Google Meet video call from a computer with automatic Italian–English translation.
For translation, join from a computer
In 30 seconds
Americans can open a business in Italy as a sole trader (VAT number) or through a company such as an S.r.l., which needs a deed before an Italian notary and registration in the Business Register. Decide the form, the legal representative and the registered office first, and treat visa and residence as a separate question.
A restaurant on the coast, a consulting firm for US clients, a small import business: Americans often ask how to start. The legal steps are clear, but order and choices matter, and some steps depend on your immigration status. This guide explains the basics.
Sole trader or company
| Form | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Sole trader (VAT number) | Fast to open; you answer with your own assets; tax and social security rules apply. |
| S.r.l. (limited liability company) | Separate legal entity; formed by a notarial deed; registered office, share capital, directors, registration in the Business Register. |
The right form depends on activity, risk, partners and plans. Get legal and accounting advice before choosing.
The main steps for an S.r.l.
- Obtain a codice fiscale for each partner and director.
- Choose the name, registered office, purpose, capital and directors.
- Sign the articles before an Italian notary, possibly through an attorney-in-fact: see our guide on powers of attorney.
- Register the company in the Business Register and complete tax registrations.
- Open a bank account and comply with rules on the beneficial owner and anti-money-laundering.
Typical case
A problem that happens often. Typical case described in general terms: names, places and details do not refer to real people or cases.
An American consultant forms an S.r.l. in Rome with a friend, without a written shareholders’ agreement. When they disagree about profits and the sale of the company, they discover that the articles do not cover the situation. Clear rules on roles, decisions and exit, agreed at the start, avoid this.
Facing a similar situation? You can send your documents to the firm for an assessment, from anywhere in the world.
Book a consultationVisa and residence are separate
Forming a company does not by itself give the right to live or work in Italy. Check the official visa portal Visa for Italy and ask a professional. The firm does not handle visa practices.
Contracts and risks
- Shareholders’ agreement and rules on decisions and exit.
- Contracts with suppliers, clients and the premises.
- Employment and social security rules if you hire.
- Recovery of unpaid invoices: Italy has specific procedures. Ask early.
Frequently asked questions
Can a US citizen own an Italian company?
In general yes. Check the rules for your activity and your immigration position.
Do I need to live in Italy to open an S.r.l.?
Not necessarily for the company, but visas and tax residence are separate questions.
Do I need a notary?
For an S.r.l. the deed is made before an Italian notary.
Does the firm advise on US taxes?
No. We handle the Italian legal side and work alongside your US advisers.
Related guides
Learn more: Legal guides from Studio Legale Fiorentino.
Questions about property or an inheritance in Italy?
Every situation must be assessed on the documents of the specific case. You can consult the firm from anywhere in the world: by video call, phone, WhatsApp or email. If you speak English, we can switch on automatic Italian–English voice translation in a Google Meet video call: please join from a computer. Appointments in person in Naples (Piazza Giovanni Bovio 22 and Via Monte di Dio 14), Rome and Bari.
Official sources
- Italian Civil Code, art. 2463 (Normattiva)
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Visa for Italy (official portal)
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy: legal assistance
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy: American Citizen Services
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy: contact
- U.S. Department of State: Italy country information
- Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: consular services and visas
Information updated on October 10, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. The firm does not advise on United States law or taxes.
Do you have a similar issue?
Every situation depends on the documents of the specific case. You can contact the firm from anywhere, remotely.