Integration agreement for Non-European Union citizens

Moving to Italy for work, study, or family reunification involves not only obtaining the necessary documents but also complying with specific obligations established by Italian law. Among these is the Integration Agreement, a tool designed to facilitate the integration of citizens from countries outside the European Union.

For those applying for an Italian visa and subsequently for a residence permit, understanding how this agreement works is essential to avoid difficulties during their stay in Italy.

What is the Integration Agreement?

The Integration Agreement is a mutual commitment between the Italian State and third-country nationals who enter Italy for the first time and apply for a residence permit valid for one year or longer.

Introduced by Presidential Decree No. 179 of 14 September 2011, the system aims to promote genuine integration into Italian society through knowledge of the Italian language, civic principles, and the fundamental rules of social coexistence.

On the one hand, the Italian State undertakes to guarantee access to fundamental rights and to provide tools that support social integration. On the other hand, the foreign citizen agrees to comply with Italian laws and to actively participate in their integration process. If minor children are present, the applicant is also required to promote their regular school attendance.

Who is required to sign the Integration Agreement?

In most cases, the Integration Agreement must be signed by non-EU citizens entering Italy for the first time who apply for a residence permit valid for at least twelve months.

However, some categories are exempt from this obligation, including:

• Unaccompanied foreign minors;

• Individuals suffering from serious illnesses or disabilities that prevent participation in the integration process;

• Beneficiaries of international protection and asylum seekers;

• Foreign family members of European Union citizens holding the appropriate residence card.

Where and how is the Integration Agreement signed?

The agreement is generally signed at the competent Prefecture during the appointment following entry into Italy. During this stage, the administrative procedures necessary to continue the residence permit process are completed.

Those who entered Italy with an entry clearance (nulla osta) may sign the agreement at the competent Prefecture. In cases where such authorization is not required, the agreement may also be signed at the local Police Headquarters (Questura).

The agreement is provided in two copies: one in Italian and another translated into a language understood by the foreign citizen. Available languages include English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Albanian, Russian, and Filipino.

The credit system

The Integration Agreement is based on a credit system. Its standard duration is two years, with the possibility of a twelve-month extension if necessary.

Upon signing, applicants are awarded 16 initial credits, representing a basic level of knowledge of the Italian language and the main principles of civic education.

To successfully complete the process, at least 30 credits must be obtained. To support this objective, within 90 days of signing the agreement, the Prefecture organizes free civic education courses lasting approximately ten hours at the Provincial Adult Education Centres (CPIA) or other authorized institutions.

Credits increase through participation in the required activities and the achievement of the established objectives. However, they may also be reduced in the event of particularly serious violations of Italian law or certain criminal convictions.

How is the integration process assessed?

Approximately one month before the agreement expires, the Prefecture begins the final assessment of the integration process.

The foreign citizen has 15 days to submit documentation proving the credits earned or, where necessary, to take an assessment demonstrating Italian language proficiency at at least A2 level and adequate knowledge of civic education.

At the end of the assessment, one of the following outcomes applies:

• If at least 30 credits have been obtained, the Integration Agreement is successfully completed.

• If the score is above zero but below 30 credits, the agreement is extended for one additional year to allow completion of the integration process.

• If the score is zero or negative, proceedings may be initiated to revoke the residence permit.

Why is it important to comply with the Integration Agreement?

The Integration Agreement is not merely an administrative requirement. It is a tool designed to facilitate the integration of foreign nationals into Italian society. Attending the required courses, acquiring a good command of the Italian language, and complying with Italian laws enable individuals to live in Italy with greater confidence while avoiding consequences that could affect the validity of their residence permit.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.

Article written by Alessia Ajelli, Managing Associate of LCA Studio Legale, Italian lawyer specialized on Italian immigration and citizenship law, and Paolo Grassi, Trainee of LCA Studio Legale.