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Education in Italy
Children in Italy have a right to school, and adults can usually access language or integration courses. Contact the municipality early once you have an address.
Schools and language support in Italy
Register with the SSN: Public healthcare via ASL. Free for employed, students, family; ~€2 000/yr voluntary otherwise. Go to your ASL — Bring permesso, codice fiscale, residenza. Choose a medico di base (GP). Tessera sanitaria — Arrives by post. Free GP + hospital, small co-pay for specialists. Free Italian classes (CPIA): State adult schools offer free A1–B2 Italian + civic modules. Enroll at CPIA — Search '[città] CPIA'. Free with permesso; also prepares for the A2 test needed for long-stay permits.
Enrolling children
Bring passports or ID, birth certificates, previous school documents, vaccination records if available, and proof of address. If documents are missing, still contact the school or municipality — children should not wait at home.
Adult language and integration courses
Learning Italian makes appointments, work and school contact much easier. Ask integration offices, adult education centres, municipalities and NGOs about free or subsidised courses.
Education-related offices
Questura — Ufficio Immigrazione: Permesso di soggiorno, renewals. Agenzia delle Entrate: Codice fiscale, tax. Phone: 800 909 696. Comune (Anagrafe): Residenza, carta d'identità. INPS: Social security, pensions, family benefits. Phone: 803 164.
Frequently asked questions
Can my child start school before all documents are ready in Italy?
Yes, schools and municipalities should help children enter education even while paperwork is being completed.
Which office should I contact first in Italy?
Start with Questura — Ufficio Immigrazione. For broader newcomer help, also check Questura — Ufficio Immigrazione, Agenzia delle Entrate, Comune (Anagrafe).
What language will offices use in Italy?
The main administrative language is Italian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do my children need documents to enrol in school?
Schools must enrol every child. If documents are missing, the municipality helps to sort it out — do not delay.
Can I study for free?
Public universities are free or low-cost for EU citizens and often for other residents after a qualifying period.