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Are you considering studying in ITALY? Europe’s favourite boot-shaped nation, Italy is a country of diverse beauty, culture, and history. From the Alps in the North to coastal beaches in the South and everything in between, choosing to study abroad in Italy will give you access to an incredible array of cultural, historic and touristic heritage.
Education in Italy is highly esteemed with a wide range of excellent academic institutions spread across the country where international students are warmly welcomed. Italy has played an important role in academia, fostering the reform of European higher education through the Bologna Process. Students pursuing an education in Italy will gain valuable knowledge in the classroom, and important cultural competency in one of Europe’s youngest republics. Regions play a major role in Italy’s dynamism. The North, Centre and Southern parts of the country are further divided into 20 smaller regions. Italian history significantly inspires contemporary Italian culture, as before Italy became a nation state in 1861 the peninsula was grouped into diverse kingdoms including the Papal States (later to become modern day Vatican City). Given the complexity of its regional history, Italian culture is highly diversified, and the different regions all have distinct academic and popular traditions, linguistic dialects and world-famous delectable cuisines.
Italy is known for its harsh winters and short summers. Thanks to its proximity to the polar circle, it never really gets dark in the summertime – while the sky does not really light up during winter, on the other hand. As other Nordic nations, Italy typically celebrates the summer solstice, when the sun hours reach their annual maximum in mid-June.
Country Information – Benefits to be in ITALY
Studying in Italy, Visiting Italy or moving for work to Italy! In recent years, Italy, one of Europe’s overlooked studies abroad destinations, has experienced a huge boost in interest from prospective students, and we think we know why.Italy’s universities are some of the oldest in Europe and in the world. The University of Bologna was founded in 1088, the University of Padua in 1222, and the University of Naples in 1224. The education system in Italy has followed the Bologna system since 1999. The 3+2, 3-cycle system means you can get graduate from an Italian university with bachelor’s and master’s qualifications after 5 years of study. With such longstanding higher education institutions, Italian student traditions are equally as historic!
Depending on the region and institution you’re studying in, students at your university may partake in any number of student life traditions specific to Italy. Upon graduating from an Italian university, students across Italy have a green laurea wreath (symbolizing knowledge) placed upon their heads by someone already holding a degree. Some higher education institutions have goliardia (like fraternities or sororities in the United States), and you may end up defending your thesis in front of a panel of professors and an audience of friends and family members in order to graduate.But, choosing to study abroad in Italy will mean experiencing more than just academic life. Italians are known for being social, and by making even a small effort in to learn Italian you’ll find yourself making friends with locals in no time. From breathtaking nature to countless museums and theatres, and exciting nightlife in even the smallest of Italian towns, Italy will feel like home in the blink of an eye. Getting into an international university takes time and careful research, and we’ve compiled everything you need to know to make the experience as smooth as possible. Read this guide to prepare for an Italian experience of a lifetime and you’ll be packing your bags soon enough!
- Degree and Institution Types: Based on the Bologna Process, the education system in Italy was reformed in 1999 to create a cohesive system of education throughout Europe. Since then, Italy has implemented a 3-cycle system consisting of the following: First Cycle: Bachelor’s degrees (3 years) and single-cycle degrees. Second Cycle: Master’s degrees (2 years) and 1st level vocational masters. Third Cycle: Doctorate (5-6 years) specialization school and 2nd Level vocational masters. In terms of types of institutions, there are two broad institutional categories that make up the higher education sector in Italy: the university institutions and non-university institutions which include Higher Education in the Arts and Music (Alta formazione Artistica e Musicale or AFAM).
- UNIVERSITIES: The university sector is made up of 89 university institutions (as well as polytechnic institutions) classified within the following categories:
- 58 state universities – public entities endowed with scientific, teaching, managerial, financial and book-keeping autonomy
- 17 non-state universities – legally recognized by the state
- 2 universities for foreigners – specialized in teaching/ research for development of Italian language, literature, culture
- 6 higher education schools – specialized in postgraduate university studies
- 6 distance-learning universities
- 4 polytechnical schools
- NON-UNVERSITY SECTOR: AFAM institutions, including State Academies of Fine Arts, legally recognised Academies of Fine Arts, Higher Schools of Design, State Music Conservatories, Higher Institutes for Musical Studies, National Dance Academy, National Academy of Drama.
