Italy Implements New Visa Rules for International Students: What You Need to Know

The Italian government has introduced significant changes to its visa regulations for international students and individuals applying for long-term visas (D Visa) for stays exceeding 90 days. These new measures, effective January 10, 2025, aim to streamline the visa application process but are also raising concerns among students and stakeholders.

Key Changes in the Visa Process

Under the new regulations, applicants must now book individual appointments at Italian consulates for their fingerprint collection. This policy eliminates the batch processing option previously available to many institutions in the United States, adding new layers of complexity to the application process.

The shift requires applicants to attend in-person appointments, potentially increasing travel costs and logistical challenges for international students. Italian consulates are expected to face an increased administrative burden as a result.

Concerns About Increased Costs and Delays

Experts have raised alarms over the implications of these changes:

• Jill Allen Murray, Deputy Executive Director of Public Policy at NAFSA, emphasized that these rules will place significant financial and logistical burdens on students. Long-distance travel to consulates for appointments could deter prospective applicants.
• Melissa Torres, CEO of the Forum on Education Abroad, warned that the policy could negatively impact Italy’s growing popularity as a study destination for U.S. students. With a 37% increase in American students choosing Italy in the past year, the stricter requirements might discourage semester-long programs, forcing institutions to reconsider program lengths.

Impact on Students from Iran and Afghanistan

The policy changes could further complicate matters for students from countries already grappling with visa delays:

• Iranian Students: Protests have erupted over prolonged processing times, with approximately 1,000 Iranian students awaiting visa responses.
• Afghan Students: Over 150 Afghan students, some waiting since July, are struggling to secure appointments. Many must travel to neighboring countries like Pakistan or Iran to complete their applications, adding further financial strain.

A Mixed Outlook for International Students

While the new regulations aim to standardize visa processes, they risk deterring students from pursuing education in Italy. Stakeholders in international education are urging the Italian government to address these challenges to maintain its reputation as a leading study destination.