• EU/EEA Citizens:
  • No visa required
  • Must register with the local municipality
• Non-EU Citizens:
  • Self-Employment Visa available with business plan and proof of financial means
  • Requirements include rental contract, minimum income (~€8,500/year), and no criminal record

• Sole Proprietor (Ditta Individuale) or SRL (Limited Company)
• Steps for SRL:
  • Register at the Chamber of Commerce
  • Obtain VAT number and INPS/INAIL registration
  • Draft articles and register with a notary

Setup Time: 3–6 weeks

• Local Comune issues hospitality licenses
• HACCP certification and health/safety inspections required
• Alcohol sales and terrace seating require additional permits
• Agriturismi have specific rural and food production rules

• Corporate Tax: 24% + regional surtax (3.9%)
• VAT: 10% for food/hospitality, 22% for alcohol
• Self-employed taxed progressively (from 23%)

English-speaking tax advisors are available in major cities and regions with expat populations.

• Minimum wage: No statutory level, but guided by collective agreements (~€1,400–1,600/month)
• Hiring requires contracts, INPS registration, and insurance contributions
• High labor costs – often 40%+ added to gross salary

• Foreigners may freely buy or lease property
• Historic centers may have restrictions on signage or renovations
• Long-term leases are common (6–9 years, with renewals)

• Culinary authenticity is crucial – regional traditions dominate
• Off-season tourism strategies needed in rural zones
• North–South economic differences impact pricing and demand
• Agritourism and boutique hotels thrive in Tuscany, Umbria, and the Lakes

• Chambers of Commerce (Camera di Commercio)
• Regional tourism authorities
• Hospitality training schools
• Local business consultants

• EU and regional grants for tourism, especially in rural development
• Agricultural development funds for agriturismi
• Tax credits for renovations and green upgrades

• Invitalia – Italy’s Investment Agency
• Italian Chamber of Commerce

In Italy, food and atmosphere are sacred. Success means blending business planning with passion and patience.