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UE long-term stay permit

Published 2007.03.12

The stay permit has been transformed into a 'long-term stay permit' and is issued after 5 years here on a regular basis.

In the Gazzetta Ufficiale, the legislative decree on 'long-term stayers' establishes that citizens from outside the EU, as foreseen by a European directive, after five years regular residence are almost compared to citizens from other EU countries.

Benefits include the issuing of a 'super stay permit' and the possibility to move around EU countries freely even for work purposes.

The following can apply for a long-term stay permit for themselves and family members: 'foreigners who have had a valid stay permit for at least five years', with an income that is no lower than the yearly social security benefit.

Those applying for family members too must prove they live in suitable lodgings based on minimum Regional law parameters for public council housing or on hygiene/health requirements ascertained by the local Health Authority.

Said permit will not be issued to those foreign citizens considered dangerous for public order and safety.

Those with a long-term stay permit, even if issued by another European Union Country, can enter Italy without a visa and do any autonomous or employed work, except for anything expressly forbidden for foreigners.

Furthermore, employees will not be required to draw up a stay contract as well as their work contract.

The permit gives the person rights to:

• social security and assistance,

• health,

• school and social services

• and to services and goods available to the public like, for example, council housing.

This decree comes into force on 15th February 2007.

From that moment onwards, anyone with all requirements can apply for the new permit.