How to obtain a D visa for immigration to Italy?

Immigration to Italy: Type D Visa

Immigration to Italy begins with the process of obtaining a category D visa, which can later be converted into a residence permit. This type of visa is national and requires significantly more effort during the application process than a Schengen visa. Let's explore the legal ways to move to Italy to start a new life.

Long-term visa category D

A category D visa is a long-term visa that allows you to stay in the country for more than 90 days within a six-month period. Unlike a Schengen visa, which is intended for short-term trips, this visa serves as the basis for obtaining a residence permit.

It is intended for entry into Italy, as the chances of obtaining a residence permit arise only upon arrival on Italian soil. If a person does not intend to stay in Europe for more than three months, it will be sufficient to obtain a Schengen visa.

Reasons for obtaining a D visa

There are many grounds for obtaining a category D visa, and they align with various reasons for applying for a residence permit. Italian authorities issue residence permits strictly based on the visa that was obtained. For example, if a student visa is issued, it can only be converted into a student residence permit.

The process of obtaining a category D visa is more complicated compared to a Schengen visa. This is because, by granting a D visa, the Italian authorities allow a foreigner to eventually become a permanent resident, enjoying all social services. Italian consulates carefully check all applicants' documents, and while refusals for Schengen visas are not very common, the review process for national visas is much stricter. The most common reason for refusal can be attributed to non-compliance with immigration legislation requirements.

Validity period of visa D

The national visa for entering Italy can be valid for three months to one year and usually transitions into a residence permit. Initially, this residence permit is issued for one year, but it can be extended if the reasons for which it was obtained remain valid.

A D visa, like a residence permit, allows for travel and residence in other Schengen Area countries; however, in this case, the duration of stay must not exceed 90 days within a six-month period.

The procedure for obtaining a residence permit

When entering Italy on a category D visa, it is important to appear at the questura within eight working days to apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno).

Who is eligible for a D visa?

Now let's consider who can apply for a D visa. First of all, it is worth mentioning close relatives of European Union citizens or foreigners who are already in Italy on the basis of a residence permit or permanent residence. This includes, for example, spouses, children under 21 or dependents, as well as elderly parents, grandparents, who are being supported (including the relatives of the spouse).

The group of potential D visa applicants also includes:

• Financially independent foreigners intending to move to Italy for permanent residence.
• Patients who are planning long-term treatment in Italian medical facilities.
• Students enrolled in Italian colleges, educational institutions, or long-term language courses.
• Workers who received job offers from Italian companies.

Conclusion

Thus, immigration to Italy is quite feasible; it is carried out through obtaining a D visa, which subsequently automatically leads to a residence permit. Although the process has certain complexities, living in this country opens up numerous opportunities for work and personal life.

It's important to thoroughly prepare for the collection and submission of documents to avoid rejections and to quickly start a new life in Italy.

The important role of freelancers and entrepreneurs in Italy

Individuals working in freelance professions, as well as entrepreneurs conducting their activities independently, play a key role in the economic structure of Italy. This category also includes volunteers who have received invitations from official Italian organizations and representatives of religious communities invited by various denominations.

The process of renewing a residence visa

For those who previously hold a visa for temporary or permanent residence in Italy but have encountered the issue of the document expiring, there is an option for renewal. Such circumstances may arise if the documents were lost or if their validity has expired.

Options for obtaining residence permits

The Italian system offers a variety of options for obtaining residence permits, and different groups of citizens have the right to work legally in the country. Self-employed workers, including freelancers, generally face fewer administrative hurdles compared to hired employees, and the number of such professionals has significantly increased in recent years. These individuals can operate in various fields, including:

• art;
• technology;
• services.

The contribution of these professionals to the economy is particularly significant.

Volunteers and their contribution

For volunteers invited by Italian organizations, there are special conditions that allow them to continue their activities. These volunteers make a valuable contribution to the development of local communities by assisting in the implementation of social projects, which are often critically important for various segments of the population. Such offers usually come from:

• non-profit organizations;
• charitable foundations.

These organizations are working to improve the social infrastructure in Italy.

Religious figures in Italy

Religious figures who receive invitations from churches or other religious organizations can also legally stay in Italy. Their activities often involve spiritual mentoring and support for local communities, which further deepens social ties within society.

Extension and restoration of residence permits

For those who already have a residence permit in Italy but whose documents have expired, there is a procedure for renewal or restoration. This involves submitting all necessary documents to the local immigration authorities to reinstate residency status. Such measures help maintain the stability of immigration policy and provide flexibility for those who wish to stay in the country and continue their lives there.

An individual approach to each case

It should be emphasized that each case is individual, and the rules may vary depending on the specific circumstances. Nevertheless, support for various categories of immigrants in Italy remains an important area of government policy, and there are many programs aimed at helping people integrate into Italian society. This includes:

• language courses;
• educational initiatives;
• various employment opportunities.

These measures help new residents adapt more easily to life in Italy.

Conclusion

Thus, individuals working in freelance professions, volunteers, religious workers, and those with a valid residence permit are part of the group of people who can continue their activities and live in Italy. Each of them makes a unique contribution to society, enriching the country with their experience and culture, which adds diversity and complexity to Italy.

The process of obtaining a visa for Italy

In this article, we will discuss how to obtain a visa for Italy, as well as the process of family reunification for close relatives of European Union citizens or foreigners who have a residence permit in this country.

If you are planning to go to Italy, you need to gather a set of documents that depends on the type of visa you intend to apply for. First of all, you need to make an appointment at the Italian visa center, where on the scheduled day you will need to provide all the necessary documents and undergo the fingerprinting procedure.

