Starting a Business in Italy: Administrative Procedures

Published on October 1, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Italy, with its rich cultural heritage and dynamic economy, attracts many foreign entrepreneurs. Whether you’re drawn by the dolce vita or business opportunities, establishing a company in Italy can be an exciting adventure. However, as in any country, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the administrative procedures to ensure your project’s success. Let’s dive into the key steps and essential documents needed to launch your business on Italian soil.

The Entrepreneur’s Journey: Essential Steps

Establishing a company in Italy involves a series of well-defined steps. Here’s the path to follow to bring your entrepreneurial project to life:

1. Choose the appropriate legal form

The first crucial decision is determining the legal structure that best suits your project. The most common options are Società a Responsabilità Limitata (SRL, equivalent to LLC) and Società per Azioni (SpA, equivalent to Corporation). Each has its advantages and specific requirements regarding capital and governance.

2. Draft the company bylaws

The bylaws define your company’s operating rules. They must be carefully drafted in Italian and include essential information such as the company name, business purpose, capital amount, and share distribution among partners.

3. Open an escrow bank account

Before official registration, you must open a specific bank account to deposit the share capital. This account will be blocked until the company’s registration.

4. Sign the deed of incorporation before a notary

In Italy, a notary’s presence is mandatory to authenticate the company’s deed of incorporation. This step formalizes your company’s creation and gives legal validity to your bylaws.

5. Register with the Registro delle Imprese

Registration with the Business Register is a crucial step. It must be completed within 20 days of signing the deed of incorporation. This procedure formalizes your company’s legal existence.

6. Obtain the VAT number (Partita IVA)

Every company operating in Italy must have a VAT number. This procedure is completed with the Agenzia delle Entrate, the Italian equivalent of the tax administration.

7. Register with social security

Registration with INPS (National Social Security Institute) is mandatory for company directors and employees. It ensures social security coverage and compliance with contribution obligations.

The Entrepreneur’s File: Essential Documents

Establishing a company in Italy requires preparing a complete file. Required documents may vary depending on the chosen legal form, but here’s a list of essential elements:

For a Società a Responsabilità Limitata (SRL)

– Company bylaws detailing business purpose, capital, and share distribution – Identification documents of partners and directors – Proof of registered office address in Italy – Certificate of share capital deposit in an Italian bank account – Minutes of the constitutive meeting – Properly completed Business Register registration form – Application for VAT number (Partita IVA)

For a Società per Azioni (SpA)

In addition to documents required for an SRL, you’ll need to provide:

– Detailed business plan – Report from an accountant on valuation of contributions in kind (if applicable) – List of board of directors members and board of statutory auditors – Declaration of acceptance of positions for each director and statutory auditor

Pay attention to Italian specificities

In Italy, certain documents must be translated into Italian and sometimes apostilled to be recognized as valid. It’s highly recommended to use a sworn translator to avoid any rejection of your file.

The Secret to Success: Meticulous Preparation

Establishing a company in Italy requires rigorous preparation and a good understanding of the local administrative system. Here are some tips to maximize your chances of success:

– Anticipate timelines: Some procedures may take time. Start your procedures well in advance to avoid delays in launching your activity.

– Get professional assistance: Using a business lawyer or local accountant can greatly facilitate your procedures and help you avoid costly mistakes.

– Master the language: Although many professionals speak English, proficiency in Italian will be a significant asset in your interactions with the administration.

– Stay informed: Legislation evolves regularly. Keep up with changes that could impact your project.

– Build your network carefully: In Italy, personal relationships play an important role in the business world. Invest time in creating your professional network.

Establishing a company in Italy opens the door to a market rich with opportunities. With adequate preparation and a clear understanding of administrative procedures, your entrepreneurial project has every chance to flourish on Italian soil.