- Higher integrated education (FIS): programs of higher technical education & training (IFTS)
- Higher education in language mediation: education institutions for language mediators
- Specific fields (e.g., archiving, military studies, restoration)
Details about Educational institutes, Colleges, Universities
Student have lots of institutions to choose from for education in Italy. A desire to pursue higher education and earn a degree doesn’t have to be stressful, boring or something to trudge through especially if you vault over one of the top universities or colleges in Italy.
- University in Italy for International Students: There are over 60 universities in Italy for international students to choose from. These universities are either categorised as public or private. A lot of these universities offer courses in both Italian and English languages, however, those international students applying for the Italian language-instructed courses will have to meet certain language criteria.
- Public Universities in Italy: There are around 11 public universities in Italy, and international students can apply for admission here as well.
- Safety in Italy: As per the Global Peace Index 2022, Italy ranks at #32 for being one of the most peaceful, safest, secure, and conflict-free countries in the world. Since the Italian Penal Code for criminals is extreme, it’s either death or life imprisonment, and the crime rates in Italy are very low. On the whole, Italy is safe not only for its citizens but also for its tourists and international students.
- Weather in Italy: Unlike any other country, Italy also has four seasons – Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. With these seasons, the temperatures and weather types also fluctuate and so international students going to study in Italy must carry their clothes accordingly, depending upon their stay.
List of Top Italy Universities:
- Politecnico di Milano
- University of Bologna
- Sapienza University of Rome
- University of Padua
- University of Milan
- Politecnico di Torino
- University of Pisa
- University of Naples Federico II
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
- University of Trento
- University of Florence
- University of Turin
- University of Rome Tor Vergata
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
- University of Pavia
- Polytechnic University of Bari
- University of Milano-Bicocca
- University of Genoa
- Free University of Bozen-Bolzano
- University of Trieste
- University of Siena
- Ca’ Foscari University of Venice
- Marche Polytechnic University
- Roma Tre University
- University of Bari Aldo Moro
- University of Brescia
- University of Catania
- University of Urbino
- Università degli Studi dell’Insubria
- University of Ferrara
- University of Messina
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia
- University of Parma
- University of Perugia
- University of Verona
- Parthenope University of Naples
- Tuscia University
- University of Calabria
- University of Palermo
- University of Salerno
- University of Udine
- University of Bergamo
- University of Chieti-Pescara
- Bocconi University
- Humanitas University
- International School for Advanced Studies
- Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies
- Scuola Normale Superiore
- University of Cagliari
- University of Camerino (Unicam)
- University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”
- University of Eastern Piedmont
- University of Foggia
- University of L’Aquila
- University of Salento
- University of Sannio
- University of Sassari
Language Tests or Language requirements
Do I need to pass and ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEST to study in Italy? Is the question you must be having in your mind. Let us make it clear and precise for you. If your first language is not English, you’ll need to show excellent language proficiency to apply to a French university.
English Language Tests for International Students: Every university in Italy accepts IELTS Academic as well as TOEFL iBT or PBT, and almost all also accept the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic), the Cambridge ESOL’s Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), or the Cambridge ESOL’s Certificate in Advanced English (CAE).
- IELTS: IELTS is a commonly accepted English test all over the world. The most common requirement to study in Italy in an English-language Masters or Bachelor’s degree programme. an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no section below 5.5), an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no section below 5.5), and/or an IELTS score of 7.0 (with no section below 6.0). When applying to universities in Italy, keep in mind that the minimum IELTS score required may vary depending on the institution and program. However, as a general guideline, you’ll likely need to achieve a score of at least 6.5 in each section to be considered for admission.
