Visa and residence permit for researchers in Italy

Italy offers a specific visa and residence permit designed to attract highly qualified researchers from non-EU countries. This permit is governed by Article 27-ter of Legislative Decree 286/1998 (Consolidated Immigration Act) and is intended to facilitate the entry and temporary stay of researchers conducting scientific activities at Italian research institutions recognized by the Ministry of University and Research (MIUR).

Who is eligible?

This type of visa and residence permit is intended for non-EU citizens selected by an Italian research institution accredited by MIUR to carry out a scientific research project. It is not a generic visa for workers or students, but a legal instrument aimed at promoting scientific and academic research in the country.

Requirements and procedure

1. Hosting agreement

The process begins with the signing of a hosting agreement between the foreign researcher and the Italian research institution. This document must include:

• the legal nature and conditions of the relationship between the researcher and the institution
• a description of the research project and its estimated duration
• the researcher’s commitment to complete the project
• proof of sufficient financial resources (at least twice the annual threshold for social benefits, i.e., €14,005.94 in 2025)
• health insurance coverage (private policy or registration with the National Health Service)
• return travel expenses to the country of origin
• information about possible stays in other EU Member States

1. Institutional approval

The agreement must be approved by the competent bodies of the institution, which verify:

• the researcher’s academic suitability (recognized qualifications)
• the consistency between the researcher’s profile and the research topic
• the availability of material and financial resources for the project

1. Visa application
2. Once the agreement is approved, the institution submits the documentation to the local Immigration Desk (SUI), attaching the MIUR accreditation certificate. With this authorization, the researcher can apply for a national type D visa at the Italian consulate in their country of residence.
3. Entry into Italy and formalization

After entering Italy, the researcher has 8 days to appear before the SUI, sign the residence contract, and initiate the process for the final residence permit by sending the postal kit and subsequently undergoing fingerprinting at the police headquarters (Questura).

Duration and renewal

The residence permit is valid for the duration of the research project and can be renewed if the activity continues. The research institution is responsible for applying for the renewal.

Permit conversion

Once the research activity has been completed, the researcher may:

• convert the permit into one for employed work if employment is secured
• apply for a “job-seeking” permit to look for work in Italy

In both cases, documentation certifying the completion of the research activity must be submitted at the time of application or within 60 days. Otherwise, the new permit, even if already issued, may be revoked.

Limitations

It is important to note that during the validity of the residence permit as a researcher, it is not permitted to be freely employed by other employers if this involves a change in legal status unrelated to the research project. Only after the project's conclusion, and with the required documentation, can the permit be converted.

Conclusion

The visa and residence permit for researchers in Italy is an efficient and targeted tool to attract international talent to national scientific research. However, it requires strict compliance with regulations and strong institutional support from the host entity. For researchers, it is a privileged gateway to Italy and Europe, but it is essential to have a clear understanding of the path to follow, both during and after the research project.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general guidance on the topic. You should seek specialized advice regarding your specific situation.