Non-EU Document Guide 2026
If you’re moving to Milan to study, one of the first challenges is understanding which documents you need to live legally in Italy. The Italian bureaucracy can feel overwhelming, especially for international students arriving for the first time.
This guide breaks down the five essential documents required for international students in Milan, when you need them, and how to stay organized!
1. Codice Fiscale: The First Document Every Student Needs in Italy
The Codice Fiscale is your Italian tax identification number and it’s required for almost everything.
You’ll need it to:
sign a housing contract
open a bank account
buy a SIM card
register for healthcare
complete university paperwork
Because it unlocks most other processes: it’s one of the first documents to request when moving to Italy.
2. Permesso di Soggiorno: Your Official Residence Permit in Italy
If you’re staying in Italy for more than 90 days, you must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno. This is your official residence permit and proves your legal stay in Italy.
Important: you must apply within 8 days of arriving in the country.
This is one of the most important documents for international students in Milan, and understanding the timeline helps avoid delays.
3. Housing Contract: Proof of Address in Milan
Your housing contract is essential for several registrations and administrative steps.
A valid contract should list:
your full address
your landlord’s details
the start and end date of the contract
your personal information
registration in Agenzia delle Entrate
You’ll need this document for procedures like Residenza and Tessera Sanitaria.
4. Residenza (Anagrafe): Registering Your Address in Milan
Registering your address with the Anagrafe is called Residenza.
Many international students complete this step once they’ve settled into their accommodation.
Why it matters:
It helps with long-term administrative needs
It may be required for future renewals or healthcare access
It officially registers you as living in Milan
It’s not urgent during your first days, but it becomes important during your first months.
5. Tessera Sanitaria: Accessing Public Healthcare in Italy
The Tessera Sanitaria (Italian health card) gives you access to the national healthcare system (SSN). To request it, you typically need:
a valid housing contract
health insurance
your Permesso di Soggiorno application receipt
With the Tessera Sanitaria, you can register with a general practitioner and receive medical care during your time in Italy.
When Do You Need Each Document? (Simple Timeline for Students)
Before arrival:
Visa
Valid health insurance
First week in Italy:
Codice Fiscale
Permesso di Soggiorno application (within 8 days)
First month:
Registered Rental Contract finalized
Residenza registration (optional but recommended)
Tessera Sanitaria
How to Stay Organized With Italian Bureaucracy
To make the process easier:
Keep digital scans of all documents
Save every receipt and appointment sheet
Use the same address consistently across forms
Don’t rely on outdated online info, Italian offices may follow different procedures
Create a dedicated folder for all your Italy paperwork
How The Nest Can Help International Students in Milan
The Nest assists international students with all the essential documents required to live in Italy: Codice Fiscale, Permesso di Soggiorno, Residenza, Tessera Sanitaria, and more.
We help by checking your documents, preparing forms, booking appointments, and guiding you step by step through each process.
You don’t need to face the Italian bureaucracy alone. Our International team is here to support you!
