The Integration agreement (in Italian, Accordo di Integrazione) is a “contract” between the foreigner and the Italian State. It regulates the immigration point-based system. Foreigners are accredited with points based on their level of integration in Italian society.
Who must sign the “Accordo di Integrazione”?
Any foreigners over 16 years of age moving to Italy and applying for a residence permit of at least 1 year.
Foreigners obligations
- A2 level of Knowledge in Italian language (slightly higher than the basic level);
- Sufficient knowledge of the fundamental principles of Italian law and public administration;
- Basic knowledge of Italian public life (social service, schooling, tax system, healthcare, etc.);
- Compliance with work and tax obligations;
- Foreigners must guarantee that children of a school age attend compulsory education;
- Agree with the Charter of Citizenship and Integration Values.
How many points do I have to reach?
At least 30, plus A2 level of Knowledge in Italian language.
How much time do I have to comply?
2 years, that can be extended for a further year (3 years in total).
What happens if after 3 years I haven’t reached 30 points?
If after 3 years the number of points is lower than 30, equal to or lower than zero the agreement is considered partially unfulfilled or unfulfilled. Such condition may lead, under certain conditions, to residence permit withdrawal or rejection of renewal and deportation.
Can the points obtained be lost?
Yes. Credits can be lost in case of criminal conviction, administrative fines, noncompliance with tax obligations etc.
Can the agreement be temporarily suspended?
Yes, only for force majeure/justified reasons (serious illness, work, study and training obligations).
How can I get an A2 language level attestation?
Only the following courses can issue the required attestation valid for integration agreement purposes
- Courses organized by the public training institutes called “CPIA” (Centri Provinciali per l’Istruzione gli Adulti)
- Courses organized an institute recognized by the ministry of external affairs and the ministry of education: the University of Rome Tre, the University of Perugia for Foreigners, the University of Siena for Foreigners, Società’ Dante Alighieri. The certification issued are, respectively:
- A2 Certification of Italian as foreign language L2: Roma 3 University (provides an exemption of Italian language test only; authorities are evaluating if such attestation may also exempt foreigners from the test on civic culture, civil life in Italy;
- CELI1 issued by the CVLC: language certification institute of University for Foreigners of Perugia (provides an exemption of Italian language test only);
- CILS A2 issued by the CILSA: language certification institute of University for foreigners of Siena) (provides an exemption of Italian language test only);
- A2 PLIDA CERTIFICATION Diploma of knowledge of the Italian language: Dante Alighieri Society (provides exemption of Italian language test only; authorities are evaluating if such attestation may also exempt foreigners from test on civic culture, civil life in Italy).
Interestingly to know, foreigners who have fulfilled the Integration agreement do not have to comply with the language requirement (B1 level) when applying for Italian citizenship.
