Italy is one of the favorite destinations to study abroad. We are not surprised since this country has great cultural and touristic attractions, as well as prestigious universities. If you are thinking of going on Erasmus in Italy, before you can enjoy this great experience you will have to get your papers in order. We know that theItalian bureaucracy can be a bit slow and cumbersome, so be patient. If you do not know where to start this tedious task, we explain you the formalities you need to do for your Erasmus in Italy.  

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Residence Permit  

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If you are a student of the European Union, you can stay in Italy for up to 3 months without any permit. In case you want to extend your stay, this is one of the formalities you have to do. First, you will have to register at the Civil Registry Office corresponding to your residence.  

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On the other hand, if you are not a student of the European Union, you will have to go through a longer process. For stays longer than 3 months in the country, you must apply for a residence permit. This procedure is essential and must be completed within the first 8 days you spend in Italy. First, you must present the postal envelope requesting a residence permit at a Poste Italiane office. Once the envelope has been handed in, the Post Office will give you a letter of convocation. This will indicate when you should report to the nearest Immigration Office or Police Station to finalize the process.    

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Declaration of Presence and Temporary Residence  

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The declaration of presence must be made at a police office upon arrival in Italy. This is a short stay permit, in which you will declare your new residence. You must also complete it at the police station before the end of your first week in the country.  

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As a student, you can register as a temporary resident in the municipality where you will reside. In Italian this procedure is known as Iscrizione allo schedario della popolazione temporanea.  

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To do this you will need to present your identity card, your Italian university registration, European health card or alternative insurance. You must also bring your rental contract and documentation proving you have sufficient financial resources. Don’t forget any of these documents at home!  

Codice Fiscale  

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This is the tax identification number in Italy, something like the NIF in Spain. The Codice Fiscale is probably the most important formality you need to do to be able to live in this country.It is really important because it allows you to carry out any procedure related to economic transactions. To open a bank account, to register in thehealth system and even to buy a cell phone, you need the Codice Fiscale. This number is free of charge and to obtain it you must go to an Agenzia delle Entrate. It isimportant to bring your identity card with you in order to complete the procedure.  

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Access to medical care  

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If you are a student from the European Union, you can obtain a European Health Insurance Card. It is free, valid for one year and will allow you to receive free health care. Please note that you can only use it in public health centers, as private doctors do not accept the EHIC.  

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If you have a residence permit, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of Italian health care. To do this, you must register with the SSN (national health service). By registering here, you will be able to benefit from health care similar to that received by locals.  

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Keep in mind that this coverage is not absolute, so you should consider taking out private insurance. Many universities have this offer available. They also offer the best price options.

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