Filing a tax return in Italy is usually straightforward: choose the form, log in, submit the data. For most people, it's a routine task once a year. But if you have income from another country, recently moved, work remotely, or run a business outside Italy, the return is not just about numbers. This is the moment when the tax system records your status: who it considers a resident, which income it treats as Italian, and which country it sees as your main place of taxation.

• In typical cases, you can file the return using the standard process.
• In international situations, it's important not only to submit the form, but also to check your status.
• You can fill everything in correctly and still be recorded incorrectly in the system.
• Problems usually appear later, not at the moment of filing.
• It's better to check the logic now than fix the consequences later.

Steps

1. Decide which form you need

   In Italy, two forms are used most often:

   • Modello 730 — for employees and pensioners
   • Modello Redditi — for freelancers, business owners, and people with more complex income

   If you only have a salary in Italy, Modello 730 is usually enough. If you have a business, freelance income, or foreign income, Modello Redditi is more likely the right choice.

2. Choose how to file

   You can submit your return in three ways:

   • through your personal account on the Agenzia delle Entrate website
   • via a CAF (tax assistance center)
   • through an accountant (commercialista)

   Technically, all three options are equivalent. The difference is who helps you with the filing.

3. Prepare your information

   Before logging in, collect:

   • your income details for the year
   • information on taxes already paid in Italy and abroad
   • family and deduction details
   • bank details for refunds or payments

   If you have foreign income, keep documents from the other country ready.

4. File the return

   Log in, review the pre-filled version (if available), add any missing data, and submit the form. After submission, save:

   • the filing receipt
   • a copy of the return
   • the confirmation of acceptance

   These documents protect you if questions come up later.

Tips

• In typical cases, filing a return is just a routine task.
• In international cases, it is also a point where your status is fixed.
• CAF and online systems help you fill in the form, but they don't always review your cross-border logic.
• If you have doubts, it's better to clarify your situation before an audit, not after.
• Keep all documents related to income and residency for several years.

FAQ