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Visa Guide — Italy

Student Visa Guide — Italy

Welcome to your comprehensive guide on obtaining a student visa for Italy! This guide will help you navigate the process whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student.

Overview

Undergraduate Students

Non-EU undergraduate students must obtain a National Visa (Type D) before studying full-time in Italy. You will apply at the Italian consulate in your country of residence and then apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days of your arrival. The visa typically covers one academic year and can be renewed annually for the duration of your studies.

Graduate Students

Non-EU graduate students also need to secure a National Visa (Type D) before entering Italy for full-time master’s or PhD studies. You will apply at the Italian consulate with your admission/pre-enrollment documents, proof of finances, accommodation, and health insurance. After arriving in Italy, you must apply for the Permesso di Soggiorno within 8 days. Work is permitted for up to 20 hours per week, and after graduation, you may convert your status to job-search or work if eligible.

Steps — Undergraduate

Application Process

  1. Pre-enroll and obtain admission letter: Apply through the Universitaly portal or directly to your university for pre-enrollment and obtain the official acceptance letter. Universitaly

  2. Prepare required documents: Collect the following:

    • Passport
    • Application form
    • Admission letter
    • Proof of finances
    • Housing documentation
    • Health insurance
    • Recent photographs
    • Flight itinerary Visa for Italy

  3. Book appointment at Italian consulate: Schedule your visa appointment using the consulate’s online booking system. Bring originals and copies of all documents.

  4. Attend visa interview and submit biometrics: Submit your application in person, pay the visa fee, and provide fingerprints if requested.

  5. Receive your Type D visa: Processing takes 2–6 weeks depending on the consulate. Collect your passport with the visa sticker once approved.

  6. Travel to Italy and apply for Permesso di Soggiorno: Within 8 days of arrival, apply for a residence permit at the post office using the 'kit giallo' and book fingerprints at the local Questura. Polizia di Stato

Steps — Graduate

Application Process

  1. Pre-enroll / obtain admission: Use Universitaly or your university’s process to secure pre-enrollment/admission and receive official documentation. Universitaly

  2. Prepare visa documents: Gather the following:

    • Passport
    • Application form
    • Admission/pre-enrollment documentation
    • Proof of funds
    • Accommodation details
    • Health insurance
    • Recent photographs
    • Flight plan Visa for Italy

  3. Book consulate appointment: Schedule with your local Italian consulate and bring originals/copies as per their checklist.

  4. Attend interview & biometrics: Submit your application, pay the visa fee, and provide fingerprints if requested.

  5. Receive Type D visa: Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks depending on the post and season.

  6. Travel & apply for Permesso di Soggiorno: Within 8 days of arrival, file the residence-permit kit at the post office and attend the Questura appointment for fingerprints. Polizia di Stato

Required Documents — Undergraduate

  • Visa application form: Completed and signed National Visa (Type D) form from the consulate website.

  • Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay.

  • Recent photographs: Two passport-size photos meeting Schengen specifications.

  • University admission letter: Issued by an Italian university or AFAM institution. Universitaly

  • Proof of financial means: Bank statement or sponsor letter showing the minimum annual amount per Italian Ministry guidelines.

  • Proof of accommodation: Lease, dorm confirmation, or host declaration with ID copy.

  • Health insurance: Private insurance valid in the Schengen area or proof of payment for registration with SSN.

  • Flight booking: Round-trip or one-way itinerary showing planned entry into Italy.

  • Visa fee payment: Non-refundable visa fee (approx. €50, varies by country).

Required Documents — Graduate

  • Visa application form: Completed National Visa (Type D) form provided by the consulate.

  • Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond the visa period; include photocopies of relevant pages.

  • Admission / Pre-enrollment letter: From an Italian university (master’s/PhD) or AFAM. Universitaly

  • Proof of financial means: Recent bank statements or scholarship/fellowship letters meeting the annual minimum.

  • Proof of accommodation: Dorm/housing confirmation, lease, or host declaration with ID.

  • Health insurance: Private policy or SSN enrollment/receipt valid for the first year.

  • Academic transcripts & degree: Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts; translations/legalizations if required.

  • Photographs: Two recent passport-size photos (Schengen specs).

  • Visa fee: Non-refundable fee (approx. €50, varies by post).