Understand this route
Art. 126-noviesdecies of the Banking Act gives anyone lawfully resident in the EU the right to a basic account, and free of charge for people in financial hardship. Banca d'Italia's communication of 5 August 2026 required banks to align their practice by 30 November 2026, so a refusal today is challengeable.
What to check
- Ask specifically for a conto di base: it is a right, not something the bank grants at will.
- If your income is low: whether the account is free for you.
- Ask for any refusal in writing, with reasons.
- Banks had to bring their practice into line by 30 November 2026.
Caveat
Two different dates. At EU level temporary protection runs to 4 March 2028 (Council Decision (EU) 2026/1912). Italian instruments, as at 26 September 2026, are still tied to 4 March 2027, and we found no Italian implementing act for 2028. Check your questura and the Ministry of the Interior before acting.
Updated: 2026-09-29