Studying in Italy: visa and residence permit for study reasons

Legislative Decree 286/98 regulates the entry of people who intend to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Italy. The relevant article is 39, and the possibility of obtaining an entry visa as a student and the corresponding residence permit is regulated outside the quota system of the "flows decree".

Who can apply for it?

In order to obtain a study visa, it is above all necessary to have identified the course to be taken and to have successfully gone through the entire pre-enrollment process (most often through the UniversItaly portal): in fact, it is necessary for the course provider institution to have accepted the applicant in order for them to successfully apply for the visa.

Permission will then be granted to those who demonstrate that they:

i. be enrolled in the course to be taken

ii. have sufficient financial means to support themselves

iii. have an accommodation arrangement

The permit is issued for the duration of the course, even multi-year, up to a maximum of 2 years, and can be renewed if you continue your studies.

In addition, with the study residence permit it is possible to work, for a maximum of 20 hours per week or 1040 hours in total.

The procedure in a nutshell

Here is what to do to enter Italy and work within the framework of a residence permit for study purposes:

1. pre-enrollment / enrollment in the course of study in Italy

2. application for an entry visa, submitted by the worker at the Italian Consulate competent for the place of residence

3. entry into Italy and within 8 days application for residence permit to the Police office via postal kit

4. attend the fingerprinting appointment at the local Police office

5. collect the residence permit at the local Police office

The Police office usually issues a residence permit valid for up to 1 year, renewable under certain conditions.

Benefits of obtaining a study visa and residence permit

The residence permit for study purposes allows you to reside in Italy for the duration of the course to be taken (through possible renewals), and in addition, allows you to work, for a maximum of 20 hours per week or 1040 hours in total.          

This residence permit cannot be converted into an EU long-term residence permit, but only into permits for waiting for employment and/or for work, whether subordinate or self-employed. The period of residence with this permit, however, is counted when applying for conversion to an EU long-term residence permit.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

Our team is available to provide support and assistance throughout the process! Contact us to book your first consultation with us and to start the process to obtain a study visa and residence permit! #YourWaytoItaly

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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.