Visa Process

Non EU Citizens can come for tourist porpouses for a maximum of 90 days, if your studies are below 90 days there is no need to apply for a Student Visa.  If you intend to come to Italy to study for a longer term you  need a Student Visa and once in Italy apply for a Permit of  Stay for the same lenght of the Visa and you will need a Medical Insurance.

A. PASSPORT

An important document you will need before planning your trip abroad is a passport. Your passport must be valid for at least three full months after your return date.  It usually takes up to six weeks to get your passport, but during peak travel times it may take longer.  Make sure to include your departure date on your passport application.

U.S. students:  For further information about getting or renewing a U.S. passport, fees and obtaining passport application forms, please see the official website of the U.S. Government of State at:  http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

When you arrive in Italy it is important to have 3 copies of your passport and your Student Visa.

  • First copy needed to apply for the Permit of Stay in Italy
  • Second copy to carry with you at all times when abroad.  Keep your passport at a safe place in your apartment (in Italy) and carry a copy, not the original passport, with you at all times in case you need it for identification purposes, such as changing money, renting an apartment or car, etc.
  • Third to be left at home with your family.  If your passport is lost or stolen, it is easier to replace it if you have a copy.

B.     STUDENT VISA

European Union (EU) citizens do not need a visa.  All other non-EU citizens/students must obtain a student visa.  Please contact the Italian Consulate or Embassy of your jurisdiction to inquire about the necessary documents you must present when applying for a Study Visa.  It takes approximately two to four weeks to obtain it.  Make arrangements for the VISA well in advance of travel as waiting time and lines become difficult during peak travel periods.  The following documents are usually needed to apply for a student visa:

  • Valid passport
  • A letter of acceptance from an educational Institute, School, or University
  • A certified bank letter indicating your financial support;  for info on financial support requirements, please see website below.

For more information on getting your Visa, please see the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website: http://www.esteri.it/visti/index_eng.asp

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