For many international students, learning Italian is more than an academic goal. It can also be an opportunity to spend several months living in Italy, experience a new culture and discover what life in Milan is really like.
For eligible non-EU nationals, enrolling in a qualifying Italian language programme may provide a route to obtaining a student visa, with the possibility of working part-time while studying.
Established in 1976, ILS International Language School in Milan offers intensive Italian courses for students planning a longer stay, alongside shorter and more flexible programmes for international residents already living in the city. Located in the historic centre, a short walk from the Duomo, the school combines classroom learning with opportunities to practise Italian in everyday situations.
But before planning your move, it is important to understand how Italy’s student visa system works, which courses may qualify and what studying in Milan could mean for your future.
Can you get an Italian student visa to study the language?
Italy allows eligible non-EU nationals to apply for a study visa to attend Italian language courses. However, not every course qualifies.
According to the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, language courses supporting a student visa application must be full-time, of fixed duration and at a higher level.
Some Italian consulates require evidence of existing Italian-language proficiency. For example, the Italian Consulate General in New York specifies that applicants must already have at least B1-level Italian and enrol in a course at B2 level or above. Teaching-hour requirements may also vary between consulates.
For stays exceeding 90 days, eligible non-EU applicants generally require a national long-stay visa (Type D), followed by an Italian residence permit for study purposes, known as a permesso di soggiorno per studio.
Enrolling in a language school does not automatically guarantee a student visa. Applicants must meet the requirements of the Italian consulate responsible for their place of legal residence. EU citizens do not require an Italian student visa.
Planning a longer stay with ILS Milano
For students considering six months or a full year in Italy, choosing the right language programme is an important part of preparing for the move.
ILS Milano offers long-term intensive courses designed around regular language practice in small international groups, with an emphasis on speaking, listening and communication in real-life situations. Its 2027 programme includes three long-term options:
| Programme | Teaching weeks |
| 6 months | 24 weeks |
| 9 months | 36 weeks |
| 12 months | 48 weeks |
Classes run Monday to Friday, with 20 lessons per week, each lasting 45 minutes. Groups generally consist of four to ten students, allowing opportunities for conversation and individual attention.
The school provides formal enrolment documentation, including an acceptance letter and certificate of enrolment, after the relevant enrolment steps have been completed. Applicants should confirm that their proposed course level, teaching hours and duration meet the criteria of their particular consulate.
Find further details about the intensive Italian language programmes at ILS Milano.
How to apply for an Italian student visa
The application process begins before travelling to Italy. Although requirements differ according to nationality and consular jurisdiction, the principal steps are generally similar.
1 Check your visa eligibility
Start with the Italian government’s official Visa for Italy portal and the embassy or consulate responsible for your area. Check the language proficiency requirements and whether the proposed course is eligible. This is particularly important for beginners, as some consulates require an intermediate level of Italian.
2 Select your course and obtain enrolment documents
Once you understand the requirements, choose a suitable programme and ask the school about its enrolment procedure. Your visa application will generally require official confirmation of your studies, including the course duration, timetable and relevant details of the institution.
3 Prepare your supporting documents
Applicants are generally required to provide a valid passport, appropriate health insurance, proof of accommodation and evidence of sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay. Additional documentation may include previous educational qualifications, proof of Italian-language proficiency and travel arrangements.
Financial requirements depend on the applicable visa rules and duration of stay. Check the current amount with your consulate rather than relying on a general estimate.
4 Submit your application and prepare for arrival
Applications must follow the procedures established by the relevant Italian embassy or consulate. Once a long-stay visa has been issued, students must apply for their permesso di soggiorno promptly after arriving in Italy. Official EU guidance specifies within eight days of arrival; confirm the applicable deadline and procedure with the relevant authorities before travelling.
This residence permit allows them to remain in Italy for their authorised studies, subject to its conditions and validity.
For other administrative essentials, see Easy Milano’s Codice Fiscale Guide.
Can you work in Italy while studying Italian?
One of the practical advantages of holding an Italian residence permit for study purposes is the possibility of working part-time.
Under Italian immigration rules, students with a valid study residence permit can generally undertake employment for up to 20 hours per week, subject to an annual maximum of 1,040 hours.
Part-time employment could provide an opportunity to gain experience, meet people and use Italian in a professional environment. However, employment is not guaranteed, and applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources independently of any anticipated earnings.
For those considering a longer future in Italy, eligible study residence permits may also be converted into work permits when the relevant legal conditions are satisfied. Conversion is not automatic, and completing a language course does not itself provide a right to remain in Italy after the authorised period of study. Seek advice on your particular permit before making plans.
Learning Italian beyond the classroom
Living in Milan provides an advantage that is difficult to recreate through online lessons alone: the opportunity to hear and practise Italian throughout the day. A morning lesson can continue over lunch with classmates, during a visit to a local market or in a conversation with someone in your neighbourhood.
For international newcomers, learning Italian can also make the process of settling in considerably easier. Understanding everyday conversations, dealing with appointments and communicating with local businesses become less intimidating as confidence grows.
There is a social side to language learning, too. Studying alongside people from different countries can be an introduction to Milan’s international community. Friendships formed in the classroom may extend into the city, while improved Italian makes it easier to build relationships outside the expatriate circle.
At ILS, the focus on practical communication and small-group interaction encourages students to use their developing language skills from the beginning. The school also organises social activities, giving students additional opportunities to connect beyond their lessons.
Already living in or visiting Milan
A student visa is not necessary for everyone interested in studying Italian. EU citizens, international residents with an existing right to stay in Italy and professionals looking to improve their language skills may prefer programmes that fit around work, university or family commitments.
ILS also offers shorter intensive courses lasting between one and twelve weeks, twice-weekly group classes and individual lessons tailored to specific needs. Individual courses can focus on conversational Italian, professional communication or academic preparation, with flexible scheduling and online options.
These shorter courses do not independently establish immigration eligibility or extend an existing permission to stay, but they offer additional ways to learn Italian for those legally entitled to remain in Italy.
Your Italian experience starts in Milan
Studying Italian can be a practical first step towards getting to know Milan as a resident rather than a visitor. A longer programme offers time to develop language skills, establish routines and build connections within the city.
For prospective international students, the key is to choose a course that suits both their learning objectives and the immigration requirements that apply to them.
If you are considering studying Italian in Milan, ILS offers a free language level assessment, with no obligation to enrol. It is an opportunity to understand your current level, discuss which programme may suit your plans and request a personalised quote.
Explore ILS Milano’s Italian courses and book your free level assessment
Visa requirements may vary by consulate and individual circumstances. Applicants should verify the latest regulations with the relevant Italian authorities before enrolling.
Article by Easy Milano in collaboration with ILS International Language School
Featured photo by Brooke Cagle
