Italy's EU Long-Term Residence Permit

EU long-term residence permit (permesso di soggiorno UE per soggiornanti di lungo periodo)

Article 9 of the Consolidated Immigration Act lets a non-EU national who has held a valid residence permit for at least five years apply for the EU long-term residence permit. Income must reach at least the annual amount of the social allowance (assegno sociale), with higher thresholds when family members are included, and the applicant needs housing that meets public-housing standards or has a fitness certificate from the local health authority. A pass in an Italian language test is required. The status is permanent; the document is valid for ten years and renewed automatically on request, or five years for minors.

Qualifying period

5 years holding a valid residence permit

Income

At least the annual social allowance (assegno sociale)

Language

Italian language test required

Document

Valid 10 years; renewed automatically on request

Absences

Each under 6 months, 10 months in total over 5 years

Loss of status

After 12 months in a row outside the EU

Requirements

• At least five years holding a valid Italian residence permit.
• Income not lower than the annual social allowance, increased when family members are included.
• Housing that meets regional public-housing standards or is certified fit by the local health authority.
• A passed Italian language test, unless an exemption applies, such as for certain researchers.

How to apply

1. Check that five years of permits are continuous and that absences stay within six months each and ten months overall.
2. Pass the Italian language test required under Article 9, or document an exemption.
3. Submit the application kit through the post office with income and housing evidence, then attend the Questura appointment.