Students VISA in Italy

Nationals and EU citizens are eligible to participate in internships in Italy. Italian nationals have the advantage of not requiring a work permit or visa to undertake internships within the country. EU citizens can also participate in internships in Italy without the need for a work permit, thanks to the freedom of movement provided by EU regulations.

The requirements for obtaining an internship in Italy can vary depending on the specific program or organization offering the opportunity. However, some general requirements may include:

1. Enrolled in a university or vocational school in your home country
2. Valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Italy
3. Proficiency in Italian or English, depending on the requirements of the internship
4. A visa, if applicable, for non-EU citizens

It is important to check the specific requirements of each internship program or organization to ensure eligibility.

In Italy, the payment of interns can vary depending on several factors, including the type of internship, the duration, and the company’s policies. While some internships in Italy may be unpaid, others do offer compensation to interns.

When internships are paid, they are generally subject to the minimum wage regulations set by the Italian law. In September 2021, the minimum wage for interns in Italy was set at €600 per month for full-time internships. However, it’s important to note that the specific amount and regulations regarding intern wages may have changed since then.

It depends on your nationality and the duration of your internship. If you are a Non-EU citizen you will need to apply for a visa. The specific visa requirements depend on factors such as your nationality and the duration of the internship. For programs lasting fewer than 90 days, a Schengen visa may be required. Longer internships typically require a long-stay visa. Italy offers internship-specific visas for students and non-students. It is important to consult the Italian embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date visa application guidelines.

The process for obtaining an internship in Italy as a non-EU national involves several key steps. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Secure an Internship Placement: Start by searching for internship opportunities in Italy that align with your field of study or career goals. It’s important to secure an internship offer before proceeding with the visa application process.

2. Check Visa Requirements: Once you have secured an internship position, you will need to apply for an appropriate visa to enter Italy. Depending on the duration and nature of your internship, you may apply for a short-term visa or a long-term study visa. Consult the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country for detailed information on the visa application process and requirements.

3. Work Permit (if applicable): Determine if a work permit is required for your internship based on factors such as the duration and compensation of the internship. If a work permit is necessary, you will need to apply for it separately. Consult with the Italian embassy or consulate or seek advice from immigration professionals to understand the specific work permit requirements and application process.
   
   

4. Gather Required Documents: Prepare all necessary documents for your visa and work permit applications, such as a valid passport, proof of internship acceptance, proof of financial means, health insurance, and any additional supporting documents as required.

5. Application Submission and Processing: Submit your visa and work permit applications to the appropriate authorities. Allow sufficient time for processing, as it can take several weeks or even months to receive a response.

6. Travel and Internship: Once your visa and work permit (if applicable) are approved, make travel arrangements to Italy. Arrive before the start of your internship. Upon arrival in Italy, you will need to complete the necessary registration procedures as mandated by the local authorities. This may include obtaining a residence permit or registering your presence with the local police station, depending on the duration of your stay.

It’s important to note that the specific process and requirements may vary depending on the individual circumstances, the internship program, and any recent changes to Italian immigration regulations. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult the official website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and contact the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the internship visa application process.

Keep in mind:

• Plane, train, or bus: the ticket must be printed directly from the company and needs to show all the details, such as the name, price, and dates;
• Car: you need to bring your car registration document, car insurance, and your driving license. (always the original document with a photocopy);
• In case you don’t travel directly to Italy, and you do other scales, it is required all the ticket reservations;
• Accommodation Proof:

1. hotel reservation;
2. Rental contract;
3. Letter of invitation, in case, you stay at a friend’s or family house. Find an template here. 

• Health insurance document:

1. For the Schengen visa, need to cover all the stay;
2. For the national visa, it needs to cover at least the first two weeks in Italy, once you arrive. 

Note: Your health insurance needs to have a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros for the emergency hospital and so on. In the case, your company does not provide this insurance, you need to make a request for international insurance. 

• A proof of your financial situation that shows you can sustain yourself during your stay in Italy. (bank account statement or your parent’s bank account statement for example);

Specific requirements: Citizens from Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Palestine, and people with a travel document ( three letters code as XXA) need always to have the information of their parent’s full names proved by the birth certificate or the Consular declaration.

Non-EU nationals can work during their internship visa in Italy, subject to certain regulations. The internship visa allows limited work authorization, directly related to the internship and within specified hours. Compliance with Italian labor laws is essential, including employer obligations and visa restrictions. It is advised to consult with the Italian embassy or immigration advisors for accurate information on work authorization rules for non-EU nationals undertaking internships in Italy.

Italy’s labor laws apply to all interns, regardless of their nationality. Interns are entitled to receive at least the minimum wage as defined by Italian regulations. Additionally, interns should work a maximum of 40 hours per week to ensure a healthy work-life balance.

A work permit is a document that grants non-EU nationals the legal right to work in Italy. Whether you need a work permit for your internship depends on the nature of the internship, such as whether it involves a formal employment relationship or compensation.

Here’s a simplified comparison between a visa and a work permit for internships in Italy:

Visa:

• A visa is a document that allows you to enter Italy for a specific purpose, such as studying or tourism.
• It grants you permission to stay in Italy for a certain period and specifies the reason for your visit.
• For internships, you may need a visa that permits you to enter Italy and participate in the internship.

