Finding accommodation

In short

• For the visa you must show suitable accommodation in Italy. An application for a student residence alone is not enough.
• Student residences are run by the regional DSU agencies and some universities. Places are limited, and you apply through the yearly call.
• A rental contract must be registered with the Agenzia delle Entrate within 30 days of signing.
• Whoever hosts you or rents you a room must tell the police within 48 hours (dichiarazione di ospitalità).
• Never pay before you have seen the room (in person or by video call) and the contract.

Where to look

1. Your region’s DSU agency: student residences, often linked to the DSU scholarship. See the scholarships guide.
2. Your university’s housing office: many have lists of rooms or partner residences.
3. Private rooms: websites, student groups and agencies. Prices depend a lot on the city and the area.

For your first weeks, a hotel or short stay gives you time to visit rooms in person.

Your contract

• Ask for a written contract and check how long it lasts, the deposit, and what the rent includes (bills, internet).
• The contract must be registered within 30 days. Ask the landlord for proof of registration: you may need it for your residence permit.
• The owner must send the hospitality declaration to the police within 48 hours. Keep a copy.

Avoiding scams

• Do not send money by transfer or money service to someone you have not met, for a room you have not seen.
• Be careful with prices much lower than others in the same area, and with owners who are “abroad” and cannot show the room.
• Check that the person is the owner or a real agency, and pay the deposit only with a signed contract.
• If in doubt, ask your university’s housing office.

This site gives general information only. Rules change often, so always check the official sources.