The Italian yachting market is undergoing a significant legislative evolution. Recent tax and customs updates, effective from 2025, introduce clearer and more modern rules for yacht management, with important implications for owners, brokers, and industry professionals. While these are Italian regulations, many derive from European directives and court rulings, making them relevant also for international operators.
New Italian Customs Code and EU Alignment
From January 1, 2025, Legislative Decree No. 141/2024 replaced the previous Customs Code, reducing the number of articles from 352 to 122. The reform aligns Italian law with the European Union Customs Code, simplifying import and export procedures for yachts and nautical goods and streamlining operations between Italian and EU ports.
VAT Rules for Intra-Community Sales
Sales of yachts between EU countries must be completed within 90 days of transport to the destination state. Deliveries outside the EU are considered VAT-exempt exports, while deliveries within another EU country are subject to reverse charge. Understanding these rules is essential for planning international transfers and sales while avoiding tax risks.
Temporary Admission and Extensions
Yachts from non-EU countries can remain in Italy for up to 24 months without additional requirements. Extensions beyond this period require “exceptional circumstances.” This flexibility facilitates the management of yachts for refits, temporary charters, or short-term nautical events.
Refitting and Change of Use
Refit works that convert a yacht from private to commercial use can benefit from VAT non-imposition, provided an advance “high seas” declaration is submitted. This allows foreign owners to optimize costs when offering charter or commercial services in Italy.
Yacht Leasing
For yacht leasing, VAT is calculated only on the weeks the vessel sails in EU territorial waters, excluding technical movements between ports or shipyards. This detail is crucial for owners and brokers planning leasing contracts or international operations.
Other Key Updates
Confiscation and penalties: paying taxes and penalties avoids asset seizure.
Crew taxation: private owners cannot act as withholding agents unless conducting commercial activities.
Purchase of oceanographic vessels by public entities: VAT exemption if the vessel is for commercial use.
Customs guarantees and refit: simplified procedures for non-EU yachts.
Proof of boarding: the Departure Cargo Manifest (MMP) confirms onboard provisions, facilitating customs clearance.
Although these updates are specific to Italy, understanding them is crucial for international owners and brokers operating in the Mediterranean or planning to import, sell, or manage yachts in Italian waters. Knowledge of these regulations enables cost optimization, risk reduction, and efficient operational planning.
Source: SuperYacht24. (2025, September 19). “Le ultime novità in materia fiscale e doganale che hanno riguardato il settore del diporto e della nautica“