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Permesso di soggiorno basics: what it is and who needs one

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Short answer

What the permesso di soggiorno is, who needs it, and the main permit types.

Information, not legal advice. MovItaly is not a law firm. Check with the questura or consulate before you act.

Who is this for

Non-EU citizens who plan to stay in Italy for more than 90 days. EU citizens do not need a permesso; they can register at the Comune instead.

What it is

The permesso di soggiorno is the card that proves your right to live in Italy. It is issued by the Polizia di Stato (Questura) and is tied to a reason for staying: work, study, family, protection, or others. The reason decides your rights, for example whether you may work.

Sources

Last verified: 2026-10-20 Report an error

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