Skip to content The long-stay visa for Italy, also called national visa or type D visa, allows non-European Union citizens to enter Italy for a stay exceeding 90 days. It is the visa required for those who wish to move to Italy for study, family, elective residence, investment, remote work, research or other long-term purposes. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the national visa is valid for stays over 90 days in the territory of the Schengen State that issued it.
However, the visa is not the document that allows a person to stay permanently in Italy: it is used to enter the country. Once arrived in Italy with a national visa, the foreign citizen must request the relevant residence permit within 8 working days at the competent Police Headquarters.
In this updated guide, you will find a complete overview of the main long-stay visas for Italy, the general requirements, the application procedure, the documents to prepare and the steps following entry.
In brief: when a long-stay visa for Italy is required
| Situation | Necessary document |
|---|---|
| Stay up to 90 days for tourism, business or visit | Schengen type C visa, if required by nationality, or visa-free entry for exempt citizens |
| Stay over 90 days | National type D visa |
| Stay over 90 days after arrival in Italy | Residence permit linked to the visa |
| EU citizen staying in Italy for more than 3 months | Registration with the Registry Office of the Municipality of residence |
| Non-EU citizen who wants to work, study or live in Italy permanently | Correct D visa + residence permit |
EU citizens do not need to request a visa to enter Italy, but if they intend to stay for more than three months, they must request registration with the Registry Office at the Municipality of residence.
What is the type D visa for Italy?
The type D visa is an authorization issued by an Italian Embassy or Consulate abroad that allows a non-EU citizen to enter Italy for a stay exceeding 90 days.
Unlike the short-stay Schengen visa, the D visa is linked to a specific purpose of stay, for example:
- study;
- family reasons;
- elective residence;
- investment;
- subordinate or self-employment;
- research;
- internship;
- remote work as a digital nomad or remote worker.
The “Visa for Italy” portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs allows you to check, based on nationality, country of residence, duration and purpose of stay, whether it is necessary to request an entry visa and which type is applicable.
D visa and residence permit: what is the difference?
One of the most frequently asked questions concerns the difference between visa and residence permit.
| Document | When it is requested | Who issues it | What it is used for |
|---|---|---|---|
| National type D visa | Before arrival in Italy | Italian Embassy or Consulate abroad | Authorizes entry into Italy for a stay exceeding 90 days |
| Residence permit | After entry into Italy | Competent Police Headquarters | Authorizes legal stay in Italy for the expected duration |
The national visa therefore represents the first step. After entry, the foreigner must request the residence permit corresponding to the reason for the visa. The duration of the permit will be linked to the type of visa and must be renewed directly in Italy, if the conditions are met.
To explore the topic further, you can consult the dedicated guide to the Italian residence permit.
Schengen visa or long-stay visa: which one is needed?
The choice between Schengen visa and long-stay visa depends mainly on the duration of the stay and the purpose of the trip.
| Type of visa | Duration | When it is needed |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen type C visa | Up to 90 days every 180 days | Tourism, business, family visits, short courses or temporary stays |
| National type D visa | Over 90 days | Long study, elective residence, family, investment, work, digital nomads, research |
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs clearly distinguishes between uniform Schengen visa, valid for short stays up to 90 days every 180 days, and national visa, valid for stays exceeding 90 days. Holders of a D visa may also circulate in other Schengen countries for a period not exceeding 90 days per semester, provided that the visa is valid.
For short stays, you can also read the guide on the Schengen visa.
Who must request a long-stay visa for Italy?
Non-EU citizens who intend to stay in Italy for more than 90 days and who do not fall under a free movement regime or specific exemptions provided by law must request a national type D visa.
The application must be submitted before departure, at the Italian diplomatic or consular representation competent for the country in which the applicant legally resides. For national visas, delegation to other Schengen States is not provided: the visa must be issued by the representation of the State that constitutes the long-stay destination.
Types of long-stay visa for Italy
The visa to request depends on the reason for moving to Italy. Below are the main categories.
Visa for elective residence
The visa for elective residence is intended for foreign citizens who wish to live in Italy without carrying out work activity. It is particularly used by pensioners, people with annuities, private investors or persons with stable and sufficient passive income.
In general, the applicant must demonstrate:
- availability of passive and continuous income;
- availability of accommodation in Italy;
- health insurance;
- intention not to work in Italy.
Further information: visa for elective residence in Italy.
Visa for digital nomads and remote workers
The visa for digital nomads and remote workers is one of the main innovations for those who wish to live in Italy while continuing to work remotely for foreign employers or clients.
The interministerial decree of 29 February 2024, published in the Official Gazette on 4 April 2024, regulates the entry and stay of highly qualified non-EU workers who perform work remotely through technological tools. The related permit has a maximum duration of one year, is renewable and also allows family reunification.
Further information: digital nomad visa in Italy.
Related service: obtaining the digital nomad visa in Italy.