- TOEFL: TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is accepted by most Italy universities and colleges. A TOEFL PBT overall score of 550–583, a TOEFL iBT an overall score of 80–83, and/or a TOEFL cBT score of 212–237 in the written test with an overall score of 90, When applying to universities in Italy, it’s important to research which English proficiency tests are accepted by your desired institutions and programs. The minimum required TOEFL score varies depending on the institution, with a typical range of 70 to 80. However, some universities may prefer one exam over the other, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your program.
- DUOLINGO: Going a bit virtual, Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test gaining popularity among Italian universities. The Duolingo test also measures the same four language skills but in an adaptive format. Universities accepting Duolingo scores are the University of Eastern Italy and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences. The minimum accepted score varies, but most universities require at least 95 out of 160. But as compared to the other two, Duolingo offers an affordable and accessible option for students who need to prove their English proficiency.
- CAE: CAE or Cambridge Advanced English is accepted by Italy universities too. You can use your score to follow your university and university applications quickly. Proficiency test should be cleared with “B” rank.
- CILS (Certification of Italian as a Foreign Language): CILS is a well-renowned Italian Language certification to determine the competency of international students in the national language. It is officially recognized by the European Language Testing Association, which accredits its recognition. There are six levels of the language certificate ranging from A1 to C2, which the students can opt for depending on their level of expertise. All 6 levels of CILS are scored differently hence, making their minimum passing point requirement varied. For instance, the passing score for A1 is 30/60 (beginner), while it is 70/100 for C2 (most advanced) level. There are exceptions to the score requirements depending on the university, and the program opted for by the student.
- CELI (Certificate of Knowledge of the Italian Language): CELI can be taken by international students regardless of their nationality. It is offered by The University for Foreigners of Perugia and is one of the most accurate language proficiency exams in Italy for international students. The CELI test is very similar to CILS in its pattern. It also consists of 6 levels ranging from A1 to C2. The tests have various sections, such as speaking, reading, writing, and listening. CELI is offered various times a year, which provides international students with a wide window to take this test around the year. International students need to ensure that they pass each of the CELI sections and obtain an average passing score. All levels are scored differently. For instance, the passing score for A1 is 30/60, while it is 80/100 for the C2 level. However, students must go through the program requirements to determine the minimum grade requirement for them.
VISA types and Its Understandings
A student visa is a type of visa required by foreign nationals to study and stay in Italy for the duration of their studies. A student who is not a citizen of Italy but wants to study in Italy requires a Italy Student Visa to fulfil this purpose. Any foreign student who enrols on a course lasting three months or more in Italy will require a student visa.
There are different types of visas meant for people intending to pursue educational activities in Italy. The type of visa that you require to travel or migrate to Italy depends on your purpose of visit and the number of days you intend to remain there. The Different Types Of Visas To Italy: The people who wish to travel to Italy have to apply for a visa at least 3 months before the date of travel. Depending on the period of stay the Italian visas are classified as short-stay visas and long-stay visas.
Type of Visa for Italy
- Short Stay Italian Student Visa (Type C):A Italian Student Visa is an official document that authorizes international students to stay in Italy for enrolment in a Italy-based educational institution. The visa is usually valid for the student’s study duration in Italy which is less than 90 days.
- Long Stay Italian Student Visa (Type D): If your study is going to last for more than 90 days, than you need to apply for a Visa D and that gives you access to study in Italy for the entire duration of your study. A foreign national who wishes to pursue higher education in Italy for more than 90 days require a student visa to Italy. A residence permit is also required, to stay in Italy legally. You must be over 18 years of age. Proof of enrollment in a college/university that is legally approved in Italy. The international student has to apply for the visa at the Italian embassy / Italian consulate in their native land. An international student is allowed to work part-time using this visa. The maximum time per week is 20 hours.
