Student Services

Practical information for international students at Unicollege: residence permit, personal tax code, health and safety guidelines.

01 Residence Permit and Residence Registration

Residence Permit and Residence Registration

Non-EU Citizens

If you are a non-EU citizen, you are required to complete a designated “kit” within 8 working days of arriving in Italy to apply for a residence permit in the city where you will reside. This kit is available at all post offices displaying a “Sportello Amico” sign and will also be provided during the welcome events before each semester. For more details, please consult your International Students Office/Desk.

The kit must be filled out and accompanied by copies of the following documents:

• Copy of your passport with visa and personal data page.
• A copy of your health insurance policy; if purchased abroad, it must be validated by the Italian Embassy in your country (unless already in English). Alternatively, you can purchase health insurance upon your arrival in Italy.
• For NON-EU Exchange students: a letter of acceptance to the exchange program.

Upon completing the kit and submitting it at the Post Office, you will receive a receipt confirming your residence permit application.

To verify the readiness of your residence permit for collection, you can visit either the Police website or the Immigration portal. Additionally, apart from the notifications displayed on the application status via the online system, you will receive an SMS informing you of the specific day, time, and location for collecting your residence permit.

International students holding a valid stay permit are permitted to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week and 1,040 hours per year. However, to renew the residence permit, they must successfully pass their exams each year.

EU Citizens

If you are an EU citizen or from EFTA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland), you are not required to apply for a residence permit. However, if your stay in Italy exceeds three months, it is advisable to register with the Anagrafe (Register office) of your municipality of residence. There are two registration options based on your intentions regarding permanent residence in Italy:

A. Students who do not intend to establish their permanent residence in Italy

To register a temporary residence in Italy, you need to submit the following documents to the Anagrafe office of your choice:

• Passport or ID card and a copy
• Original fiscal code and a copy
• University enrollment certificate in Italian (to be collected at the Secretary’s offices)
• European Health Insurance Card issued by your country of residence and a copy
• Proof of sufficient resources (minimum € 5825 for students with no family members to support), provided through modello EURO 1 self-certification (complete point “b” only if with family members to support). Indicate both your address in your country and your address in Florence/Milano/Turin/Mantua as your place of residence. The temporary residence is valid for 12 months.

Anagrafe offices:

• Florence: 50129, Città Metropolitana di Firenze, Firenze, P.za della Libertà
• Milan: Municipio 1 – Area Servizio al Cittadino, via Larga 12, 20122 Milano – Refer to “Ufficio Stranieri” or go to the central Desks, taking the ticket letter “C” – Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 15:30
• Turin: Via della Consolata, 23, 10122 Torino TO
• Mantua: Via Pietro Frattini, 60, 46100 Mantova MN

B. Students who intend to transfer their permanent residence to Italy

(please confirm with your home country the implications of permanently transferring your residence)

To register, email the Anagrafe office at ServiziAlCittadino(at)postacert.comune.milano.it with the subject line: APR, Name, and Surname. Attach the following documents:

• Copy of ID card
• Copy of “codice fiscale”
• University enrollment certificate in Italian (to be obtained from the Registrar’s office through the OnLine Services, following the indicated procedures here)
• Proof of health insurance (S1 form/private health insurance with a validity of one year/voluntary registration with the Italian national health system. The European health insurance card is not sufficient)
• Proof of sufficient resources (minimum € 5825 for students without family members’ support), provided through modello EURO 1 self-certification (complete point “b” only if with family members’ support)
• Statement of residence, provided through Dichiarazione di residenza self-certification. To fill in the first paragraph on page 4, contact the apartment owner. Students renting a room/flat should complete their rental contract details at point 2, page 4.

Residence Permit Renewal

For the renewal of the residence permit, you will need to complete the residence permit application kit (module 1 only), obtainable at the Post Office. Submit the kit to the Post Office along with the following documents:

• Valid passport with visa + copy of the page with personal data, dates of validity, and expiration.
• Copy of your current stay permit.
• Documentation confirming the availability of sufficient financial resources, approximately € 5825 (e.g., scholarship certification and a printout of your bank account).
• Transcript of records, demonstrating the successful completion of at least 1 exam for the first renewal and 2 exams for subsequent renewals. If seeking renewal after completing all exams, indicate in the certificate notes the available final degree presentation sessions (typically, April, July, October, December).
• Your health insurance documentation.

Cost of the Residence Permit

There are three fees associated with the residence permit application process:

• €16.00 for a “marca da bollo” (a stamp available at any tobacconist with a “T” sign outside the shop), to be affixed to the residence permit application.
• €30 to be paid during the second step of the procedure when submitting the kit to the Post Office.
• €70.46 to be paid at the Post Office to obtain the Electronic Residence Permit.

02 Personal Tax Code (Codice Fiscale)

Personal Tax Code (Codice Fiscale)

The “Codice fiscale” is a 16-character alphanumeric code issued for free by the “Agenzia delle Entrate” (Revenue Agency). It serves to identify both Italian citizens and foreign residents. Having your own “codice fiscale” is essential for various purposes, including:

• Opening a bank account
• Signing any type of contract (rental, phone line, etc.)
• Registering at the National Healthcare Service (SSN)

You can obtain your tax code by reaching out to the Italian Representative in your country of residence.

If you are already residing in Italy, you can directly approach Agenzia delle Entrate by scheduling an appointment.

