The decision to select Italy as your higher education destination will prove to be one of the finest decisions of your life. The Italian lifestyle and education are what many people seek in their lives, and you are the lucky one to get everything. In order to go to Italy for study purposes, you need to obtain an Italian study visa. Throughout this article, the requirements and process of obtaining a study visa are discussed. 

When and where to apply for an Italian Study Visa?

As per the experts, a student should apply for an Italian Study Visa at least three months in advance of their arrival in Italy. Students can apply for an Italian study visa at the embassy or consulate of Italy in your country. In India, the Italian Embassy is located in the capital, i.e. Delhi. 

• Study Visa processing time 
• The average study visa processing time is one to three weeks. Therefore, we suggest trying to schedule your visa interview at least six weeks in advance.

Documents required for Study Visa 

The following is the list of documents and paperwork that are required while applying for a study visa in Italy: 

1. A completed visa application form 

2. Two recent passport size color photographs 

3. Acceptance letter from an Italian University 

4. Proof of arranged accommodation in Italy

5. A valid travel document for at least 3 months after the visa

6. Payment receipt of the Visa application fee

7. Proof of health and medical insurance coverage during your stay.

8. Proof of adequate knowledge of English or Italian

9. Documents proving financial stability to support yourself with all the expenses in Italy, i.e. at least € 448,07 per month

10. Documents demonstrating your previous education:

11. Cover letter revealing your purpose and future goals associated with studying in Italy

12. Proof of having no criminal record 

The Italian Study Visa process 

The brief process of obtaining a study visa in Italy is as follows: 

Step 1-Obtain an acceptance letter from an Italian university 

The foremost step is to apply in the universities in Italy for your preferred courses and reserve your seat. After your admission is confirmed in that university, you will receive an acceptance letter. Procure that letter as it is the proof of your admission. 

Step 2 – Identify the ideal visa for you

Now that you have reserved a seat for yourself at an Italian university, you need to identify the suitable visa for your stay in Italy. There are two types of visas for students: 

1. Short term Visa (Type C) – It is suitable for those courses whose duration is less than 90 days. For example, – language courses or vocational courses.  

2. Long term Visa (Type D) – It is suitable for degree programs that last more than 90 days and have at least 20 hours of classes per week. 

Step 3 – Check the eligibility criteria 

Before applying for study visa, check if you meet all the criteria and are eligible to obtain a visa. For example, – you should not have any criminal records, have a valid passport, etc. 

Step 4 – Collect all the documents 

Prepare the list of aforementioned documents and even check every document twice or thrice to leave no ends. 

Step 5 – Fill up the application form and submit it

Since everything is ready now, fill out the application form attentively and submit it to the Italian Embassy in your country. 

Step 6 – Apply for Work Permit (optional) 

A student from the European Union has access to work in Italy even without a work permit. But if you are not from that European Union country, then you need to obtain a work permit in order to engage in any kind of work in Italy. 

Step 7 – Prepare for your Visa Interview 

Start preparing for your student visa interview. There are numerous online resources that help students in their preparation.