The application, step by step.

STUDENT VISA · NON-EU APPLICANTS

Non-EU study visa - requirements, application, timelines.

If you are a non-EU citizen and plan to study with us for more than 90 days, you need a National Study Visa (Type D Visa). This page walks you through the four things you need to know: who needs the visa, how to apply, what the typical timelines are, and how to find the Italian consulate responsible for your country.

01 Requirements by program type

Requirements by program type

Non-EU / non-EEA students. Many nationalities, including those from countries with Schengen visa-waiver agreements, may enter Italy without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. For longer Italian courses (16 weeks or more) a National Study Visa (Type D Visa) is required, to be obtained before departure. Check with the Italian consulate responsible for your specific passport.

Why our long-term courses are study-visa eligible: Italian law does not formally accredit language schools as standalone bodies. Accademia di Italiano operates as part of Unicollege SSML, an Istituto ad Ordinamento Universitario accredited by the Ministry of University and Research (MUR). This institutional context allows us to issue consular-grade documentation for our long-term courses (16+ weeks, 80+ hours a month): this is exactly what your Italian consulate checks.

Short courses (up to 90 days). Citizens of countries with Schengen visa-waiver agreements do not need a visa for these programs. Normal passport entry to Italy applies. Long-term courses (16+ weeks). A National Study Visa (National Visa - Type D) is required. You must apply at the Italian consulate in your country of residence before departure.

02 How to apply for a National Study Visa

How to apply for a National Study Visa

For long-term course participants. The procedure takes place at the Italian consulate in your country of residence.

1. Receive your Accademia acceptance letter. Once admitted, we issue an official acceptance letter confirming your enrolment, program dates and institution details. It is a required document for the visa application. 2. Find the right Italian consulate. The application must be submitted to the Italian Consulate or Embassy responsible for your country and region of residence. Use the official consulate finder below. 3. Book a consulate appointment. Most Italian consulates require an appointment. Book as early as possible: in major cities slots can fill up weeks in advance, especially in spring and summer. 4. Prepare your documents. Prepare all required documents before your appointment. Each consulate may have slightly different requirements: always check the specific consulate's website for the up-to-date list. 5. Attend your appointment. Bring original documents and copies. Pay the visa fee (usually €50). Processing takes on average 15 to 30 working days. 6. Collect your visa and travel to Italy. Your National Study Visa will be affixed to a passport page. Double-check the dates and your name before leaving the consulate.

04 Recommended timeline - fall semester

Recommended timeline - fall semester

February - March. Apply for enrolment at Accademia di Italiano and receive your acceptance letter. March - April. Book your consulate appointment; start gathering documents. May - June. Attend your consulate appointment; submit your visa application. Receive your National Study Visa; confirm accommodation in Italy. Late August / early September. Arrival in Italy · Accademia orientation week · start of the Residence Permit procedure.

05 Find your Italian consulate

Find your Italian consulate

Visa applications must be submitted in person at the Italian diplomatic mission (Embassy or Consulate General) responsible for your area of residence.