Frequently asked questions
The most common questions from people who want to live in Italy or regularise their status.
Permits and residence
How long can I stay in Italy as a tourist?
Up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area, if your country is visa-exempt. To stay longer you need a long-stay visa and then a residence permit.
Can I apply for a residence permit if I entered as a tourist?
Generally not: most permits require a specific visa. There are exceptions, for example for family members of Italian or EU citizens.
What if my permit has expired?
Act quickly: depending on how much time has passed and why, you may request a late renewal or look for another route.
When can I apply for the permanent permit?
After 5 years of legal residence, with sufficient income, suitable housing and an A2 Italian test.
Citizenship
What changed for citizenship by descent in 2025?
Since 28 March 2025, people born abroad with another citizenship only qualify in limited cases, e.g. if a parent or grandparent holds or held only Italian citizenship, or if the application was filed by 27/03/2025.
How many years of residence do I need for citizenship?
10 years for most non-EU foreigners, 4 for EU citizens, 5 for refugees and stateless persons, and shorter periods in other cases provided by law.
What level of Italian is required?
B1 for citizenship by marriage or residence, certified by a recognised body.
Work and study
Can I work on a student permit?
Yes, up to 20 hours a week and 1,040 hours a year.
How do I get a work visa?
Usually through an offer from an Italian employer who applies for the nulla osta under the Decreto Flussi, or outside the quotas if you are highly qualified (EU Blue Card).
Is my university degree valid in Italy?
It can be, but it must be recognised: dichiarazione di valore, CIMEA statement, equivalence or professional recognition, depending on your goal.
About our service
How much is the consultation and what does it include?
It is a video call of about 45 minutes with the lawyer plus a written summary. The fee is credited if you hire us for the procedure.
Do you handle cases outside southern Italy?
Yes. The lawyers are based in southern Italy, but many procedures are done online and court cases can be handled nationwide.
Is my data protected?
Yes. We process your data under the GDPR and only to answer your request. See the privacy policy.
Tell us about your case
Fill in the form and a team member will reply by email within 24 business hours with the next steps and availability for your consultation.
- Reply within 24 business hours
- Support in English, Spanish and Italian
- Video consultations from any country
- Your data is kept confidential
Email: sebaszuccalaitalia@gmail.com