Americans settling in Italy face a civil law system that treats assets, heirs, and succession very differently from the United States. This guide explains the four pillars of Italian estate planning so you can structure your legacy correctly from day one.

Dreaming of Italy is easy — the food, the history, the slower pace of life. The harder part is making your finances work once you get there. As a US expat, you’ll face overlapping tax systems, unexpected residency rules, and even your own money biases. This guide shows you how to prepare, avoid costly mistakes, and make the financial pivot that turns your Italian dream into reality.

Buying a home in Italy is a dream for many Americans — but the process comes with its own rules, costs, and cultural surprises. From getting your Codice Fiscale to signing the rogito, understanding how Italy’s property system works will help you avoid costly mistakes. With the right legal guidance and a clear picture of taxes and fees, you can turn your Italian dream home from “maybe” into “mine.”