Study visa
The study visa allows non-EU citizens to enter Italy to attend university courses, training programs, single courses, internships or other recognized programs.
As a rule, the applicant must demonstrate:
- enrollment or pre-enrollment in the course;
- sufficient financial means;
- availability of accommodation;
- health coverage;
- required school or academic documentation.
Further information: visa for students in Italy.
Visa for family reasons
The visa for family reasons allows certain family members to join or accompany a foreign citizen already legally staying in Italy.
Depending on the case, it may concern:
- spouse;
- minor children;
- adult dependent children with particular conditions;
- dependent parents;
- family members of EU or Italian citizens, according to specific rules.
Further information: visa for family reunification.
Investor visa or Golden Visa
The investor visa, often also called the Italian Golden Visa, is designed for non-EU citizens who intend to make a qualified investment in Italy.
It may concern investments in:
- Italian government bonds;
- Italian companies;
- innovative startups;
- philanthropic donations in sectors of public interest.
Further information: Italian Golden Visa.
Startup visa
The startup visa is designed for non-EU citizens who intend to start an innovative startup in Italy or participate in an innovative entrepreneurial project.
This category requires an evaluation of the project, economic requirements and entrepreneurial documentation.
Further information: startup visa in Italy.
Visa for internship, research or other reasons
There are also other categories of national visas for long stays, including:
- internship visa;
- scientific research visa;
- visa for religious reasons;
- visa for medical treatment;
- visa for subordinate or self-employment;
- re-entry visa.
Each category has specific requirements and dedicated documentation. Before booking the consular appointment, it is therefore important to correctly identify the type of visa to request.
Further information: internship visa in Italy.
Comparative table of the main long-stay visas
| Type of visa | Ideal for | Work allowed? | Indicative initial duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elective residence | Pensioners, holders of annuities, people with passive income | No | Generally 1 year |
| Digital nomads / remote workers | Highly qualified workers who work remotely for foreign entities | Yes, according to the visa rules | Up to 1 year, renewable |
| Study | University students, courses, training | Possible part-time work within the permitted limits | Linked to the duration of the course |
| Family reasons | Family members of legally staying foreigners | Yes, with permit for family reasons | Linked to the permit of the main family member |
| Investors / Golden Visa | Non-EU investors | It is not an ordinary work visa | 2 years, renewable according to conditions |
| Startup | Innovative entrepreneurs | Yes, within the approved project | According to category and related permit |
| Internship | Non-EU interns | Limited to the authorized project | Linked to the internship |
General requirements to request a long-stay visa
The requirements change according to the type of visa, the country of residence and the competent consular representation. However, in most cases, the applicant must demonstrate:
- clear and documented purpose of stay;
- passport or valid travel document;
- sufficient financial means;
- availability of accommodation in Italy;
- health insurance, when required;
- specific documentation for the visa category;
- absence of reasons preventing entry.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs specifies that, with the application form, the foreigner must attach a valid travel document and the required supporting documentation; they must also certify the purpose of the trip, means of transport and return, means of support and accommodation conditions.
Documents required for the Italian D visa
The document checklist varies depending on the visa. In general, the following may be required:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| National visa application form | Completed and signed by the applicant |
| Valid passport | Must have sufficient remaining validity and available pages |
| Passport photo | Format compliant with consular standards |
| Proof of the purpose of stay | Course enrollment, nulla osta, contract, family documents, investment, etc. |
| Proof of financial means | Bank statements, pension, income, contract, payslips, asset documents |
| Proof of accommodation in Italy | Lease agreement, deed of ownership, hospitality declaration or other accepted documentation |
| Health insurance | Required for several visa categories |
| Civil status certificates | Marriage, birth, family, if relevant |
| Translations and legalizations/apostilles | Often necessary for foreign documents |
| Receipt of consular fee payment | Amount and methods depend on the consular office |
The diplomatic-consular representation may request additional documents based on the specific case. Submission of the documentation does not automatically result in the issuance of the visa.
How to request the long-stay visa for Italy
Step 1 — Identify the correct visa
The first step is to establish which visa corresponds to the real reason for the stay. An error in the category can cause delays, requests for additional documents or refusal.
Example: those who want to live in Italy with passive income should not request a study visa; those who work remotely for a foreign employer may instead need to evaluate the visa for digital nomads or remote workers.
Step 2 — Verify the competent consular representation
The application must be submitted to the Italian representation competent for the place where the applicant legally resides. For national visas, competence lies with the representation of the Schengen State that constitutes the long-stay destination.
Step 3 — Prepare documents and translations
Before the appointment, it is necessary to collect all documents required by the consular office. Foreign documents may need to be:
- translated into Italian;
- legalized;
- apostilled;
- submitted in original and copy.
This phase is often the most delicate, especially for family visas, elective residence, study and digital nomads.
