Italy offers plenty for students seeking to learn the language while soaking up culture and history. However, before embarking on this journey, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements. This guide will cover the kinds of visas with hints on how to get one to study Italian in Italy.

Who Needs a Visa to Study in Italy?

The need for a visa depends on the student's nationality:

• European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) citizens do not need a visa to enter or stay in Italy, regardless of the course duration.
• Non-EU/EEA citizens must check whether they require a visa based on the length of their stay.

Types of Study Visas for Learning Italian

Type C: Short-Term Study Visa - Up to 90 Days

This visa is ideal for students intending to take an Italian language course for not more than 3 months. This visa is similar to a tourist visa, and can neither be extended nor transformed to any long-term visas while in Italy.

Main Requirements:

• Enrollment in a recognized Italian language school
• Health insurance covering the stay in Italy
• Proof of sufficient financial resources
• Return flight reservation

Type D: Long-Term Study Visa – More Than 90 Days

This visa is ideal for students intending to take an Italian language course for more than 3 months. This visa allows you to apply for a residence permit once you arrive in Italy.

Main Requirements:

• Enrollment in an accredited language school
• Proof of financial means to support your stay
• Valid health insurance
• Confirmed accommodation for the duration of the course
• A clear and documented reason for studying Italian

After arriving in Italy, students holding a Type D visa must apply for a residence permit ("Permesso di Soggiorno") at the local police headquarters (Questura) within 8 days of entering the country.

How to Apply for a Study Visa for Italy

Application for the visa should be submitted to the Italian Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin. Since the procedure can take several weeks, at least 2–3 months in advance application is advisable.

Steps for application:

• Complete the application form provided by the Consulate.
• Prepare the documents required, which include:

• Valid passport
• Acceptance letter from a recognized Italian language school
• Sufficient financial means
• Health insurance coverage
• Details of accommodation
• Return flight reservation (for short-term visas)

• Pay visa application fee, if applicable.

Can I Work in Italy with a Study Visa?

• Students with a Type C (short-term) visa cannot work in Italy.
• Students with a Type D (long-term) visa can work up to 20 hours per week, provided they obtain a legal employment contract and have a valid residence permit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ Can I extend my visa while in Italy?

• The Type C (short-term) visa cannot be extended.
• The Type D (long-term) visa may be renewed in specific cases, such as enrollment in a new course.

❓ What if my visa application is rejected?

• The Consulate will provide a written explanation. You may appeal the decision or correct any problems and reapply.

❓ Can Scuola Leonardo da Vinci assists me with the visa application?

• Yes! Our schools provide acceptance letters and can guide students through the application process.

!!! Need help enrolling or preparing visa documents? Contact us! We’ll be happy to support you in planning your Italian language learning experience in Italy.