Starting January 10, 2025, a significant change will impact students planning to study in Italy for programmes exceeding 90 days. Applicants for Type D visas will now be required to schedule individual appointments for fingerprinting at Italian consulates, a move expected to streamline security procedures but also increase administrative complexities. As this new mandate comes into effect, both consulates and prospective students will face additional steps in the application process, leading to longer wait times and a more detailed approach to visa processing. Take a look at the details of the Type D visa and how it will impact the international student.
What is a Type D visa?
The Type D visa, often referred to as a long-term visa, is particularly relevant to students planning to study abroad, offering an extended stay option that covers the duration of their academic programme. While the Type D visa is not universally recognized across all countries, it is an essential route for students in several European nations, such as Switzerland and some Schengen Area countries, where it provides the opportunity for long-term residence, typically exceeding 90 days.
In many cases, the Type D visa allows students to stay in the host country for the length of their course. This includes both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, making it a preferred choice for international students who require a more extended stay beyond short-term student visas. The application process often involves demonstrating proof of acceptance to an accredited educational institution, financial stability, and a clean criminal record.
Benefits of Type D visa
The Type D visa provides numerous benefits to the students as provided here.
- Extended Stay for Education: The Type D visa is designed for long-term stays, allowing students to remain in the host country for the duration of their academic programme, typically over 90 days. This eliminates the need for frequent visa renewals.
- Work Opportunities: In many countries, students holding a Type D visa can work part-time while studying, providing them with the opportunity to earn money and gain valuable work experience. However, the number of working hours allowed is often capped, typically ranging from 10 to 20 hours per week.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: In certain countries, the Type D visa can serve as a stepping stone to permanent residency or citizenship. Students who meet the necessary residency requirements, such as years of stay and employment, can apply for long-term residency after their studies.
Implications of this change on students
The introduction of mandatory fingerprinting appointments for Type D visa applicants, effective January 10, 2025, is set to significantly impact students planning to study in Italy for extended programmes. Here’s how this change could affect them:
- Longer Processing Times: The new requirement will likely result in extended visa processing times, as students must first schedule fingerprinting appointments at Italian consulates. This could delay the overall application process, requiring students to plan further ahead and submit their documents well in advance of their programme start dates.
- Increased Administrative Effort: Students will need to navigate an additional step in the visa application, coordinating a separate appointment for fingerprinting. This adds an extra layer of complexity to what is already a detailed and time-consuming process, increasing the risk of administrative errors or missed deadlines.
- Higher Costs and Travel Demands: For students living far from Italian consulates, the need for in-person fingerprinting appointments could lead to additional travel expenses. Some may have to take time off work or studies to attend these appointments, adding both financial and logistical burdens.
- Potential Backlogs: With increased demand for fingerprinting appointments, consulates could face backlogs, especially during peak application seasons. This could create a race against time for students to secure their slots, further complicating the visa application process.
- Strain on Student Resources: Many international students rely on timely processing for various aspects of their education, including securing housing, arranging travel, and finalizing financial plans. Delays or complications in obtaining their visas due to this new requirement could put unnecessary strain on their preparations, potentially affecting their ability to settle in time for their studies.
