Directory A–Z - Italy - page 1880

» Residents of 28 non-EU countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand and
the USA, do not require visas for tourist visits of up to 90 days (this list varies for those wanting to travel to
the UK and Ireland).
» All non-EU and non-Schengen nationals entering Italy for more than 90 days or for any reason other than
tourism (such as study or work) may need a specific visa. See www.esteri.it/visti/home_eng.asp or contact
an Italian consulate for details.
» EU citizens do not require any permits to live or work in Italy but, after three months' residence, are sup-
posed to register at the municipal registry office where they live and offer proof of work or sufficient funds
to support themselves.
» Non-EU foreign citizens with five years' continuous legal residence may apply for permanent residence.
Permesso di Soggiorno
Non-EU citizens planning to stay at the same address for more than one week are supposed to report to the
police station to receive a permesso di soggiorno (a permit to remain in the country). Tourists staying in ho-
tels are not required to do this.
A permesso di soggiorno only really becomes a necessity if you plan to study, work (legally) or live in
Italy. Obtaining one is never a pleasant experience; it involves long queues and the frustration of arriving at
the counter only to find you don't have the necessary documents.
The exact requirements, such as specific documents, are always subject to change. Updated requirements
can be found online at www.poliziadistato.it (click on 'Foreign nationals').
EU citizens do not require a permesso di soggiorno.
Study Visas
Non-EU citizens who want to study at a university or language school in Italy must have a study visa. These
can be obtained from your nearest Italian embassy or consulate. You will normally require confirmation of
your enrolment, proof of payment of fees and adequate funds to support yourself. The visa covers only the
period of the enrolment. This type of visa is renewable within Italy but, again, only with confirmation of on-
going enrolment and proof that you are able to support yourself (bank statements are preferred).
Volunteering
Concordia International Volunteer Projects ( 01273 422218; www.concordiavolunteers.org.uk ; 19
North St, Portslade, UK) Short-term community-based projects covering the environment, archaeology and
the arts. You might find yourself working as a volunteer on a restoration project or in a nature reserve.
European Youth Portal (europa.eu/youth) Has various links suggesting volunteering options across
Europe. Navigate to the Volunteering/exchanges page and then narrow down the search to Italy.