- Italian Work Visa: A foreign national who does not belong to the EU or the EEA requires an Italian work visa to work in Italy. You can apply for this visa only after securing a job in Italy. Most of the occupations in Italy has a quota system. You can get a job only if they’ve failed to meet the limit of the quota. The requirements vary from place to place. The employer has to get you a work permit. You can apply for a work visa only after obtaining this permit from your employer. You need to apply for it at the Italian consulate or the Italian embassy in your native country/ Once you get the work visa you can enter the country and apply for a residence permit. The validity of the work visa depends on the duration of your employment contract in Italy. The maximum time limit is 2 years. Work visa can be renewed for a maximum of 5 years.
Admission & VISA Application Process
Admission process explained in a simplified way
- Apply for a school in Italy
- Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Submit Visa Application & Book Biometric at VAC
- Attend Visa Interview
- Visa Approve or Decline
1. Apply for a school in Italy
- Before you apply for a student visa you will need to apply for admission into the Undergraduate or Graduate program. Before starting your study abroad in Italy, you will have to be admitted and get a study visa. As a potential future student in Italy, the first thing you need to do is find a university there that suits your study program. As soon as you have a school in mind then you should apply at the university. If you are not accepted, you won’t receive a student visa. Proof of enrolment is obligatory.
2. Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Now that you have been admitted and you receive a document called Letter of Acceptance from the institution’s international student office. You will be instructed to pay some fees to confirm your admission to the institution. Pay the fees from your bank account for safer transactions and then get Final Offer Letter from the college.
- Once you receive your acceptance letter then you can apply for a student visa. In this case, you actually need a residence permit on the basis of studying. The application process for the permit starts by creating a user account. Once you create an account select the application form for a ‘residence permit on the grounds of a study program’ in the e-service.
- Fill in the online application with the correct information and submit your application. You must attach scanned copies of the required documents (see above) to your application. If by any chance you can’t fill in an online application then you can visit a local embassy or consulate and fill in a paper application in person.
3. Submit Visa Application & Book your Biometric at VAC
- You must submit the student visa application to the Italian Agency Once you submit your application through the e-service then you have to go to the embassy to prove your identity and submit your fingerprints. Bring all the documents you submitted in the online service with you. Additionally, you must pay the application fee at the embassy/consulate. If you apply in person then similarly you will be asked to submit your fingerprints and pay the fee. You might also be asked to sit for an interview. The interview is just to get a feel of your personality and your reasons why you want to study in Italy.
4. Attend Visa Interview
- Now is the time to wait for reply from High Commission and based on your application, biometric and details you will be asked to submit documents (if required). Attend the interview.The embassy will ask you to show up for an interview to ask questions related to your application process and education. Then, you must wait to receive an answer whether your application has been accepted or rejected.
5. VISA Approve or Decline
- Once you submit your application you must patiently wait for an answer. The Italian Immigration Office evaluates students’ applications as a top priority so the processing time will be done as soon as possible.
- The time will vary especially if you are missing anything from your application and the embassy contacts you to submit the missing documents, but, the usual time it takes to review an application is usually sometime between 1 to 3 months. As soon as your application has been approved the Italian Immigration Office will send your residence card to the embassy where you can then pick it up and leave for Italy.
Applying for Student Visa?
Understand the procedure and then only start the visa application process. You are expected to apply six months in advance of your trip. It takes about four to eight weeks to get your visa if you do not forget to submit any documents or have to re-submit them. Here are the steps for applying for your Italy student visa:
Eligibility Criteria for Italian Student Visa: To be eligible for a visa to study in Italy you must fulfil the following conditions. These are some of the documents you need to submit during the application for a residence permit.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- You must have a valid passport at the time of your application. Your passport is considered valid if it was issued during the last 10 years and it won’t expire for another three months after you depart Italy.
- Identity picture. A recent identity picture must be part of the application.
- Copy of your passport’s bio page. In recent years Italy now requires applicants for any type of visa to attach a copy of their passport’s bio page.
- Proof of enrolment. You need to provide proof that you were accepted for a study program at a university in Italy.
- Health insurance. You must also provide International Student Health Insurance that covers all kinds of medical emergencies and is valid during your stay in Italy.
