Italy
Italy is an EU and Schengen member that uses the euro. The main routes for skilled non-EU workers are the EU Blue Card and the employer-sponsored Decreto Flussi quota route.
For information only. Visa rules, processing times, and eligibility criteria change frequently. All information on this page is sourced from official government websites and verified as of the date shown. Always confirm your specific situation with the relevant embassy or a licensed immigration lawyer before applying. Full disclaimer ↗
Studying in Italy
Everything you need to know about getting a student visa, finding a university, and living in Italy as an international student.
Student Visa Requirements
Visa type: National (type D) study visa, followed by a study residence permit (permesso di soggiorno per studio).
Key requirements: Pre-enrol on Universitaly (degree courses, when a visa is needed). You must show at least €10,179.85 a year, plus the cost of a return ticket. The study visa fee is €50.
Processing time: Apply for the permesso di soggiorno within 8 working days of arrival. The Polizia di Stato says residence permits take about 60 days on average.
Part-time work: Up to 20 hours a week, all year round, within a cap of 1,040 hours a year.
After graduation: A 9–12 month permit to look for work or start a business after an Italian degree (Permesso di soggiorno per ricerca lavoro o imprenditorialità degli studenti). You can also switch your study permit to a work permit while it is still valid.
MAECI: studying in Italy ↗Top Universities
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Funds, health cover and staying after graduation
For university enrolment the consulate asks for at least €10,179.85 a year. Bank guarantees are not accepted as proof.
📋 Before you apply
- Pre-enrolment:Pre-enrol on Universitaly (degree courses, when a visa is needed).
- Health cover:Students are not covered by mandatory SSN enrolment, but can enrol voluntarily for at least €700 a year.
- After your degree:Apply for the 9–12 month job-search permit before your study permit expires.
Common mistake: Arriving and forgetting the residence permit. Apply for the permesso di soggiorno within 8 working days of arrival, at the Questura for your municipality.
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