Residence permit for study purposes: is it possible to work?

The residence permit for study purposes is the document that allows foreign citizens to legally stay in Italy in order to attend an educational program lasting more than three months. It may apply to university, vocational training courses, internships, secondary schools, or professional qualification exams. The duration generally ranges from six months to one year, and the permit can be renewed until the completion of the course of study.

One of the most frequently asked questions concerns the possibility of working while holding this type of permit. Let’s take a closer look at what the law provides.

Employment: what are the limits?

Foreign students are allowed to work as employees under certain conditions:

• a maximum of 20 hours per week,
• with an annual cap of 1,040 hours in total.

The rule is based on the principle that studying must remain the primary activity compared to working. However, there is some flexibility: if the student concentrates their working hours in a limited period (for example, during holidays), they may exceed 20 hours per week, provided they do not surpass the overall annual limit.

If one wishes to work more extensively, it will be necessary to convert the study permit into a work permit.

Self-Employment: broader possibilities

Unlike employment, self-employment is not subject to an hourly limit. The residence permit for study purposes is considered one of the permits that allow self-employed work. For instance, those who wish to open a VAT number can do so, provided they meet the legal requirements and have the necessary documentation. In this case, it is also possible to request the conversion of the permit from study to self-employment, if one intends to engage in such activity on a stable basis.

Internships

The residence permit for study or training purposes also allows participation in internships, both curricular (linked to the course of study) and extracurricular, aimed at job placement. In this case, it is not considered actual employment, so the hourly limits applicable to employment contracts do not apply.

Internships represent a valuable tool for acquiring practical skills and facilitating entry into the job market.

Converting the study permit into a work permit

Before the permit expires, the holder may request its conversion into a work permit:

• Employment permit, by presenting documentation relating to an existing work contract;
• Self-employment permit, by demonstrating financial resources and the necessary requirements for the activity to be carried out (for example, registration with the Chamber of Commerce for artisans, traders, or entrepreneurs).

This option represents an important opportunity for those who, after completing their studies in Italy, wish to undertake a stable professional activity in the country.

Conclusions

In summary, the residence permit for study purposes not only allows individuals to attend courses and training programs in Italy but also opens the door to work experiences, although within specific limits. Students can support themselves with part-time jobs, start self-employed activities, participate in internships, and, upon completing their studies, convert the permit into a work-related title.

In this way, staying in Italy for study purposes becomes not only a learning opportunity but also a genuine chance for personal and professional growth.

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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.