Money & Banking

ATM Cards

Most ATMs in Florence accept foreign cards, and while transaction fees can range from $2 to $5 per withdrawal, ATMs are a convenient way to access cash and typically offer fair exchange rates.
There is a Cassa di Risparmio di Firenze ATM available for student use on the main floor of Villa Natalia. We highly suggest you prefer using this, as it is the safest option for students.
Before arriving in Italy, be sure to notify your bank that you’ll be using your card abroad. If your card doesn’t work at one ATM, try another bank’s machine. If multiple attempts fail, contact your card issuer directly.
Please note: ATM cards with PINs longer than 5 digits will not work at Italian ATMs. Be sure your PIN is 4 to 5 digits long.

Opening an Italian Bank Account

For most students, opening an Italian bank account is not necessary, as many find it easier to use their credit or debit cards from home while in Italy. However, if you feel that opening a local account is the best option for managing your finances, it is possible.
To open a bank account, you will first need to obtain an Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale). If you don’t already have one, the Office of Student Life can help you schedule an appointment at the Agenzia delle Entrate (Tax Office), located at Via Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, 23 in Florence. To apply, you’ll need to fill out a form and provide a photocopy of your passport and visa.
Once you have your Codice Fiscale, the OSL can assist you in scheduling an appointment at a local bank to open your account. Keep in mind that startup costs and transaction fees may be higher than what you’re used to, and services available to international students may be more limited.
If you’re interested in opening an account or need support with the process, feel free to come by the Office of Student Life, located on campus on the ground floor of Villa Colletta. The office is open weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Please remember to close your Italian bank account before you leave Italy at the end of the semester. This will help you avoid any unnecessary fees or complications after your departure.
Exchange Rates: The exchange rate of the U.S. Dollar (and other foreign currencies) to the Euro fluctuates, so be sure to check exchange rates regularly to keep track of your spending.

Sending & Receiving Money

If a student needs to send or receive money while in Florence — for example, if their wallet is lost or stolen — there are several reliable options:

Western Union has multiple locations throughout the city. You can find the nearest office and more information by visiting their website.
MoneyGram operates through Poste Italiane (Italy’s postal service). For more details, visit their website or check with a local post office.

While Apple Pay is accepted in some places, it is not as widely used in Italy as in other countries. It’s a good idea to always carry a card or some cash.

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