Examples

1. Student Visa: If you are a Non-EU student planning to do an internship in Italy as part of your academic program, you may apply for a student visa. This visa allows you to study and participate in internship activities during your stay.

2. Schengen Visa: For short-term internships in Italy (typically up to 90 days), you may need to apply for a Schengen visa. This visa grants you entry into Italy and allows you to engage in internship-related activities within the specified time frame.

Work Permit:

• A work permit is a document that gives you the legal right to work in Italy, including internships.
• It is required when the internship involves a formal employment relationship or when you receive compensation for your work.
• The work permit specifies the duration and conditions of your work, such as the type of employment and any restrictions or limitations.

Examples

1. Work Permit for Paid Internship: If you secure a paid internship position in Italy, you would typically need to obtain a work permit for the duration of your internship. This permit allows you to work legally and receive compensation for your intern duties.

2. Work Permit for Research Internship: If you are undertaking a research internship in Italy, especially in a scientific or academic field, you may need a work permit that specifically covers research-related activities during your stay.

Whether you need both a visa and a work permit for your internship in Italy depends on various factors, such as your nationality, the duration of your internship, and the nature of the internship position. For non-EU nationals here’s a breakdown of different scenarios:

1. Short-term Unpaid Internship (less than 90 days): If your internship is unpaid and lasts for less than 90 days, you may only need a Schengen visa to enter Italy and participate in the internship.

2. Long-term Unpaid Internship (more than 90 days): For longer unpaid internships exceeding 90 days, you will likely need both a visa and a work permit. The visa allows you to enter Italy, while the work permit permits your participation in the internship.

3. Paid Internship: If your internship is paid, regardless of its duration, you will generally need both a visa and a work permit. The visa enables you to enter Italy, while the work permit ensures that you can work legally and receive compensation.

If you are a national of a European Union (EU) country, you generally do not need a work permit to do an internship in Italy. As an EU national, you have the right to work and participate in internships in Italy without the need for a separate work permit.

Non-EU nationals who wish to undertake an internship in Italy typically need to obtain a specific type of work permit. The specific work permit required may vary depending on the duration and nature of the internship. Some common work permit types for internships in Italy include:

1. “Permesso di Soggiorno per Lavoro Subordinato” (Permit to Stay for Subordinate Work): This work permit is generally applicable for internships that involve a formal employment relationship with an Italian employer. It allows non-EU nationals to work as interns within the guidelines and restrictions specified by the permit.

2. “Permesso di Soggiorno per Studio con Lavoro” (Permit to Stay for Study with Work): Non-EU students enrolled in an Italian educational institution may be eligible for this permit, which allows them to work part-time or undertake internships alongside their studies. The permit sets limits on the number of working hours permitted.

3. “Visto per Studio con Stage” (Study Visa with Internship): For internships integrated into a study program, non-EU students may apply for this visa, which combines study and internship components. It allows them to work as interns while pursuing their academic studies in Italy.

It is important to consult with the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country or seek guidance from immigration advisors to determine the specific work permit requirements and application procedures based on your circumstances and the nature of the internship you intend to pursue in Italy.

In Italy, interns are generally not entitled to the same benefits as permanent employees. The benefits and entitlements for interns may differ from those provided to regular employees. Here are some key points to understand:

1. Vacation Leave: Interns typically do not have the same rights to paid vacation leave as permanent employees. The duration and availability of vacation leave for interns may vary depending on the specific arrangements made between the intern and the host company or organization. It is important to review the internship agreement or contract to understand any provisions related to vacation leave.

2. Work Hours and Duration: Interns are subject to the maximum working hours prescribed by Italian labor laws, which is generally set at 40 hours per week. However, the specific work hours and duration of the internship may be agreed upon between the intern and the host company or organization.

3. Compensation and Benefits: Internships in Italy may be paid or unpaid, depending on various factors such as the nature of the internship, the industry, and the policies of the host company or organization. Paid internships may provide interns with a stipend or salary, while unpaid internships may offer valuable work experience without financial compensation. It is important to clarify the compensation and benefits arrangement with the host company or organization before accepting an internship.

4. Legal Protections: Despite not being entitled to the same benefits as permanent employees, interns in Italy are still protected by labor laws and regulations. These laws ensure a safe working environment, non-discrimination, and fair treatment during the internship period.

It’s important to note that the specific benefits and entitlements for interns may vary depending on the internship program, the host company or organization, and the relevant laws and regulations. It is advisable to review the internship agreement or contract and discuss any concerns or questions regarding benefits with the host company or organization before starting the internship in order to have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions.

Non-EU nationals seeking assistance with internships in Italy can access helpful resources:

1. Italian Embassies and Consulates: Contact them for information on requirements, visas, and work permits.

2. Universities and Educational Institutions: Consult their international student services or career services offices for guidance and support.

3. Internship Placement Programs: Consider joining programs or agencies that assist international students with finding internships in Italy.

4. Online Resources and Forums: Explore online platforms and communities for valuable insights and experiences from others who have gone through the internship process in Italy as non-EU nationals.

Remember to research, consult multiple sources, and seek guidance from reliable authorities to ensure you have accurate information and support throughout your internship journey in Italy as a non-EU national.