Skip to content A frequent question for study permit holders is whether they can extend their stay in Italy for work purposes, whether self-employed or employed.
Until 2023, the so-called conversion of residence permits from study to work was possible only within the quotas defined by the Flows Decree. With the entry into force of Decree-Law No. 20/2023 (converted into Law No. 50/2023), also known as the Cutro Decree, these applications have left the scope of flows. This exemption from the flow quotas is also confirmed by the Decree of the President of the Council of Ministers (DPCM) of 2 October 2025, governing the 2026–2028 period. Therefore, it is possible to submit applications for conversion at any time of the year, with no limit on the number.
For more information, read our article on the types of residence permits in Italy.
Can a student work more than 20 hours a week in Italy?
The holder of a student residence permit may work for a maximum of 20 hours per week, within a limit of 1040 working hours per year.
Conversion is for those who intend to remain in Italy upon completion of their studies.
Can conversion be started before finishing the course of study?
The application for conversion from study to work permit can be sent before the completion of study only in certain cases, namely:
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The permit has been issued to attend a university course of study (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree programs), or
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The foreigner was already in Italy when he turned 18.
For all other cases (training courses, training internships, etc.), it is possible to submit the conversion request only upon completion.
What kinds of work activities can be carried out with conversion?
A study residence permit can be converted into either a work permit or a self-employment permit.
How can I get work permit in Italy after studying?
It is possible to convert a residence permit for study through an application addressed telematically to the Prefecture competent for the place of work.
Subordinate work
To apply for conversion to a work permit, it is necessary to have a job proposal from an Italian company. Such proposal must state the terms of the employment contract, including the CCNL that will be applied, and the working hours per week, which must be more than 20.
Self-employment
In this case, it is necessary to submit documentation about the work activity that is going to be carried out and the financial resources available to exercise it, i.e., income above the minimum level for exemption from healthcare co-payments (currently EUR 8,263.31 per the official parameter; check the updated value). Those who will carry out an activity as entrepreneurs, traders or artisans will need to enclose registration with the chamber of commerce.
What electronic form should be used to apply for conversion?
There are four different telematic forms for applying for a study-to-work permit conversion. These vary according to the type of activity and the applicants’ residence when they turned eighteen:
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VA Form: conversion from a study, internship or vocational training residence permit to a residence permit for employment;
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Z Form: conversion from a study, internship or vocational training residence permit to a residence permit for self-employment;
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V2 Form: conversion to a residence permit for employment for foreigners who have reached the age of majority in Italy or have graduated in Italy;
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Z2 Form: conversion to a residence permit for self-employment for foreigners who have reached the age of majority in Italy or have graduated in Italy.
Applications are submitted through the Ministry of the Interior’s ALI Portal.
Is it possible to apply for conversion with an expired residence permit?
Generally, conversion is only possible if the residence permit being used is valid. However, the Council of State has commented on this, saying that it is possible to apply for conversion with an expired permit if a valid work contract, signed before the expiration of the study permit, is attached.