03 Health & Well-Being

Health & Well-Being

Unicollege’s Commitment to Student Well-being and Cultural Sensitivity in Italy

Unicollege is dedicated to safeguarding the well-being, safety, and security of its students during their study abroad experience in Italy. Emphasizing the significance of maintaining a positive image and acting as considerate ambassadors of their home countries, Unicollege encourages students to conduct individual research.

To achieve these objectives, Unicollege ensures that students are acquainted with local customs, traditions, norms, and laws in Italy. This approach aims to cultivate respectful, responsible, and safe behavior among students. Recognizing that the experience of navigating a different cultural and academic environment can be stressful, Unicollege provides guidelines to prepare students for life abroad.

Adherence to these guidelines not only contributes to a safer and more secure environment but also enhances students’ overall experience of intercultural awareness and exchange during their study in Italy. Unicollege believes that fostering cultural responsibility is integral to creating a positive and enriching study abroad experience for all students.

Pre-Departure Recommendations

Before embarking on their journey, Unicollege strongly recommends that students take proactive measures for their health and well-being:

• Health Check-ups: Consult healthcare providers for general and dental check-ups, ensuring compliance with required vaccinations and immunizations both in the home country and abroad.
• Mental Health Preparedness: Students currently receiving mental health counseling should schedule a pre-departure visit. It is advisable to create a plan of action to address any mental health issues that may arise during the study abroad period.
• Prescription Medications: Arrive in Italy with an adequate supply of prescription medications. Those on daily medication should discuss the required quantity with their doctor. Medications must be in original containers with clear labels. For refills in Italy, students need a list of generic names. Payment for medications is upfront, with reimbursement subject to respective insurance policies.
• Special Medications: Some medications available in home countries may not be accessible in Italy. For specific medications like contraceptives, over-the-counter drugs, or those for ADD and ADHD, students should consult with their home country’s consulate or embassy. If prescribed such medications, a signed and stamped note from the doctor is required.
• Health Insurance: Students are obligated to have valid health insurance covering their entire stay in Italy. This insurance must be obtained in their home country before departure. Existing home country health plans may not provide comprehensive coverage for international travel. Students must carry insurance information, pay medical expenses upfront, and submit claims to initiate reimbursement according to policy terms.
• International Health Insurance: Students without existing international health insurance can coordinate with Unicollege to obtain comprehensive coverage for the program’s duration. It’s crucial to note that this international insurance supplements, not replaces, domestic coverage in the home country.
• Pre-Departure Communication: Students should contact Unicollege well in advance to communicate any needs, accommodations, or disability-related requirements. Since support services may differ, early inquiries and arrangements with Unicollege are essential, along with carrying official documentation related to accommodation needs and requested services while abroad.

During Your Stay in Italy

Healthcare Information for Unicollege Students Studying in Italy

Unicollege ensures that students have access to essential healthcare information and support during their time in Italy:

• Local Healthcare Resources: Students will receive a comprehensive list of local healthcare facilities, clinics, service providers, and pharmacies during their orientation session on-site.
• Preventive Health Measures: While in Italy, students are strongly advised to integrate precautionary measures into their daily health routines. This includes monitoring symptoms, adhering to medical advice, and practicing preventive measures to contribute to public health.
• International Health Insurance Support: In addition to coordinating student life at Unicollege, the Unicollege Advising Team can assist students in navigating international health insurance. They can also provide referrals to English-speaking healthcare practitioners and specialists in private clinics and labs.
• On-Campus Mental Health Support: Unicollege offers on-campus mental health professionals who provide free psychological support services to students. Contact information and office hours can be obtained from Unicollege Advisors on-site, and appointments can be conveniently scheduled online. If needed, students requiring assistance beyond the scope of Unicollege counseling services may be referred to a third-party healthcare provider.
• Hospital Information: Hospitals in Italy are categorized as public or private. For urgent care needs, individuals must visit a public hospital, as private hospitals generally lack emergency rooms. The public hospital emergency room, known as “pronto soccorso,” assigns patients a color code based on the severity of their condition: red (very critical), yellow (moderately critical), green (not very critical), white (not critical). Students visiting the emergency room should carry their original passport and be prepared to pay fees upfront.
• Pharmacy Accessibility: Pharmacies, identifiable by a prominent green cross sign, are easily accessible. Some medications are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription from an Italian doctor. Typically, pharmacies operate between 9:00 am and 7:30-8:00 pm, with closures on Sundays.

Safety Guidelines

Safety at Unicollege is a shared responsibility. It’s crucial to make thoughtful decisions to minimize risks for oneself and others, following common-sense safety measures applicable in Italy and across Europe. Students are subject to Italian laws during their time at Unicollege, and adherence to guidelines is vital to avoid safety or legal issues.

A dedicated team of advisors is available to support students, addressing academic, personal, and emergency concerns. Each student is assigned a Unicollege Advisor for ongoing assistance. At orientation, students receive a student ID card and information on emergency contacts. Unicollege provides a 24/7 emergency phone number and ensures safe housing. Students are encouraged to be vigilant, use reputable transportation services, and register with their home country’s embassy. Responsible alcohol consumption is emphasized, and engaging in illegal activities has serious consequences. Unicollege Advisors can assist in filing local police reports if needed.

Safety tips include storing important documents securely, being aware of surroundings, and reporting concerns promptly. Students should use the “buddy system” for nightlife, exercise caution with personal belongings, and stay informed about local events. Travel plans should be shared with trusted contacts, and students are advised to follow local laws and customs when traveling outside Italy.

Overall, safety is a top priority at Unicollege, and students are encouraged to prioritize their well-being and that of the community.