The residence permit for scientific research (to be asked at the Post Offices by filling out Form 209 within 8 days from the researcher in Italy), is issued under the Testo Unico sull’Immigrazione (the Italian law on immigration) for the duration of the research program and allows carrying out the activity specified in the “Convenzione di Accoglienza” in forms of employment, self-employment and training grants for research.

In case of extension of the research program, the residence permit is renewed for a period equal to the extension, upon presentation of the “Convenzione di Accoglienza”.
Pending the issuance of residence permit is still permitted to do research work.

A stranger admitted as a researcher in European Union countries can enter Italy without a visa to continue the work already begun in the other State. For stays up to 3 months the residence permit is not required and the nulla osta is replaced by a communication to the Prefecture Service within 8 days from the entrance in Italy. The communication is accompanied by a certified copy of the Convenzione di Accoglienza agreed upon, which involves a period of research in Italy, the availability of financial resources and health insurance valid for the period of stay in Italy, together with a statement of the Institute at which the research activity takes place. For periods exceeding three months, the stay depends on the drawing up of the Convenzione di Accoglienza with a research institute.

The procedure also applies to the researcher regularly resident in Italy for other reasons (other than asylum or temporary protection). In this case the researcher is given a permit to stay free of visa. Once submitted the application for residence permit, the Post Office shall immediately issue a receipt with the date to convene at one of the Police Headquarters. On that occasion, photo and fingerprint of the researcher will be taken, and he/she will submit all relevant documentation included in the original application for residence permit together with 4 passport size photographs.