Hand withdrawing euro banknotes from an ATM machine in Central Europe (federicofoto (123RF))
Getting an Italian account with an International Bank Account Number (IBAN) is necessary for paying bills and transferring money. It is also helpful for making purchases, getting cash and managing funds between dollars and euros.
On-Base Banking Options
Community Bank has two offices at NAS Sigonella.
NAS I, Bldg. 318 | +39-095-713-0711
NAS II, Bldg. 471 |+39-095-749-4911
Navy Federal Credit Union
NAS II, Bldg. 542 | Toll free: 00-888-842-6328
Mobile Banks
Online banks are a great tool to get local bills paid and often offer competitive exchange rates and low fees. They have international banking apps that allow you to create a European account with an IBAN to pay rent or bills in euros.
Wise | www.wise.com
Wise safeguards customers’ funds to make sure they’re always available whenever they’re needed and offers simple to use web and app access to money.
N26 | www.n26.com
N26 is a 100 percent mobile, fully licensed bank, which provides the same level of security and regulations as traditional banks. Their European banking license protects your funds up to €100,000 by the German Deposit Protection Scheme.
Using Debit Cards
· Contactless cards and chip and PIN cards are the norm throughout Europe.
· Smaller Italian businesses may not take credit cards.
· Always carry euros when off-installation.
· Some U.S. banks charge international transaction fees when using debit cards, so check with your bank.
Your Navy Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) is available for a variety of legal assistance. They help with powers of attorney, notary services, wills and estate planning, medical directives, Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA), and other legal counseling.
Region Legal Service Office
NAS II, Bldg. 564 |+39-095-86-7576
Upon arrival, setting up your cell phone is extremely helpful. There are a variety of options in Italy, and plans tend to be very affordable.
Wi-Fi Communication
When you first arrive, it is helpful to use one of these popular texting apps that are free to use over Wi-Fi.
• FaceTime
• Signal
• Facebook Messenger
• Skype
Italian Providers
Most people prefer using a pre-paid service or plan with a local provider in Italy. This allows you to purchase a European SIM card that includes a large amount of data to use within a single month. You can then set up automatic monthly payments with a web account, or add data as needed online, and at grocery and convenience stores.
· Vodafone has a retail location on NAS I, Phone: +39-095-56-4493.
· Other providers include Tim, WindTre, Ho, Iliad, Kena, VeryMobile.
U.S. Number
Some U.S. providers offer international rates that you can add onto your current plan. This option allows you to keep your U.S. phone number but may require occasional verifications to ensure you can receive messages.
