Upon arrival in Italy, all international students must prove adequate health coverage. EU citizens and non-EU citizens access healthcare differently.

In Italy, assistance, registration and activation of health coverage are provided by ASL (Aziende Sanitarie Locali).

EU citizens

EU citizens can access medical services in Italy and all EU countries with their European Health Insurance Card (or E106 form). The EHIC allows free access to general practitioners, hospitals and A&E services (including surgical services). A co-payment is required for specific examinations or specialist visits.

Non-EU citizens

Non-EU citizens must have private health insurance with specific requirements, approved by the Consulate/Embassy issuing the visa. Alternatively, they may choose to register with the Italian National Health Service (Italian acronym SSN) by paying a fee.

The registration fee is to be paid by postal order addressed to: "Amministrazione P.T. - contributo Servizio Sanitario Nazionale", C/C number 370007", inserting the reason for payment in Italian "Iscrizione volontaria al Servizio Sanitario Nazionale" (Voluntary registration with the National Health Service).

Once the payment has been made, you can register with the nearest ASL by presenting the following documents:

• Certificate of residence (or self-certification)
• Valid ID card/passport
• Tax code (codice fiscale)
• University enrolment certificate (or self-certification)

What to do in case of a medical emergency

Call the free number 118 (ambulance) or go to the nearest hospital or "guardia medica" (out-of-hours service doctor). At the A&E, the patient is colour-coded according to the severity of their situation (in order of severity: red, yellow, green, white), which determines the priority with which they will be treated. In the case of a white code, waiting times can be very long.

For minor health problems, it is advisable to contact your GP directly. If necessary, they will refer you to a specialist check-up and provide you with the required documentation. To book an appointment for a specialist examination, call the toll-free number 80 33 33 (CUP - Centro Unico Prenotazione) and tell them which service your GP requires.

Remember always to carry your health/insurance card (tessera/assicurazione sanitaria) and your residence permit.

Outpatient clinics for international citizens

Facilities and services specifically dedicated to international citizens are also available: