For family members, deciding between a Residence Card and a Residence Permit can significantly impact their daily experiences and future in Italy. We grasp the gravity of such a decision and aim to guide you in making the most informed choice for your family.
The “Carta di Soggiorno” – A Simplified Stay for Families
The Carta di Soggiorno, or Residence Card, acts as a five-year pass, letting family members of Italian and EU citizens fully immerse in Italy’s beauty. Here’s the lowdown:
- Eligibility: Its reach is broad. Beyond the spouse, children up to 21, or parents of the Italian/EU citizen, it also includes the parents and children of the non-Italian/EU spouse
- Application Process: Crafted for ease, the application fee is just € 47. Though the law indicates a 30-day processing timeframe, occasional administrative delays can occur. It’s prudent to plan for a possible extension
- The Freedom Factor: The Carta di Soggiorno ensures you can enjoy Italy uninterrupted, without the recurring hassle of renewals, for a solid five years
- Income Requirement: To secure a Residence Card, applicants need to show an income that assures self-sufficiency. The law doesn’t pinpoint an exact figure, but typically, a combined income of around €2,000 a month for two people is the benchmark.
- For Parents: The journey to a Residence Card for parents and grandparents has a few twists. They need to provide documentation proving financial support from the Italian citizen for at least a year. This often leads them to the “Permesso di Soggiorno” initially. But after this year, transitioning to a Residence Card is achievable with an Italian income report confirming their financial dependence on their child or grandchild in Italy.
The “Permesso di Soggiorno” – Who’s It For?
The “Permesso di Soggiorno” is tailored for family members of both Italian and non-EU citizens residing in Italy. Yet, it’s meant for specific family members:
- Spouse of the Italian citizen
- Children of the Italian citizen (up to 18 years old)
- Parents of the Italian citizen
- Grandparents of the Italian citizen
- Grandchildren of the Italian citizen
Note: Siblings of the Italian citizen can also opt for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) but cannot acquire a residence card (Carta di Soggiorno).
However, the “Permesso di Soggiorno” notably excludes:
- Children aged 18 to 21
- Parents and children of the spouse of the Italian citizen.
These family members typically gravitate towards the Carta di Soggiorno.
Upside: A shining benefit of the “Permesso di Soggiorno” is the absence of any income requirement for family members of Italian citizens. The law values the unity of Italian families in their home country, without monetary constraints.
Application Process: This journey demands patience. Whether you’re obtaining or renewing this permit, the timeline can stretch for several months. With a heftier price tag of €110.46 for each application, renewals also require liaising with local municipal and healthcare entities.
How Do They Differ?
At their core, both documents encapsulate the rights and duties that families owe to Italian officials. However, the Carta di Soggiorno streamlines real-world dealings, cutting down on bureaucracy. Being the law’s preferred document for those related to Italian/EU citizens, it facilitates smoother access to regional and municipal benefits like public healthcare and social aid.
Navigating Italy’s residency avenues can feel like traversing a maze. Yet, the distinction between the Residence Card and the Residence Permit is more than mere paperwork—it’s about forging a comfortable life in Italy’s picturesque backdrop.
Here’s an insider tip:
If your application doesn’t match one permit’s criteria, the Questura (the overseeing immigration police) is legally bound to suggest an alternative that fits your profile, as mandated by Article 5, Section 9 of the Italian Aliens Act (Decreto Legislativo of 25 July 1998 no. 286). Knowledge isn’t just power—it’s the key to unlocking opportunities.
Know your rights as a family member
Residency for family members depends on the Italian citizen for their validity. That is true for both a residence card and a residence permit. Should the Italian citizen leave Italy, divorce the spouse, or die, the family member can lose the residence permit (although there are some safeguards).
There is a possibility to obtain an independent residence permit: in case the family member becomes financially independent (e.g. through employment or business), s/he can obtain an independent residence permit for work/business. You may read here more about the options and safeguards for family members.
Would you like to know more?
Click here and let me send you more information about the rights of family members of Italian citizens.