Step 4 — Book and attend the appointment
The applicant must submit the visa application in writing, on a dedicated form, with passport-size photo. As a rule, they must appear personally at the diplomatic-consular representation also for the interview and for the collection of fingerprints. (esteri.it)
Step 5 — Wait for the outcome of the application
Times vary depending on the type of visa and the checks required. For national visas, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicates a general deadline of 90 days from the request, with specific deadlines of 30 days for subordinate work within quotas and family reunification, and 120 days for self-employment.
Step 6 — Check the visa before departure
When collecting the passport, it is important to check:
- name and surname;
- date and place of birth;
- visa number;
- validity;
- type of visa;
- number of entries;
- any annotations.
Material errors on the visa may create problems at the border or in the subsequent request for the residence permit.
Step 7 — Enter Italy and request the residence permit
After arrival in Italy with a national visa, the non-EU citizen must request the residence permit within 8 working days at the competent Police Headquarters or through the postal kit, depending on the permit category.
For the complete procedure, consult the guide on the Italian residence permit.
How long does it take to obtain a long-stay visa?
The times depend on several factors:
| Phase | Indicative time |
|---|---|
| Document collection | 2–8 weeks, variable depending on the case |
| Appointment booking | Variable depending on the consular office |
| Consular assessment | Up to 90 days for most national visas |
| Subordinate work within quotas / family reunification | Indicative deadline of 30 days |
| Self-employment | Indicative deadline of 120 days |
| Residence permit after arrival | Variable depending on the competent Police Headquarters |
To avoid delays, it is advisable to start preparation well in advance, especially when foreign certificates, apostilles, translations or Italian nulla osta are necessary.
Common mistakes to avoid
Requesting the wrong visa
Many delays result from the incorrect choice of category. For example, the visa for elective residence is not suitable for those who intend to work in Italy.
Presenting income not consistent with the visa
For some categories, such as elective residence or digital nomads, income and its nature are central elements. Financial documents must be clear, consistent and traceable.
Not having documented accommodation
Many applications require proof of accommodation in Italy. Depending on the visa, a registered contract, housing availability or other documentation accepted by the Consulate may be necessary.
Not requesting the residence permit after entry
The visa does not replace the residence permit. Those who enter Italy with a national visa must complete the post-arrival procedure within the required deadlines.
Booking the trip before having the visa
Possession of the documents does not guarantee issuance of the visa. It is preferable to avoid non-refundable commitments before the official outcome.
Does the visa always guarantee entry into Italy?
No. Even if the visa is issued, possession of the visa does not absolutely guarantee entry. The border authority may carry out checks and, in the absence of requirements or for reasons of security and public order, may deny entry.
For this reason, it is advisable to carry with you a copy of the main documents submitted during the application phase, such as proof of accommodation, financial means, purpose of stay and health insurance.
Frequently asked questions on the long-stay visa for Italy
How long does a long-stay visa for Italy last?
The national type D visa is issued for stays exceeding 90 days. The specific duration depends on the visa category and the approved documentation. After entry, the applicant must obtain the relevant residence permit.
Can I stay in Italy for more than 90 days without a visa?
Non-EU citizens who do not fall under specific exemptions must request a national type D visa before entry if they intend to stay in Italy for more than 90 days.
Does the type D visa allow travel to other Schengen countries?
Yes, the holder of a valid D visa may circulate in other Schengen countries for a period not exceeding 90 days per semester, provided that the visa is valid.
Can I request a D visa while I am already in Italy?
In general, no. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs specifies that no visa can be issued to a foreigner who is already in the territory.
After the visa, do I also have to request the residence permit?
Yes. The visa allows entry into Italy, while the residence permit allows legal stay in the country. The request must be submitted within 8 working days from entry.
Which visa is needed to live in Italy without working?
In many cases, the visa for elective residence is evaluated, intended for those who have passive income and sufficient financial means to live in Italy without carrying out work activity.
Which visa is needed to work remotely from Italy?
Highly qualified non-EU citizens who work remotely for foreign entities may evaluate the visa for digital nomads or remote workers, introduced with the 2024 implementing rules.
Which visa is needed to study in Italy for more than 90 days?
A national study visa is required, to be requested before departure at the competent Italian Consulate. After arrival in Italy, the student must request the residence permit for study.
How long before should I start the application?
It is advisable to start several months before the planned entry date, especially if foreign documents, translations, apostilles, nulla osta or consular appointments with waiting lists are needed.
How Arletti Partners supports you
Studio A&P assists foreign citizens, families, students, remote workers, investors and companies in the complete management of visa and residence permit procedures in Italy.
The support may include:
- preliminary assessment of the most suitable visa;
- analysis of personal, family, tax and document requirements;
- preparation of the document checklist;
- verification of foreign documents, translations and legalizations;
- assistance with the application at the Consulate or Embassy;
- post-arrival support for residence permit, residence, tax code and related obligations.