Option 1: Signing with a Sworn Translator
If you want to attend the notary appointment in person, you can sign the deed with the assistance of a sworn translator (interprete giurato).
Here’s what it involves:
- You attend the signing at the notary’s office in Italy.
- A sworn translator reads the full contract aloud in both Italian and your language.
- The notary also invites two witnesses: one fluent in Italian, the other fluent in your language.
- You personally sign all documents once the translation is completed.
Cost and timing:
This option ensures full control of the process but is time-consuming and expensive.
- Translator fees: typically €700–1300, depending on language and location.
- Notary fees: usually higher than for a standard Italian-language deed, due to the longer session.
It’s a good choice if you want to be physically present and personally oversee every stage of your property purchase.
Option 2: Signing by Power of Attorney (Procura)
If you prefer not to travel to Italy for the closing, you can authorize someone to act on your behalf — usually a lawyer or professional representative fluent in Italian.
Your representative signs all documents at the notary office for you.
Advantages:
- You don’t need to be in Italy for the final signing.
- The process is faster and more cost-effective.
- No translator or witnesses are required.
If you don’t already have a trusted contact in Italy, your lawyer or buyer’s agent can arrange the power of attorney and handle the full closing process legally.
What If You’re Taking Out a Mortgage?
When the purchase involves a mortgage (mutuo), the notarial act becomes even more complex.
In such cases, using a translator can double both the cost and duration of the process.
That’s why for mortgage-based transactions, we almost always recommend proceeding by power of attorney.
Our Recommendation
Both methods — translator or power of attorney — are fully legal and recognized under Italian law.
Your choice depends on your personal comfort, availability, and whether you want to attend the notary signing in person.
At ITALTY, we help you organize both options:
- arranging a certified sworn translator if you prefer to attend,
- or preparing a legally valid power of attorney through our trusted legal partners in Italy.
Whichever you choose, your transaction will be handled safely, clearly, and in full compliance with Italian law.
If you’re unsure which option fits your situation, contact us — we’ll help you evaluate the best and most cost-effective way to finalize your purchase in Italy.
© ITALTY — Your Italian Realty
We write about buying real estate in Italy with maximum benefit for you, without risks and stress.