Home to several of the world’s oldest and best universities, academic prestige runs through Italy’s veins. Take SDA Bocconi in Milan, which ranks in the top 10 global MBA programs, according to the Financial Times and is a leading university for everything from finance to luxury business. Or Bologna University, which has been teaching for nearly 1000 years.
So, what do you need in order to start studying in Italy?
Well, international students from outside Europe must navigate Italy’s student visa application process. Here, we break down what you need to know to craft your application—from the required documents to the different steps you must take and the cost of your application.
Summary of the Italy student visa process
To study in Italy, you’ll need to complete Italy’s student visa application process, requiring you to present a passport plus proof of enrolment, accommodation, and financial means. Your visa application will cost between €40-€50, with some additional fees; and you can expect it to take between two and eight weeks. The application process includes an in-person appointment at a local embassy or consulate.
The Italy student visa: Requirements and how to apply
What documents are needed for a student visa in Italy?
To complete your student visa application for graduate study in Italy, you’re required to share certain documents.
A valid passport is essential for your application. You’ll need to submit this and wait for it to be returned on issuance or rejection of your visa. Alongside this, you need to submit two passport-style photos with your application.
You’ll need to share a letter of acceptance or proof of enrolment/pre-enrolment from your university of choice. You may also need to demonstrate proof of previous academic qualifications (bachelor’s degree certificates, for instance).
You’ll need to submit proof of accommodation for your stay in Italy. This might include a rental agreement from a private apartment or student housing, or at least 15-30 days of a hotel reservation. If you are staying in someone’s home (such as a family, friend, or host family) you’ll need a signed letter from this person.
On top of this, it’s likely you’ll need to demonstrate proof of financial means to cover your student fees and living costs—a minimum of €500 per month for the duration of your stay. You must also have sufficient health insurance for Italy, with an expected minimum coverage of €30,000 which should cover potential emergency treatment, hospitalization, or repatriation.
Find a regularly updated list of requirements here
What are the steps to apply for a student visa to Italy?
To receive your student visa application process, you must complete a number of steps.
All Italy student visa applications begin with an appointment at your home country’s Italian embassy or consulate. Should your home country not have one of these, you’ll likely need to visit a visa application center, or an embassy/consulate for another EU country.
Once you’ve booked this appointment, you can start preparing your required documents, as you’ll need to bring these to your scheduled appointment. This may also involve a visa interview. Here, you’ll pay the fee for your visa application.
After this, a decision will be made on the status of your visa application, after which your passport will be returned.
You’ll then need to apply for a residence permit (‘permesso di soggiorno’), which is required for anyone staying in Italy for more than 90 days.
How much does a student visa application for Italy cost?
Student application fees for Italy vary depending on how long you are studying for, and where you are applying from. Typically, student visas for less than 12 months of study cost €40, while visas for 12 to 24 months cost €50.
There are additional costs on top of this: administration fees, issuance fees, plus the cost of the residence permit, not to mention the proof of financial means and health insurance you must demonstrate as part of your application (see above).
What is the visa processing time for students heading to Italy in 2025?
The processing time for international student visas for Italy varies, but this typically takes between two to eight weeks. Given that you can start your application up to three months before your start date, it’s worth starting early and leaving yourself plenty of time.
Can international students apply for an Italian student visa online?
In short, no. While some of the Italy student visa application process may take place online, you must make an in-person appointment at an Italian embassy, consulate, or designated institution in order to present your required documentation and complete your interview.
Kickstart your business education journey in Italy
Few will need persuading of the merits of studying in Italy. Imagine top academic institutions, combined with the country’s rich culture, history, natural landscape, and of course, world famous cuisine.
With our checklist of everything you need for your student visa application, you’ll be one step closer to landing yourself a spot to study in Italy. That means it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the Italian visa requirements for international students.
Remember: primarily these include required documentation such as your passport, accompanying photos, and letter of acceptance; proof of financial means to cover the cost of studying; proof of accommodation; and health insurance. You should also be aware of the costs, and the potential for your application to take anywhere from two to eight weeks to be processed.
Check out the latest Italy student visa news:
⇨ New Visa Rules In Italy Could Deter International Students (The PIE News)
⇨ Italy Introduces New Visa Rules For International Students Starting In 2025 (The Economic Times)
