If you live legally in Italy and are looking for a way to guarantee decent housing at affordable prices, ERP Program (Edilizia Residenziale Pubblica), also known as Popular Cases, may be the ideal solution.

Registration is open in several regions of the country, and in this article you will understand how the program works, who can participate, what the benefits are, and how to register step by step.

What is ERP – Edilizia Residenziale Pubblica?

ERP is a public program that offers subsidized houses and apartments for low-income families, legal residents in Italy.

The properties are not sold, but made available for use upon payment of reduced amounts, calculated based on the declared family income (ISEE).

These properties are owned by the government and are managed by regional entities called ATER (Azienda Territoriale per l'Edilizia Residenziale) or ALER in some regions, such as Lombardy. Management is carried out by region, and criteria may vary slightly from one area to another.

Who can sign up for ERP?

The program is primarily aimed at:

  • Italian or foreign citizens with legal residence in Italy;
  • Low-income families, as calculated by ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator);
  • People without other habitable property in Italian territory;
  • Residents of the region where registration is being made;
  • People in vulnerable situations, such as the elderly, single mothers, large families, people with disabilities or those facing eviction.

Even foreigners with a valid residence permit and long-term stay are entitled to apply for vacancies, as long as they prove residence and income within the criteria.

Photo: Google Images

Benefits of the Case Popolari program

Among the main benefits of ERP, the following stand out:

  • Safe and legal housing for those who cannot pay market rent;
  • Affordable prices, adjusted to family income;
  • Houses and apartments generally equipped with basic infrastructure (bathroom, kitchen, heating);
  • Possibility of long-term stability for families in housing vulnerability;
  • Institutional support with social monitoring in some cases.

The monthly payment depends on the type of property and income level. Families living in extreme poverty may be exempt from symbolic fees or pay significantly reduced rates.

How do registrations work?

Registration must be done through public gang — official notice published by comune or region. These notices are opened periodically, usually once a year, and published on the websites of city halls or ATER/ALER entities.

To apply, the candidate must:

  1. Wait for the announcement to be made in your comune or region;
  2. Fill out the registration form with personal and family information;
  3. Attach mandatory documents, such as:
    • Identity document;
    • Tax Code (Codice Fiscale);
    • Updated ISEE certificate;
    • Family composition certificate (Stato di famiglia);
    • Proof of current residence.
  4. Submit everything within the deadline established in the notice.

Useful links by region

Below, you can check the official websites where you can follow the opening of the notices and register:

Each website provides detailed instructions on the criteria, documents and deadlines for each region.

Tips to increase your chances

  • Keep your Updated ISEE every year;
  • Regularly monitor the website of your local city hall or ATER;
  • Organize all documents before opening the notice;
  • If possible, ask a social worker or employer for help;
  • If you've been part of a previous group, keep an eye on waiting lists.

O ERP Project – Edilizia Residenziale Pubblica It's an excellent opportunity for low-income families to secure decent, stable housing in Italy. The process may require patience and adherence to deadlines, but it represents a right guaranteed by law and accessible to citizens and legal residents.

If you meet the criteria, don't miss this opportunity. Follow the notices in your region, organize your documents, and apply as soon as possible. A safe, affordable, and legally backed home can change your family's life.

Keep an eye out: Spots are limited and highly competitive. Sign up and share this information with anyone who needs it!

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