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Pre-departure documents

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Zencookie
  1/15/2022 20:00 EST

We have rented an apartment for a year starting on April 1, 2022. We will not be working during our stay, just studying Italian language and culture, and exploring the country.

We are having some trouble understanding from the Italian consulate here in the US just what kind of documentation or permission we might need to secure before we arrive in Italy.

Perhaps someone here has knowledge they could share with us. Thank you in advance.

MrsVannelli
  1/15/2022 21:20 EST

Are you dual citizens or are you applying for an ER visa? You can only stay for 90 days out of 180 days without either a visa or citizenship. If only one of you is a citizen, that person would need to apply for residency for the non-citizen spouse to stay longer than 90 days.

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MrsVannelli
  1/15/2022 21:20 EST

It is possible to apply for a student visa but there are specific requirements for that. Check your consulate for options.

italianlaw
  1/15/2022 21:49 EST

Hello Zen
You will need to obtain from the Italian Consulate an Elective Visa. There are a few requirements one of which is you may not work.

Anthony
www.italianlaw.net

Zencookie
  1/15/2022 22:10 EST

Thank you for your response, Anthony.

codybrandy
  1/16/2022 04:26 EST

Call and ask for an appointment at the consulate for an Elective Residency Visa. They will give you a packet of documentation that you will need to complete in order to apply for the first 1 year Visa. Also ask for a Codice Fiscale (sort of a Social Security#). Basically you need paid health insurance (tourist type), photos, at least c. $35K+ in your bank and a place to live. You may be cutting it a bit close for April...but go to them asap. Once you have all your docs (make copies of everything). Call again for an appointment. You will be able to apply for a retirement and non-working Visa. Once you arrive in Italy (within 8 days) you must start your residency and your Permesso di Soggiorno at the Questura near you.

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Zencookie
  1/16/2022 20:44 EST

Thank you for your reply. We think we need an elective residency visa. I have started the process for an FBI background check.

rsetzer99
  1/17/2022 03:16 EST

You do not need a FBI check for an Elective Residence Visa. Look up your consulate and get the exact requirements. https://theslowtourist.com/theslow1/?s=consulate

Lanonnade5
  1/17/2022 08:38 EST

https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/italy-visa/us-citizenship-passport-holders/

Lanonnade5
  1/17/2022 08:39 EST

https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/italy-visa/us-citizenship-passport-holders/

ArnoLand
  1/17/2022 12:58 EST

My consulate required and fbi check or rather an fbi history scan. I just finished the process.

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italianlaw
  1/17/2022 13:05 EST

Regarding FBI docs, don't forget they must be translated into Italian + Apostille + Italian Consulate for approval

We do this for our clients

Anthony
www.italianlaw.net

Swordfish45
  1/18/2022 11:54 EST

Best is to talk to a consulate person instead of relying on their posted website info. A visit in person may be better, as whoever answers may not be patient enough to give you an official answer. Due to covid, rules in italy change weekly region by region, as infection rates vary among towns.
As far as permit to stay, my recollection is that as a non-EU citizen you are not allowed to stay longer than 90 days (check that). Remember that Italy enforces rules that are as strict as the ones USA enforces on anybody who wants to stay in the USA for extended periods of time. You may be required to show proof of income, bank statements and health insurance.
It pays to research every detail before you decide to depart. I would not rely on anybody's advice, including mine, or experience, as immigration/custom rules in EU and Italy are as strict as the USA ones. A visit to an italian consulate would be my best suggestion.
Enjoy your stay

rsetzer99
  1/18/2022 13:25 EST

The Italian health ministry is here with all covid rules in English https://www.salute.gov.it/portale/nuovocoronavirus/dettaglioContenutiNuovoCoronavirus.jsp?lingua=english&id=5412&area=nuovoCoronavirus&menu=vuoto. As people who have done the process and found it difficult to fine official information on various things i set to www.theslowtourist.com to collect links and how to articles on both pre and post move requirements. No ads, no sales. Just how tos and things to do and visit.

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