🇮🇹 Italy · Researcher
RICERCA — requirements, costs & how to apply
Who is eligible
| Job offer | Required |
| Employer sponsor | Required |
| Work experience | 2+ years |
| Health insurance | Required (valid in-country) |
Costs
| Application / consular fee | €116 |
Duration & renewal
Initial stay: 12 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Documents
- Application form duly filled up and signed
- Valid passport or travel document valid at least 3 months (plus photocopy)
- Valid UK Residence Permit and UK eVisa share code (plus photocopy)
- Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months
- "Nulla osta" (authorisation) for research from the Immigration Desk (SUI) of the relevant Questura (Police Station) (for stays longer than three months)
- Documentation certifying that the applicant is a researcher employed by a foreign university or research institution (for short stays)
- Hosting agreement (Convenzione di accoglienza) concluded with the Italian accredited University or Research Institute specifying the research program activity, salary and insurance (for short stays)
- Round-trip travel ticket reservation for short-term Schengen Visa shorter than 90 days
- One way travel tickets reservation for long-term National visa longer than 90 days
How to apply
- Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
- Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://conslondra.esteri.it/en/servizi-consolari-e-visti/servizi-per-il-cittadino-straniero/visti/research/.
Frequently asked
Does this visa lead to permanent residence?
No — it does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes — valid health insurance in the country is required.
Sources & verification
Every figure on this page is taken from an official government source and dated. Nothing is inferred.
“Documentation certifying that the applicant is a researcher employed by a foreign university or research institution is required.”
“researcher = residência temporária ligada ao projeto/contrato; PR é processo separado (not_applicable)”
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Informational only, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change — always confirm on the official government source linked above before applying. Last verified 2026-06-22.