Site map

front page > papers

Christmas at home for everyone

Published 2007.12.26

Those awaiting renewal of their residency permit can visit their home country and then return to Italy when they wish, on condition that they observe the following rules.

• First of all, they must keep their passport or equivalent identifying document with them, as well as the copy or the original of the expired residency permit and the receipt for the presentation of the application for renewal (issued by Police Headquarters or, with the new procedure, by the Post Office).

• Travellers must leave the country and re-enter it through the same border point.

• Their travel must not transit in other countries covered by the Schengen area, which may be a problem for those travelling to countries that do not have direct connections with Italy.

Foreign citizens who hold a currently valid residency permit or card may travel within the Schengen area without requesting tourist visas and need only carry their passport and residency permit.

Those who wish to travel in countries outside the Schengen area must apply to the diplomatic representatives of those countries in Italy if, on the basis of agreements with their country of origin, they need a visa.

Also in this case, while travelling, they must keep their residency permit with them, as this will be essential in order to return to Italy.