The Most Common Bureaucracy Mistakes Students Make: and How to Avoid Them
Handling documents in Italy can feel complicated, especially when you’re new to Milan and still settling into your routine. Many students run into the same issues simply because the process isn’t always clear, and the information available online often varies from one source to another.
This guide highlights the most frequent mistakes we see international students make and the straightforward steps that help prevent them.
1. Missing the Permesso di Soggiorno deadline
Students sometimes postpone the Permesso application because they’re unpacking, meeting new people, or unsure about the timing. The rule is simple: you must submit your kit within 8 days of arriving in Italy.
How to avoid it:
Pick up the Permesso kit from the post office soon after you land, prepare the required documents, and keep the receipts and appointment slips together.
2. Submitting the wrong type of health insurance
Not all insurance plans meet the requirements for the Permesso. Travel insurance, for example, is usually not accepted.
How to avoid it:
Use a policy that clearly states full medical coverage in Italy for the duration of your intended stay. Double check before submitting your application if you’re not sure your plan qualifies.
3. Missing or incomplete copies of documents
Italian offices rely heavily on printed copies. If even one page is missing (from your passport, visa, housing contract, or receipts) your application may be delayed.
How to avoid it:
Create a digital folder on your phone or computer with scanned copies of everything. It’s also useful to carry a small set of printed copies when visiting any office.
4. Issues with housing contracts
Sometimes contracts lack details required for administrative procedures, such as the landlord’s identification, the property’s registration number, or correct dates.
How to avoid it:
Review the contract carefully and make sure all pages are signed. Check that your address, the landlord’s information, and the registration details are complete and accurate.
5. Incomplete Permesso kits
Students often miss signatures, skip boxes, or misunderstand certain sections of the forms, which can slow down the process.
How to avoid it:
Take your time filling out the kit. If something isn’t clear, ask someone familiar with the process to review it before submission.
6. Relying on outdated online information
Procedures can differ between offices, and updates aren’t always published online. Advice from forums or old posts may no longer apply.
How to avoid it:
Whenever possible, verify instructions with updated local sources or someone who works with these procedures regularly.
Why these mistakes are so common
Most issues arise simply because instructions are unclear, documentation is in Italian, and each office may handle things slightly differently. When you combine that with the stress of moving to a new country, it’s easy to miss a step or misunderstand a requirement.
How The Nest can support you
Our team helps simplify the entire process. We check that your documents are complete, assist with preparing your forms, guide you through the submission steps, and help you book the necessary appointments. The goal is to make these administrative tasks more manageable so you can focus on settling into life in Milan with confidence.
If you’d like a hand with any of your documents, feel free to reach out! Our team of local and international professionals is always here to guide you.
