Avoid Scams & Illegal Sublets in Italy: What International Students Must Know

Preparing to study in Italy—the land of history, culture, and world-class universities—is an exhilarating experience. However, alongside the excitement of finding accommodation, you must be prepared for the realities of the Italian rental market, which, unfortunately, includes common rental scams and the prevalence of illegal sublets. For international students, especially first-time movers, recognizing and avoiding these risks is essential for a safe and successful relocation.

1) Why This Matters for International Students

International students are often prime targets for rental fraud and illegal sublets for several reasons:

• • They are often moving from abroad and cannot view the property in person, making them vulnerable to “ghost listings.”
• • They are under time pressure to secure housing before their program begins.
• • They may not be fully familiar with Italian rental laws, standard contract types, or bureaucratic processes, including essential documentation support requirements.
• • They may face language barriers when communicating with landlords or verifying legal documents.

Falling victim to a scam means more than just losing a security deposit; it can jeopardize your visa requirements, academic enrollment, and overall peace of mind.

2) Simple Explanation of Illegal Sublets and Rental Scams

What is an Illegal Sublet (Subaffitto Illegale)?

A sublet is when a tenant rents out all or part of their rented apartment to another person (the sub-tenant). An illegal sublet occurs when this is done without the express written permission of the original landlord, or if the original contract explicitly forbids subletting. In Italy, subletting rules are strict, and unauthorized subletting can lead to eviction for both the main tenant and the sub-tenant, with the sub-tenant having very few rights.

What is a Rental Scam?

Rental scams are fraudulent schemes designed to steal money from prospective tenants. Scammers typically pose as legitimate landlords or agents to lure victims into sending money (usually a deposit or “reservation fee”) for a property they do not own, which doesn’t exist, or which is already occupied. Common tactics include using professional-looking photos, high pressure sales, and demanding payments via untraceable methods.

3) Student-Specific Risks & Common Misunderstandings

The “Ghost Listing” Scam

This is one of the most common scams targeting international students. The scammer posts a beautiful, affordable apartment online, often using pictures stolen from real estate websites. They claim to be abroad and unable to show the apartment, pressuring the student to pay a deposit quickly to “reserve” the place. Once the money is sent, communication stops, and the student arrives in Italy with no apartment and a significant financial loss.

The Non-Registered Contract (Contratto Non Registrato)

In Italy, all rental contracts must be officially registered with the Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency). If a contract is not registered, it is legally invalid. Some landlords try to avoid registering the contract to evade taxes, which leaves the student with no legal protection, no proof of address for residency permits (permesso di soggiorno), and the possibility of sudden eviction. Always ask for proof of registration (the F24 receipt).

Misunderstandings about ‘Temporary’ Contracts

Many students sign contratti transitori (transitional contracts). While these are legitimate, they require proof of a transitional need (e.g., a specific study period). Students sometimes use these when a 4+4 year contract is more appropriate, or scammers use them deceptively to offer less security. Ensure the contract aligns with your actual study period.

4) Practical Examples International Students Face

Example A: The Urgency Trap

A student finds a perfect apartment in Milan. The ‘landlord’ insists on an immediate payment of €1,000 via Western Union, claiming three other students are ready to pay. They refuse a video call tour. The student, panicked, pays. Upon arriving, the address is real, but the actual tenant or owner has never heard of the ‘landlord.’

Example B: The Documentation Nightmare

A student finds a room via a roommate and signs a simple piece of paper agreeing to pay monthly rent. They are now an illegal sub-tenant. When they go to apply for their residency permit, they realize they have no valid rental contract and cannot complete the mandatory documentation, leading to serious legal complications for their European student documentation.

5) Prevention Checklist: What to Verify and What to Avoid

What to Verify (The Essentials)

• • Verify the Landlord’s Identity: Request a copy of the landlord’s ID (Carta d’Identità) and compare the name with the property ownership documents (visura catastale or title deed).
• • Inspect the Property: NEVER sign a contract or pay a deposit without physically or virtually viewing the property. If a video tour is offered, ensure the landlord shows details that confirm they are physically there (e.g., today’s newspaper).
• • Demand a Registered Contract: All legitimate contracts must be registered. Insist on a written contract (contratto di locazione) and proof of registration (F24 receipt) within 30 days of signing.
• • Review Sublet Clauses: If renting a room from a main tenant, insist on seeing the main contract and the landlord’s written authorization for the sublet. Ideally, seek housing with a direct contract to the owner.
• • Understand the Deposit (Caparra): Deposits should typically be no more than two or three months’ rent and must be returned at the end of the tenancy, minus damages.

What to Avoid (Red Flags)

• • Payment via Untraceable Methods: Avoid paying rent or deposits via Western Union, MoneyGram, or cryptocurrency. Use a bank transfer (bonifico bancario) into a named account that matches the landlord’s ID.
• • High-Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create false urgency. If you are pressured to pay immediately, it is a significant red flag.
• • Deals That Seem Too Good: If an apartment in central Rome or Milan is listed significantly below the market rate, be extremely skeptical.
• • Refusal to Provide Documents: Any landlord who refuses to show their ID, property ownership documents, or proof of contract registration is likely operating illegally.

6) How Luxe Settle Helps

Navigating the potential pitfalls of the Italian housing market can feel overwhelming, especially from thousands of kilometers away. Luxe Settle is specifically designed to provide student relocation support in Italy by ensuring secure housing arrangements. We work with verified landlords and official agencies, managing the vetting process and contract checks to protect you from illegal sublets and fraud. Our service offers transparency and security, allowing you to focus on your studies while we handle the critical administrative steps of settling in.

Disclaimer

Please note: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions regarding rental contracts or disputes, consult a qualified Italian lawyer.

7) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is it illegal to sublet a room in Italy?

It is not illegal if you have the express written permission of the landlord (owner) and the sublet adheres to the terms outlined in the main rental contract. Unauthorized subletting is illegal and can result in the sub-tenant having to vacate the property immediately.

• Can I get a residency permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) with an illegal sublet?

No. To register your residency and apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno, you need a valid, registered rental contract in your name or a declaration of hospitality from the registered owner. An illegal sublet contract provides none of the required legal documentation.

• What is the safest way to pay the security deposit?

The safest way is via bank transfer (bonifico bancario) to an account in the name of the landlord listed on the contract. Never use wire transfers (like Western Union) or cash for large sums, as these are untraceable.

• What is the difference between a registered and unregistered contract?

A registered contract (required by law) provides legal rights and protection to the tenant and serves as proof of address for bureaucracy. An unregistered contract is legally invalid and leaves the tenant vulnerable to eviction and fraud.

• How quickly must a landlord return the deposit?

The return of the security deposit (minus any documented deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear) is typically stipulated in the contract, often within 30 to 90 days after the contract ends and the keys are returned.

• Should I sign a contract without seeing the apartment?

No. Never sign a contract or send money for an apartment you haven’t seen. At minimum, arrange a live video tour where you can ask the person to show specific details or locations to verify they are physically in the apartment.