Italy has issued a new visa requirement for overseas students with Type D visas, requiring them to organize individual appointments for fingerprinting at Italian consulates. The new rule, which will take effect on January 10, 2025, aims to improve the country's security processes. The added administrative effort, however, will result in lengthier wait times and a more complex application procedure. It will result in increased prices and travel needs.

Indian candidates for Type D visas who apply after January 10, 2025, will be required to book individual fingerprinting appointments at Italian consulates. Type D visas are valid for long-term stays and apply to candidates who desire to study or conduct research in Italy for more than 90 days.  

  The study visa for graduate and undergraduate students is classified as Type D.

According to official data, there were 6,017 Indian students in Italy on study visas in 2024, compared to 5,196 in 2023. In 2019, there were 4791 Indian students in Italy; 3211 in 2020, and 3008 in 2021.

Italy had promised a 12-month extension for Indian students who wanted to stay in the country after completing their degrees. According to the agreement, Indian students who want to gain their first professional experience after finishing academic/vocational training in Italy may be given temporary residency in Italy for up to 12 months. 

Previously, persons with a master's or PhD may stay in Italy for up to a year after finishing their studies.  

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