Student Visa Requirements
This information is not legal advice. Requirements and procedures change; always verify current details on official government websites, including the Italian consulate with jurisdiction over your place of residence, since documentation requirements can vary by consulate.
The Student Visa (National Type D) is required for study programs in Italy longer than 90 days; shorter programs generally fall under a short-term Schengen visa instead.
Requirements vary by the type of program: applicants enrolling in an Italian university degree program or single university courses must first complete pre-enrollment through the Universitaly portal;
students on a study-abroad program through their home university need an enrollment letter from their home institution plus an acceptance letter from the Italian host program;
Students attending a standalone language or academic course must show they are enrolling in an intermediate-level or higher course (B1 level needed) and provide proof the course is paid in full; and applicants doing an internship (tirocinio) need a formal training project approved by the relevant Italian regional or provincial authority, with internship visas subject to available yearly quotas.
Regardless of program type, applicants generally need proof of acceptance from an accredited Italian institution, proof of sufficient financial means (or an affidavit of support from a parent), health insurance covering at least $50,000 in medical costs, proof of accommodation, and a round-trip flight reservation. Applicants under 18 participating in approved student exchange programs follow a separate process.