How long can I stay in Italy after my masters to look for a job?
After a masters, Italy lets you stay back for up to 12 months on the job seeking permit, known as the Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione. The permit is not renewable, but it converts into a work permit once you find a job.
After your masters, you can stay in Italy for up to 12 months on the job seeking permit, called the Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione. The permit cannot be renewed, but it converts into a work permit as soon as you secure a job. That makes the move from student to employee fairly smooth.
Job seeking permit at a glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Permit name | Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione |
| Maximum stay | Up to 12 months |
| Renewable? | No |
| After you get a job | Converts into a work permit |
| Where it is valid | Valid in Italy; the residence permit also allows short Schengen travel of up to 90 days in 180 |
Improving your job search
- Studying in a city with strong industry presence, such as Milan or Turin, can improve your chances.
- Politecnico di Milano reports that around 99 percent of its masters graduates are employed within a year of finishing.
- Internships and projects during your course help you build local industry contacts.
- Working in another EU country generally needs that country's own immigration process.
My Advice
Start networking and applying for internships while you are still studying, because the 12 months go quickly. Treat any plan to work outside Italy as a separate visa step and do not assume your Italian permit covers it.
How long can you stay and work after an Italy master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
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