Arrival: Apply for EU Blue Card in Italy: What It Is and How to Get It
The Arrival: Apply for EU Blue Card is an essential part of settling in Italy as a foreigner. Whether you are a student, worker, or relocating with family, understanding this step will save you time and frustration. It is one of the more complex bureaucratic steps that requires 7 documents. It typically costs €116.46. You should plan for this 8 working days from arrival.
What is Arrival: Apply for EU Blue Card?
Within 8 days of arrival, request the Blue Card permit via kit postale at the Post Office. Duration: 2 years (permanent contract) or contract duration + 3 months.
To complete this step, you will need to gather 7 documents and follow a specific procedure. The process can be complex and may require multiple visits or significant waiting times. Preparation is key. The associated cost is €116.46.
Based on the experience of thousands of foreigners who have gone through this process, there are several practical tips that can make your experience smoother. Being well-prepared before your appointment and having all documents in order are consistently the most important factors for success.
Who needs it?
This step is part of the "EU Blue Card (Highly Skilled Workers)" journey. Depending on your nationality (EU vs. non-EU), your specific visa type, and your city of residence, the exact requirements and timeline may vary.
Applicable visa and permit types
- EU Blue Card (Highly Skilled Workers)
What you'll need
You will need 7 documents to complete this step. Below is an overview of each one.
Kit from Post Office
A yellow envelope (kit postale) containing the forms for requesting your permesso di soggiorno. The Kit Postale envelope is free; the €30 is Poste Italiane's processing fee for handling the submission.
Cost: Free (kit itself) — €30 is the postal processing fee
Marca da bollo €16
A revenue stamp required for the application.
Cost: €16
Bollettino (varies)
Postal payment for the permit processing fee.
Cost: Varies
Passport + visa copy
Copies of your passport data page and the Blue Card visa.
Employment contract
The signed employment contract.
Nulla Osta copy
Copy of the Nulla Osta authorization.
4 passport photos
Four passport-size photos for the permit application.
Cost: €5-10
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Sign up freeThe process
Here is a high-level overview of the steps involved in completing this process.
- 1
Gather all required documents (listed below).
- 2
Check if the process can be done online — some options may be available depending on your situation.
- 3
Download and fill out the required official forms (Kit Postale (Modulo 1 + Modulo 2)).
- 4
Visit the relevant office. Common offices involved: Any Poste Italiane office with 'Sportello Amico', Tabaccheria (tobacco shop), Post Office.
- 5
Submit your application and any required fees.
- 6
Wait for processing. Times vary by region (see estimated wait times below).
- 7
Important: remember the deadline — 8 working days from arrival.
How long does it take?
Processing times vary significantly depending on your region. Here are the estimated wait times:
North
30-60 days for Questura appointment
Center
45-90 days for Questura appointment
South
60-120 days for Questura appointment
After submitting the kit, you receive a Questura appointment date. The receipt is valid proof of legal stay while waiting.
Common mistakes to avoid
Many foreigners run into the same issues when completing this step. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Missing the 8-day deadline after arrival
- Not having enough passport photos
- Forgetting the marca da bollo
Frequently asked questions
What is the 8-day deadline counted from?
The 8 working days start from the day after your arrival in Italy (the date stamped in your passport at the border). Weekends and public holidays do not count.
Source: Portale ImmigrazioneWhat is the difference between Carta Blu and a regular permesso per lavoro?
The Carta Blu (Blue Card) offers EU-wide mobility after 12 months, simplified family reunification, faster path to EU long-term residence, and the right to accumulate periods across EU member states. A regular work permit is limited to Italy only.
How long is the Blue Card valid?
2 years for permanent contracts, or the contract duration plus 3 months for fixed-term contracts. It is renewable.
Where do I find a Post Office with Sportello Amico?
Use the Post Office locator at poste.it and filter for 'Sportello Amico' service. Not all post offices offer this service.
Source: Poste ItalianeOfficial sources
All information on this page has been verified against official Italian government sources. Always double-check with the relevant office for the most current requirements.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently. Always verify with official sources.