- Sufficient financial means. You must have at least €660 in your personal bank account per month that covers everyday expenses during your studies.
- Proof of paid tuition fee. You must include a certificate proving that you have paid your tuition fee, if you haven’t done so then you need to provide evidence that you have enough financial means to pay the fee.
- Evidence of scholarship. If you are the beneficiary of a scholarship that covers your tuition fee then you need to provide a certificate proving that you will be supported financially by the scholarship.
- Civil status documents. This refers to documents such as your birth certificate, marriage license, divorce license, adoption paper, etc.
- Previous certificate degrees. These are not required for degree students and exchange students.
- Proof of accommodation arrangement during your studies.
- Visa Fee will not be reimbursed in case of visa refusal.
Dos and Don’ts for Italy Student Visa Application: You need to remember the following dos and don’ts while applying for Italy student visa.
Dos
- Apply for a student visa at least 5 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application procedure to be completed on time for you to join your course.
- Remember that if you are applying online, you can only apply for your visa a maximum of 180 days before your course starts
- Fill up your visa application form carefully with all accurate details.
- Submit all the required supporting documents along with your visa application form.
Don’ts
- Do not present false documents for your visa.
- Do not provide any false information.
- Do not hide or misrepresent facts in your visa application.
Financial requirements, Finances & Cost of Living
How much does it cost to study in Italy? Italy remains the most preferred among most international students when it comes to popular study-abroad destination options. However, proof of clear available funds is required to pursue studies in Italy to cover tuition and living expenses.
- How much are the tuition fees in Italy?
- How to prove funds for Italy?
- How much does student accommodation costs in Italy?
- How much does it cost to live in Italy?
- What financial support is available to international students in Italy?
How much are the TUITION FEES in Italy?
- Italy is one of the most popular destinations for university study but, like the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, it is not much expensive.
- Italy does not charge any kind of tuition fees for students coming from EU/EE and Switzerland. Studying in Italy is considerably cheaper than in other countries. On average, tuition fees at public Italian universities range from €800 to €7,000 per year. They can vary depending on the course you enrol in and, most importantly, based on your family income. You will need to submit an application to have your household income assessed in order for the university to determine your fee level. This means your fees could end up being considerably cheaper. Fees can be higher at private universities or at business schools. For example, at the Università Bocconi in Milan, fees are around €13,000; and at Università Cattolica Sacro Cuore (also Milan), prices run as high as €26,000 per year.
How to prove FUNDS for Italy?
- In order to pursue your studies in Italy, proof of sufficient funds is required to cover tuition and living expenses. You can prove to fund with the following.
- International students interested to study in Italy must have financial ability to live during their study in Italy.
- If you are a student of outside the European Union you should look at this sponsor money matters. You need to prove that you have sufficient funds available to study and live in Italy using your personal bank statement.
- Amount: When you apply for the study permit and visa to Italy you must provide financial information by providing your personal bank statement. All applicants must prove they can afford their living expenses during their studies. The amount is 11,500 Euros per year.
- Proof you paid for tuition and housing. Travellers’ cheque, your international bank account also can be an added document.
- A savings book or deposits in a bank (the account has to be accessible from Italy). Proof of purchase of traveller’s cheques. A letter of guarantee from a person living in Italy or an institution domiciled in Italy. A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 6 last months). Credit card. Cash. Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay (sponsor must have a legal residence permit). Proof of prepaid accommodation
How much does the student ACCOMODATION costs in Italy?
Accommodation Cost: The major proportion of your monthly allowance will be spent on accommodation. The university provided accommodation is the apt and the cheapest cost option for foreign students. Private accommodation cost will vary from location to location and based on facilities offered by landlords. But at any case you are likely to spend 400 to 500 Euros per month on accommodation in Italy. The types of accommodation in Italy for foreign students with monthly costs are as: (1) University Dorm Room: 250 to 300 Euros per month. (2) 1 Bedroom Flat or Studio Apartment in Central City Area: 600 Euros per month. (3) 1 Bedroom Flat or Studio Apartment outside Central City Area: 450 Euros per month. (4) 3 Bedrooms Flat in Central City Area: 1,025 Euros per month. (5) 3 Bedrooms Flat outside Central City Area: 750 Euros per month.
