Students that reside within the European Union can stay in Italy as long as they have an EU ID card or valid passport. They do not need a visa during their study duration but are required to register at the nearest police station (Questura) if their program goes beyond 90 days. Registration at the police station enables them to get a residence permit. For non-EU nationals, the student visas are obtained at Italian embassies or consulates in their home country and required to enter Italy.
Student Visas
Visas for students from non-EU countries are of two types and depend on the length of the study program.
- Type C – for those that are visiting for a short-stay or need a valid travel visa. The visa can be used for more than one entry within 90 days.
- Type D – for those that plan to stay for more than three months. It is usually referred to as a long-stay visa and those that have it have to report to the police station eight days after arrival. After a successful visit, you will be sent a residence permit card to be used to prove your legal status in Italy.
Typically, obtaining a student visa is straightforward as long as you have all the paperwork in place. It is important to start the application process early as it can take some time to receive approval. Make an appointment with an Italian embassy or consulate in your home country when you receive a confirmation of admission from your preferred institution. Visa requirements for students may change so it is advisable to contact the embassy to get current information on their requirements.
Students planning to study in Italian institutions from non-EU countries are expected to present the following documents alongside their visa application form.
- Valid passport with two blank visa pages (validity should cover 90 days after end date of program)
- Proof of accommodation (hostel or host family)
- Acceptance letter from an Italian institution
- Travel itinerary to Italy and back home
- Proof of no criminal record
- Evidence of language proficiency (Italian or English) for a study program
- Sufficient funds for monthly upkeep in Italy (€450 to €515)
- Proof of adequate medical insurance
- Proof of fee payment for the visa – unless covered by institutions offering scholarships
Your student visa application will get a response after 3 -4 weeks. However, it can take longer when the documentation provided is incomplete or inaccurate.
Fees:
Non-refundable visa fee of €50
Residence permit of €76
