Help conserve a medieval castle in Umbria. Do general maintenance near Rome. Work on boats and enjoy the beauty of Lake Como. With opportunities like these, we understand why Italy’s volunteer visa appeals to so many visitors.
Whether you’re a self-employed digital nomad or an adventure-seeker ready to do good, Remitly’s step-by-step guide will help you get a volunteering visa in Italy.
What is the Italian Volunteering Visa?
The Italian visa for volunteers is a temporary residence permit for those living outside the European Union and Schengen Area. This type of visa allows non-EU citizens between the ages of 25 and 35 to volunteer in Italy for up to one year. In certain cases, you may even be eligible for a six-month extension from Italian authorities.
On the other hand, EU/EEA citizens can stay in Italy for up to three months without requiring a visa. Anyone from the Schengen Area is exempt, with free movement guaranteed through the Schengen visa. You can check Schengen countries and your eligibility here.
To stay longer, register with the local Italian government authority. However, you can’t gain Italian citizenship with this type of visa.
What are the visa requirements for volunteering in Italy?
The most important requirement for Italy’s volunteering visa is a formal written agreement between you and an authorized sponsor. According to the EU Immigration Portal, applicants can partner with specific organizations for this process, such as:
- religious bodies,
- recognized non-governmental organizations, or
- registered associations of social utility.
Italy has several national volunteer programs, including the following:
- Caritas Italiana: This Catholic organization coordinates various immigration, poverty alleviation, and emergency relief projects.
- Save the Children Italy: As part of the global Save the Children network, the Italian agency focuses on child protection, education, and emergency aid response.
- Legambiente: This environmental association dedicates itself to conservation and education, with several active projects across Italy.
You can find other opportunities with religious bodies or associations in the Charity Sector Public Registry (Registro Unico del Terzo Settore).
What documents do I need for the Italian Volunteering Visa?
Once you have a sponsor, they should present a notarized letter to the appropriate immigration officials in their area. Since this is not an Italian work visa or employment contract, ensure it describes the following:
- Your volunteer role
- Expected length of service
- Hourly schedule
- Details on food and lodging
Most sponsors supply meals and accommodations in exchange for a certain number of hours of voluntary service. The Italian government also requires sponsors to provide proper healthcare insurance coverage for project-related incidents during your stay.
Here are the required documents to apply for an Italian volunteering visa:
- A notarized contract between you and a qualifying sponsoring organization
- Your visa application form, duly filled and completed
- A valid passport
- Proof of health insurance
Your local Italian embassy or consulate may also request a certified background check, information on family members, proof of financial means, or specific travel insurance. Verify all the important requirements before starting the application process.
How do I apply to volunteer in Italy?
The first step is for the sponsor organization in Italy to apply for authorization—or Nulla Osta—at their local immigration office. If approved, authorities will send their confirmation electronically to the Italian embassy or consulate responsible for issuing your volunteering visa within 90 days.
Here’s a simple but complete breakdown of the application process:
- Step 1: Apply for and collect the Nulla Osta through your sponsoring organization. This certificate is valid for six months after the issuing date.
- Step 2: Go to the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country and fill out the visa application form. You can find your nearest visa application center on the official website of Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
- Step 3: You’ll receive your volunteering visa in at least 90 days if approved. You can travel to Italy once you have the visa stamp on your passport.
- Step 4: Declare yourself within eight days of arrival at the nearest police headquarters. Italian authorities will register your fingerprints and issue you a temporary Italian residency permit (permesso di soggiorno). Visit the Department for Civil Liberties and Immigration, which is part of the Ministry of the Interior, to complete this procedure.
What types of volunteer projects are available in Italy?
Italy has numerous opportunities for volunteers. Short-term projects ranging from teaching English to childcare, elderly care, and wilderness conservation offer plenty of options.
Suppose you’re looking for something more long-term to qualify for your Italian volunteering visa. Then, research and find a qualifying religious, non-profit, or social agency. Community programs like the National Youth Agency (Agenzia Italiana per la Gioventù) may have some openings.
What are the benefits of volunteering in Italy?
Italy is an ideal place to visit and volunteer in terms of genuine cultural immersion, language learning, personal growth, and networking opportunities. Here are a few reasons why you should consider volunteering here:
- It is educational. Italian history spans over 3,000 years. No matter where you go, rich culture, ancient tradition, and exciting history await. From the ruins of Pompeii to the sparkling Amalfi Coast, every street has a story to tell. And if you find long-lost relatives, you may even be eligible for Italian dual citizenship!
- Regional variety. Each region of Italy is unique. Do you like hiking in the mountains? Head to Basilicata for those outdoor endorphins. Are you fascinated with Renaissance art? If so, Tuscany is a must-see.
- Well-connected. Enjoy regular high-speed trains between cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples. There are plenty of bus options and ridesharing apps too, which are more affordable options. You’ll have quick access to other EU member states with your Italy visa in hand.
- Culinary heaven. Undoubtedly, you’ll be hungry after a long day of volunteering in Italy. Expect delicious food everywhere you go, regardless of your project location. Snack on authentic pesto and focaccia while exploring Cinque Terre, or see the birthplace of pizza in Naples. Don’t forget to try the gelato, pasta, cheese, and pastries too!
FAQ
What is the Italian Volunteering Visa?
The Italian volunteering visa allows citizens from non-European countries to volunteer in Italy for up to 18 months. You can work with certified non-governmental agencies, religious bodies, or other qualifying social organizations.
How do I apply for a Volunteer Visa in Italy?
Gather all the required documents, including the visa application form, a valid passport, and a letter from your sponsor with health insurance covered. Your local Italian consulate or embassy may also require a background check, proof of funds, and additional travel insurance as part of the application process.
Can I become an Italian citizen or get a work permit with a Volunteering Visa?
Unfortunately, you can’t convert your volunteering visa into Italian citizenship, permanent residency, a work permit, or a national visa.
Do I need a visa to visit Italy?
You don’t require a visa to visit Italy if you’re an EU/EEA citizen or live within the Schengen Area. For example, Canadian visitors and Americans from the USA can tour the country on a short-term tourist visa for up to 90 days. However, non-EU citizens must apply for an appropriate type of visa that fits their needs.
How long does the Italian Volunteering Visa take to process?
If you live outside Europe, the processing time for your visa application will take around 90 days.