Student Visa and residence permit in Italy
Italy, with its prestigious universities, rich cultural heritage, and internationally renowned lifestyle, is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students. Non-EU citizens who intend to study in Italy for periods exceeding 90 days are required to obtain a Student Visa, which is mandatory for entry into the country and serves as a prerequisite for applying for a Residence Permit for Study after arrival.
Who Must Apply and When
The Student Visa must be applied for prior to entering Italy at the competent Italian Embassy or Consulate in the student’s country of residence. EU citizens do not require a visa but must register with the local municipal registry (Anagrafe) within 90 days of arrival. It is strongly recommended to begin the application process well in advance of the start of the academic program, as processing times may vary depending on the consular office.
Requirements for Obtaining the Visa
To obtain a Student Visa, the foreign student must demonstrate that they:
- Have been admitted to a course offered by a recognized Italian institution, such as universities, master’s programs, PhD programs, language schools, artistic academies, or legally recognized vocational training courses.
- Have sufficient financial means to cover living expenses, tuition, and return travel to the country of origin (for the 2025/2026 academic year, a minimum income of approximately EUR 7,000 is required). Financial means may be demonstrated through personal or family guarantees, or guarantees provided by recognized Italian or foreign institutions or entities. Bank guarantees or third-party sureties are not accepted.
- Hold valid health insurance coverage in Italy, either through private insurance or enrollment in the Italian National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale – SSN).
- Have suitable accommodation available for the entire duration of the stay.
Required documentation includes the admission letter from the educational institution, proof of financial means, health insurance coverage, accommodation documentation, and—if issued abroad—official translations and legalization or apostille, where applicable.
Residence Permit for Study Purposes
Once in Italy, the student must apply for the Residence Permit for Study within eight working days at the competent Immigration Office (Questura), by submitting the postal application kit together with the required documentation and government fees. The residence permit allows lawful stay in Italy for the full duration of the study program and may be renewed annually, subject to proof of continued enrollment and satisfactory academic progress.
The permit may also be renewed in the event of a change of course or faculty, provided that academic approval is obtained and updated documentation is submitted. For multi-year programs, the residence permit may be renewed for up to three years beyond the official duration of the course. For single-course programs, renewal is permitted only if the student enrolls in a subsequent or related course.
Employment While Studying
Students holding a residence permit for study purposes are allowed to engage in subordinate employment for up to 20 hours per week, with a maximum of 1,040 hours per year, provided that such employment does not interfere with their studies. Conversion of the study residence permit into a work permit is subject to specific legal requirements and to the annual immigration quotas established by Italian law.
Family Reunification
Holders of a residence permit for study purposes may apply for authorization for family reunification, particularly for parents or minor children, in accordance with the applicable regulations.
Conversion of the Residence Permit
The residence permit for study purposes may be converted into a work permit at any time during the year, regardless of whether the course of study has been completed, provided that all statutory conditions are met.
SmartLivingItaly assists students and their families throughout the entire visa and residence permit process, managing all bureaucratic formalities with expertise and professionalism, while minimizing errors and delays.
