits your vision.
To begin, request a simple orientation call in your language to map out your timeline without any pressure.
Do you have a specific question?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an Italian tax code to buy property in Genova?
Yes, an Italian tax code is mandatory for anyone purchasing property in Italy, as it is required by the notary and the tax registry for the transaction. However, obtaining a codice fiscale is purely an administrative identification process. It does not automatically make you a tax resident, nor does it create obligations regarding your income abroad. You can request it through the local Italian consulate in your country of residence or have a professional handle it on your behalf before you make an offer.
Can I sign the final purchase deed using a power of attorney?
Yes, you can sign the final deed of sale through a power of attorney if you cannot travel to Italy for the closing. This legal instrument allows a trusted individual to sign documents and complete the purchase on your behalf in front of the Italian notary. If the power of attorney is signed outside Italy, it must be drafted correctly and processed with the appropriate international legalization or apostille formalities depending on your country of residence, ensuring it is fully recognized under Italian law.
How many visits are actually needed before making an offer in Genova?
Most international buyers complete their physical inspections during a single, well organized trip. Before you arrive, properties are pre-selected based on your specific criteria, and initial viewings are conducted via video walkthroughs to filter out unsuitable options. When you decide to travel, all physical viewings are scheduled into a concise itinerary over a few days. This targeted approach allows you to inspect the neighborhoods, meet your advisors, and evaluate the property in person without taking extended time away from your work.
