Visiting Researchers

As a non-EU researcher, awarded a research grant or a research training fellowship, there are several administrative procedures you will need to complete.

Before your arrival

After you have been awarded a research grant or a research training fellowship, you will receive:

  1. the Hosting Agreement, which must be signed and returned to the Incoming Office;
  2. the Nulla Osta (Entry Clearance) issued by the Prefecture

Once you have received the Nulla Osta (Entry Clearance), you must apply for a "Scientific Research" visa (pursuant to Art. 27-ter of the Italian Immigration Act).

To apply for the visa, you will generally be required to submit the following documents:

  • visa application form
  • a recent passport-size photograph;
  • a valid travel document with an expiry date at least three months beyond the requested visa period;
  • the Nulla Osta (Entry Clearance) for research purposes issued by the Prefecture – Territorial Government Office.

Upon your arrival

Permit of stay

After your arrival, you must apply for your Permit of Stay within 8 working days. With the support of a staff member from the Incoming Office, you will need to go to the Prefecture to collect the Nulla Osta. There you will be provided with the pre-filled postal kit for the permit of stay application and, if you do not already have one, also with the Italian tax code (necessary for the work contract).

On the same day, the application will be sent to the Police Headquarters (Questura) through the post office, together with a copy of the Nulla Osta, and you will be given an appointment for fingerprinting. The application will cost you around 70 EUR.

IMPORTANT! You must keep the receipt issued by the post office, as you will need to show it together with your passport in the event of a police check.

To check the status of your residence permit application or renewal, after your appointment at the Questura, you can enter the application code assigned during the appointment or the insured number on the Italian State Police website.

Renewal of your permit of stay

For renewal, you will need to go independently to a post office and request the residence permit kit. If needed, you can also turn to a CAF (Citizens’ Advice Bureau) for assistance in completing the application.

Attention: The appointment for fingerprinting, as well as the issuance or renewal of the residence permit, can take several months to complete.

Accommodation

The university will assist you in finding accommodation for the first 15 days of your stay. After this initial period, you will be responsible for arranging your own housing. We recommend starting your search early and exploring options such as student residences, shared apartments, or private rentals to ensure a smooth transition and comfortable stay. Further possibilities at the following link.