How much does it cost to LIVE in Italy?
- The living expenses in Italy comprise of accommodation, books and supplies, food, grocery, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses. The average living expenses in Italy can range from 1,500 EUR to 2,000 EUR per month, depending on your standard of living. The overall living expenses in Italy have been discussed briefly below:
- The overall living costs in Italy are between 1000 and 1500 Euros a month. This estimate includes accommodation, food costs, public transportation, local travel and entertainment-related costs. Of course, Rome is much more expensive than other cities and towns.
- Accommodation in Italy: Out of the total monthly expenditures of the international students, around thirty-five percent is spent on accommodation. The rates for accommodation in Italy are on an average between 200 to 300 Euros a month. For students who live alone, the average spending is 266 Euros a month, for those who live in student accommodations it is 257 Euros a month, and for students who live with their partners or children, the average accommodation-related spending is 133 Euros a month.
- Cost of Food in Italy: Buying food from the Italian supermarkets is not expensive. One can easily sustain by spending roughly 150 Euros every month for food. On an average, an Italian lunch or dinner costs between 5 to 12 Euros. However, in mid-range restaurants, pasta dishes cost between 6 and 12 Euros, and fish and meat courses cost between 8 and 16 Euros.
- Transportation in Italy: Of course, public transportation is the best means to travel around. A monthly bus, tram or metro ticket costs between 25 and 35 Euros a month. One can also travel by trains, and take advantage of advance bookings that offer discounts up to seventy percent. Railway fares start around 20 Euros a trip, on an average. Additionally, one can also rent a bike for 2.5 Euros a day, or 6 Euros a week.
- Extra costs and savings: There will be the weekly costs for phone bills, and other miscellaneous expenses, amounting to 30 or 40 Euros. Also, there will the entertainment-related costs of 30 or 40 Euros a week. To save money, an international student can have inexpensive meals (sandwich, street food, pizza) that cost 2-3 Euros. Some Italian restaurants have the American equivalent of the Happy Hour. One can take opportunity of that as well.
What financial support is available to INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS in Italy?
- Financial aid comes in many formats: Scholarships, Grants, Assistantships, and Work–Study Schemes. In Italy, there are 2 main ways that students can fund their studies–scholarships and financial aid. There are a few scholarships that students can apply for which can help towards living expenses and tuition fees.
- Scholarships in Italy: Italy offers some of the best academic scholarships in the world. Here is a list of the most attractive ones: Italian government scholarships for international students – This scholarship is for all degree levels. The duration of this scholarship can be three, six, or nine months. Some Italian universities like Bologna University, University of Padova, Politecnico di Milano and Bocconi University offer scholarships for international students. These scholarships are usually between 5000 and 12000 Euros a year.
Work Opportunities and Work environment
Currently, Italy has announced that there will be a temporary lift in the current work hour restrictions placed on international students in Italy. Working in Italy as an international student
- Working: Working part-time alongside your studies is a good way to understand the Italian job market and earn some money to balance your living expenses while studying. As an international (non-EU/EEA) student, one is permitted to work part-time during the study period and take up jobs in Italy, given that your visa/study permit allows for the same. In case your study visa says that you can work in Italy alongside your studies, you would be able to take up part-time employment for up to 20 hours per week. This 20 hours per week rule is there to ensure that international students do not over-work and can spend sufficient time in studying. The paid part-time work in Italy should not be the only source of funds to pay for your studies at part-time jobs are limited and fluctuate in remuneration. Instead, you should use this opportunity to work in Italy to gain some valuable work experience while studying abroad by sparing some hours per week for paid employment, commonly known as student jobs.
