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EU citizens only need to show a valid passport or identity card to enter Italy, as no visa is necessary. However, within 8 days of arrival, all visitors must register with the local police authority ('Questura'), fill in forms declaring they plan to stay, and obtain from them a residence permit ('permesso di soggiorno'), which makes their stay in the country legal - these are essential for anyone staying more than 3 months. To succeed in obtaining the permit, you will need:

- A completed application form
- Photocopies of the first page in your passport (and visa, if you have one)
- 3 passport photos
- Proof of health insurance (to cover accidents, illness, maternity)
- Proof of financial security
- A 'marca da bollo' costing 11 Euro - buy one at a newsagent

The permit is specifically for the area where you live. You then need to register with the Statistics Bureau, or 'Anagrafe'.

For individuals working in Italy, issue of the residence permit is straightforward. Students or the unemployed will need to prove they have enough funds not to be a burden on the state's social security or sickness insurance schemes.

Once established in your new home, you can exchange your permit for a full residence certificate ('Certificato di Residenza').