Italy budget bill proposes 26% exit tax on wealthy leavers

Italy's draft 2027 budget bill would introduce a 26% exit tax on unrealised gains for wealthy residents who move their tax residence abroad, AGI reported on 30 October 2026, with Il Sole 24 Ore following on 31 October. Article 17 of the bill would apply to transfers of tax residence taking effect from 1 January 2027. As of October 2026 it is still a draft, and Parliament can amend it before the budget is passed.

The tax would cover people who have been Italian tax residents for at least six of the previous ten tax periods and who hold assets and rights worth €800,000 or more. It would fall on accrued gains, meaning market value less tax cost, at 26%, with Italian government bonds taxed on 48.08% of the gain. Payment would be due within 180 days of leaving.

People moving to another EU state, or to a country with suitable tax cooperation, could defer payment by paying 50% up front and providing a guarantee, for up to five tax periods within the EU and ten elsewhere. During deferral the tax would lapse if the assets are not sold, pass on inheritance, or if the person returns to Italy. The government expects revenue of €3.37 million in 2027 and €6.74 million a year from 2028 to 2031. The qualifying non-EU countries have not yet been named.