Why foreigners use Postepay Evolution
For students, seasonal workers and people in their first weeks in Italy, a traditional bank account can take time. Postepay Evolution can be issued at a post office in one visit and gives you an Italian IBAN straight away. It is widely accepted by Italian employers, landlords and online shops.
What it can and cannot do
| Feature | Postepay Evolution |
|---|---|
| Italian IBAN | Yes, ABI 07601 |
| Receive salary or transfers | Yes |
| Make SEPA transfers | Yes, from the app or post office |
| Pay pagoPA and utility bills | Yes |
| Direct debits | Yes |
| Contactless, Apple Pay, Google Pay | Yes |
| Overdraft or loans | No; it is prepaid |
| Cheques | No |
What it costs
Fees reported for 2026 are a €5 issue fee, an annual fee of about €15 charged automatically to the card, and a minimum first top-up. Withdrawals at Poste’s own Postamat ATMs cost less than at other banks’ ATMs. Sources disagree on some figures, so read Poste Italiane’s fee sheet (foglio informativo) before applying.
How to get one
- Get a codice fiscale.
- Go to a post office with your passport or EU ID card and codice fiscale. Booking a slot in the Ufficio Postale app saves queueing.
- Ask for Postepay Evolution, sign the contract and top up the minimum amount.
- Download the Postepay app and activate the card.
Some people order the card online, but this usually requires SPID or an Italian identity check, which most newcomers do not have yet.
When to move to a bank account
Postepay Evolution is a good start. Once you have residency and a regular income, a full current account gives you an overdraft, credit cards, mortgages and better handling of large transfers. See the best banks for foreigners.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner get a Postepay Evolution card?
Yes. Foreigners can get a Postepay Evolution card at any post office with a valid identity document and a codice fiscale. Non-EU citizens may be asked for a residence permit or visa.
How much does Postepay Evolution cost?
In 2026 sources report a €5 issue fee and an annual fee of about €15, charged automatically to the card, plus a minimum first top-up. Check Poste Italiane’s current fee sheet before you apply, as fees have changed in recent years.
What is the difference between Postepay Standard and Postepay Evolution?
Postepay Standard is a simple prepaid card without an IBAN. Postepay Evolution has its own IBAN, so it can receive transfers, salaries and pensions and set up direct debits.
What is the SWIFT code for Postepay Evolution?
Postepay Evolution uses Poste Italiane’s SWIFT/BIC code, BPPIITRR (BPPIITRRXXX). The ABI code inside its IBAN is 07601.
Sources and fact-checking
Checked on 2 November 2026 by Ionut Popea following our editorial policy. Fees, codes and rules change; confirm anything important with the bank or authority before acting.