8789 Setting up a bank account via Internet?

According to the Survival Books 'Living and Working in Italy', it is possible to apply on line for a bank account from outside Italy. They don't give any links or even name example banks though.

I've had a look at a couple of the websites for the big names and although they all offer Internet access to your existing account, I can't see any way for new customers to sign up. In fact, when I think about it, the whole concept seems a bit unlikely.

Has anyone on the forum set up an Italian bank account from outside Italy?

Category
Cost of living - Utility Services

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 02/13/2008 - 07:01

I've tried with many banks and you can't. They need an original signature and to be able to verify your identity with passport and codice fiscale.

The best I have managed is to open the account by sending passport copy etc by post, with the possibility of money being sent to the account, but no withdrawals or other transactions until you present documents in the original and sign in person.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 02/13/2008 - 10:13

Thank you. That's confirmed my suspicions anyway.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 02/14/2008 - 16:22

I had the same experience at a couple sites, even Banca Intesa advertises an account for foreigners but you have to go to one of their offices to sign documents.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 02/15/2008 - 03:28

They need to see your Codice Fiscale, passport and you have to sign in front of them to register your signature. Perhaps you could do something through a bank which has a branch both in Italy and near where you live.... some time ago I did this with a Spanish bank for my daughter living in London and they sent all the paperwork to their branch in London and they took care of everything.... Worth a try.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 02/16/2008 - 04:14

Further to my previous post, I have seen that Barclays offers to open up bank accounts in Spain for UK clients. Possibly, they would offer the same service in Italy. But you have to contact a branch in the UK.