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Italy

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At a glance

Living index rating
Moderate
Monthly rent
€350 – €600 shared (Milan and Rome €500 – €800)
Monthly food
€200 – €300
Other monthly expenses
€150 – €300 (transport, phone, utilities, personal)
Visa processing time
Up to 90 days by law; often 3 – 8 weeks
Family allowed for students
Yes

Visa requirements

  • National (D) study visa, after pre-enrolment on the Universitaly portal
  • Acceptance from an Italian university
  • Proof of funds: at least €10,179.85 a year for 2026 – 2027 and 2027 – 2028 (up from about €6,000), from traceable sources
  • Proof of accommodation and health insurance
  • Apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days of arriving
  • Work up to 20 hours a week (1,040 hours a year)

Work permit after studies

  • 'Attesa occupazione' residence permit: up to 12 months to look for work after a bachelor's, master's or PhD from an Italian university
  • You can also convert your study permit into a work permit outside the annual quota once you have a job offer, or apply for an EU Blue Card

Citizenship route

  • EU long-term residence permit after 5 years of legal residence
  • Citizenship by naturalisation after 10 years of continuous legal residence
  • Italian language at B1 level and proof of income required

Family details

  • If your study permit is valid for at least 1 year, you can apply for family reunification for your spouse and minor children
  • You must show enough income for them, suitable housing and health insurance
  • Family members on a family permit can work

Universities in Italy

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (252), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.