---
title: "Italian self-declaration or certificate: what foreign authorities accept"
url: https://praticaexpress.it/en/italian-self-declaration-or-certificate
description: "In Italy a signed self-declaration is often enough. Abroad it is not: when you need the official Italian certificate and how to get it."
updated: 2026-11-03T08:24:39+01:00
---

# Italian self-declaration or certificate: what foreign authorities accept

Residence, family status, birth, marriage: in Italy many of these facts can be declared by yourself with a signed self-declaration (autocertificazione). Abroad, things are different.

## In Italy the self-declaration is enough

Italian public offices (municipalities, schools, health services, INPS) cannot ask you for certificates: they must accept the self-declaration and may check it themselves.

## When you need the real certificate

- **Abroad**: foreign authorities, consulates and courts want the official document, often with apostille.
- **With private parties**: banks, notaries, insurers and private employers can ask for the certificate.
- **In some special procedures**, when the law requires it.

## Be careful what you declare

The self-declaration has legal value: a false statement is a crime. If you are not sure about a detail, request the certificate.

## Plain paper or revenue stamp?

Many certificates require a revenue stamp, except for some exempt uses. We tell you whether you need it in your case.

With a signed proxy form we request the certificate from the Italian municipality and ship you the original, with apostille if needed.

[Request a certificate →](https://praticaexpress.it/en/certificato-di-residenza)