- It is notable that if you speak Italian or have some basic knowledge of the language, it will help you in securing a part-time job easier as compared to an international student who is unable to speak Italian. Therefore, it is a useful skill to know Italian in order to significantly improve your chances of securing part-time employment in Italy. Now let’s look at some of the popular part-time jobs for international students in Italy:
- Waiters/Bar Tenders
- Counter Assistants at Quick Service Restaurants
- Assistants at Trade Fairs/Education Fairs
- Call Centre Agents
- Jobs in the Media Sector
- Jobs in the IT sector
- University jobs such as library assistants
- Tour Guides
- As an alternative to non-native language speaker, students from non-Italian speaking backgrounds can look for Language teaching jobs, commonly known as au pair jobs. You can teach your mother tongue and/or English to the students who want to learn. For STEM students, English au pair jobs are very popular. Also, many Italian universities offer on-campus part-time jobs to students, ranging from assisting the professors, tutoring and help in recording video lectures. These jobs are usually well-paid, however, are limited and competitive among students aspiring to take up part-time employment. The idea for an international student is to acquire some part-time work experience while studying at an Italian university and earn some money to balance the living expenses alongside studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
An Italian student visa is valid for two years. If your study program lasts less than two years then the visa will be valid only for the duration of your study program. Similarly if it is for more than two years you get the extension.
Yes, you can. Your family can apply for a residence permit on the basis of family ties. Afterward, they can switch to a resident permit on the basis of work if they are employed.
Yes, you can. There are several options available for international students who want to stay in Italy after their study program is finished.
Work visa.If you find a job after you graduate then you can apply for a work visa and continue living in Italy with a permit on the basis of employment. Job-seekers visa. If you don’t have a job but you wish to stay and work in Italy, then you can apply for a visa that lets you stay for one year in Italy as you look for a job. Once you have a job you must apply for a regular work permit. Researcher visa. If you wish to work within a research project or at a research centre you can apply for a researcher visa. This visa allows you to work only in this field.
Work visa.If you find a job after you graduate then you can apply for a work visa and continue living in Italy with a permit on the basis of employment. Job-seekers visa. If you don’t have a job but you wish to stay and work in Italy, then you can apply for a visa that lets you stay for one year in Italy as you look for a job. Once you have a job you must apply for a regular work permit. Researcher visa. If you wish to work within a research project or at a research centre you can apply for a researcher visa. This visa allows you to work only in this field.
You can apply for an extension of your Italy student visa if: You have been delayed in your studies. Once your studies are finished the student visa is no longer valid. In order to get permanent residency, you must be a regular resident of Italy for about 5 years. A student visa is valid only for two. If you want to apply for a permanent residency then you must have a job, internship, research project, etc., ready for you after you graduate so that you can switch from a student visa to a work visa. With a work visa, you can apply for a permanent residence permit after you spend 5 years in Italy.
If you complete a higher education program in Italy, you can be granted a residence permit of six months to look for work. The job-seeking period allows you to find a job in Italy after your studies. If, during this period, you are offered a job, you must apply for a new residence and work permit.
After completing the studies, the student can stay in Italy by applying for a residence permit based on work. The job can be from any other field too. But if the student is not able to get a job after completing his studies, he can apply for an extension of his residence permit to look for work in Italy. The student will be eligible for applying for a Permanent Residency in Italy after completing a minimum of 4 years of continuous work in Italy.
All the students must complete at least twelve years of study (Higher Secondary Certificate). Students can apply for undergraduate, post-graduate as well as PhD programs in the universities of Italy. Maximum of 7 years gap is acceptable.
The embassy may reject your visa application if there are any missing documents or your application is not filled out in the correct way. If your visa application is rejected, you can always write an appeal letter. You can appeal the visa rejection if you are confident that the officials at the embassy made a mistake during the process of approval by providing solid arguments to support your claims. Your appeal letter should contain your personal information such as first/last name, passport number, address, date of birth, etc. Aside from your personal data, you have to include the following: The refusal date; The reason for the refusal; The reason why the refusal was not the right decision; Your signature. If the appeal letter gets rejected, you can re-apply for a new visa.