The Italian government has recently announced new changes for international students applying for long-term (D Vsa). 

In order for their fingerprints to be taken, applicants will need to make and keep individual appointments at Italian consulates starting on January 10, 2025.

Schengen.News reports that this policy change eliminates the batch processing option that was previously used to expedite visa applications, adding to the administrative burden on consulates and making the procedure more difficult, particularly for students.

Concerns About Increased Costs and Delays

The additional expenses and stress that the new policy will put on students, especially those who are traveling considerable distances for consular appointments, are concerns raised by Jill Allen Murray, Deputy Executive Director of Public Policy at NAFSA.

Given that the number of American students choosing Italy has risen by 37% in the last 12 months, Melissa Torres, CEO of the Forum on Education Abroad, has issued a warning that these developments may have an impact on Italy's attractiveness as a study abroad destination.

In response, several U.S.-based study abroad providers are thinking of shortening program durations because the additional financial and administrative strains may deter students from choosing semester-long programs.

Effects on Iranian and Afghan Students

International students may face more difficulties as a result of the new visa procedure, especially those from nations like Iran and Afghanistan. About 1,000 Iranian students are still awaiting answers to their protests against lengthy visa processing waits.

In a similar scenario, more than 150 Afghan students some of whom have been waiting since July need to travel to Pakistan or Iran in order to submit their visa applications.

International students may become more irate as a result of these new regulations, which could deter them from selecting Italy and increase the financial and administrative strain on both study abroad providers and students.