Long-term visa based on "chosen place of residence"

The long-term visa based on the concept of "chosen residence" is intended for foreign citizens who have a stable financial situation and reliable passive income. This visa is not permitted for employment or conducting business in Italy.

It is expected that applicants for this visa have a certain amount of capital that ensures them a comfortable life in the country, as well as the ability to provide evidence of stable and regular income for the future.

Sources of income can include assets such as:

• Income from entrepreneurial activity
• Investment property
• Interest rates on bank deposits
• Dividends from stocks
• Income from bonds
• Pension payments

At the same time, income from employment is not taken into account. The minimum acceptable annual income for applicants is31,000 eurosIn the case of an application submitted by a spouse, the amount increases by20%, and on5%for each dependent child.

Another mandatory requirement is the presence of real estate, either purchased or rented for a long term in Italy. The applicant must write a motivation letter in English or Italian, explaining their intentions and reasons for moving to Italy.

Medical visa for foreign citizens

For foreign citizens in need of long-term medical treatment in Italian healthcare facilities, a medical visa is provided. The basis for obtaining it is an invitation from the clinic, which specifies the details of the necessary procedures, the duration, and the cost of treatment.

In addition, the patient needs to make a deposit of at least30%from the total amount of treatment. It is also necessary to provide medical documents confirming the presence of the disease, which can be done by submitting a copy of the medical record or a discharge summary obtained in the country of residence.

If assistance is expected, a medical visa can also be issued for a companion.

Student visa

A student visa is issued to those who plan to study at universities or colleges, undertake internships, or participate in intensive Italian language courses. The validity of this visa depends on the duration of the studies.

Incoming students must provide an invitation from the educational institution in Italy, as well as documents confirming their enrollment and payment for educational services.

Work visa

A work visa is required for foreign citizens intending to get a job in Italian companies, start their own business, create a startup, or engage in private practice. To apply, one must present a contract with an employer from Italy or a well-developed business plan, as well as proof of having the necessary financial resources.

In addition, it is necessary to obtain special permission from the local authorities —no objectionTypically, a primary work visa is issued for a period of up to one year.

Documents for a long-term type D visa

There is a general list of documents required for obtaining a long-term type D visa. These documents include:

• Evidence of the grounds for obtaining a visa (for example, a contract with an employer)
• Confirmation of enrollment in the educational institution
• Marriage certificate or birth certificate

This set of documents is essential for successfully obtaining a visa and legalizing your stay in Italy.

Obtaining a visa to enter Italy

To obtain permission to enter Italy, it is necessary to prepare a document known asno objectionThis document is issued by the immigration service of the competent authority located in the prefecture. Its validity is limited to just six months. A mandatory condition is the availability of financial resources that can support your living in Italy.

Confirmation of residence

After receiving the nulla osta, it is necessary to confirm the availability of housing in Italy. This can be done through:

• Official invitation.
• Hotel booking.
• Documents confirming the rental or purchase of real estate.

A ticket or confirmation of the flight booking to Italy will also be required; in some cases, a return ticket may be needed.

Preparation of visa documents

An important step is preparing the application form for a category D visa. The form must be filled out correctly, printed, and signed by the applicant. There are specific size requirements for the photo attached to the visa application — either 30 by 40 mm or 35 by 45 mm.

Foreign passport and its requirements

A foreign passport is also required, which must remain valid for three months longer than the intended duration of the visa. Additionally, copies of the pages of the valid foreign passport, as well as the pages with any canceled visa that contain personal information and visa stamps, will be needed.

Payment of the consular fee

Don't forget to pay the consular fee: for Russian citizens, it is116 euros, and for students —50 eurosPayment can be made at the branches of Intesa Bank or online, followed by printing the receipt.

Confirmation of citizenship

To confirm your citizenship, you need to provide both the original and a copy of your passport, whether it is Russian citizenship or from another country, as well as a signature consenting to the processing of personal data.Medical insuranceshould provide coverage of at least30,000 euros.

Moving with family

If you are planning to move with your family, you should prepare:

• Marriage certificate.
• Birth certificates of children — originals and copies.

Pensioners must provide the original and a copy of their pension certificate. When traveling with minor children, the following will be required:

• Birth Certificate.
• Notarized consent from the other parent for travel.
• Copy of the other parent's passport.

Translations and legalization of documents

All submitted documents must be translated into Italian if they are not in English. The translation must be done by accredited translators working with the consulate, and then the translated documents must be legalized or notarized with an apostille attached.

Visa processing times

The visa application process can take up to120 daysin accordance with the established rules. Currently, the cost of services at the visa center is3,375 rublesthat can be paid in cash or by bank card when submitting documents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that immigration to Italy is a serious step that requires careful preparation and understanding of all the nuances. Obtaining a D visa, which is the basis for further obtaining a residence permit, is an important stage in this process. Although the requirements for this visa are significantly stricter compared to Schengen visas, it is the one that opens the doors to legal residence and an active life in Italy.

It is worth noting that not only close relatives of European citizens can obtain a D visa, but also:

• Students, enrolled in Italian colleges and courses.
• Workerswho received job offers from Italian companies.
• Entrepreneursand freelancers.
• Patientswishing to undergo long-term treatment.
• Volunteersreceived invitations from Italian organizations.

This indicates a fairly wide range of opportunities for those who are looking to move to this amazing country.

It's also important to remember that the visa application process requires careful attention to document submission, as Italian consulates thoroughly check the information and grounds for issuing this document.Errors or deficiencies in the documentation can lead to a rejection.that will make the attempt to emigrate more complicated and burdensome.

In conclusion, anyone considering moving to Italy should remember that it is not only an opportunity to start a new life but also a significant responsibility. I hope this article helps you better understand the process of obtaining a D visa and confidently take the first step towards your dream.Wishing you success on your journey to life in Italy!