Permit for Minor assistance ("Article 31")

What is this permit?

The residence permit for assistance of a minor is granted when the Juvenile Court allows the entry or stay in Italy of a relative of a foreign minor for serious reasons related to the child's growth and well-being.

How long does this permit last?

The duration is established by the Juvenile Court and is normally at least one year. The permit is renewable.

What are the conditions to obtain it?

The fundamental requirements for this permit are:

• The minor must be present in Italian territory
• The applicant must be a relative of the minor (normally a parent)
• It is necessary to demonstrate that without the relative the minor would suffer greatly, both emotionally and physically, especially if the child is young
• The relative must provide documentation showing the family relationship with the minor
• documents proving the minor's journey (school, activities, etc.).

Where do you apply for this permit?

The application must be made to the Juvenile Court in the area where the minor lives. It is not mandatory to have a lawyer's assistance: you can file the appeal independently even though legal assistance is recommended.

ATTENTION: The court case can last months or years and the outcome is uncertain. While waiting for the Court's decision you will not have a provisional residence permit.

After obtaining the document from the Court, relatives must request the residence permit from the Police Headquarters (Questura) in the area where they live. The permit is in electronic format.

What documents do I need to request it?

When filing the application with the Juvenile Court, you will need to bring:

• Appeal petition (a template is available)
• Revenue stamp of 27,00 €
• Birth certificate of the minor
• Identity documents of the requesting family member and the minor
• Any medical certificates, if they attest to health issues related to the minor

What can I do with this residence permit?

With this permit you can:

• Work with a regular contract (self-employment or employed work)
• Register with the National Health Service (NHS-SSN) and have a general practitioner
• Enroll in school, a professional course, or university
• Travel freely in Italy and Schengen countries (for short stays up to 3 months) with passport

And when does the permit expire?

You can renew it or convert it to another permit

ATTENTION: To renew this permit you must file a new case at the Juvenile Court. It cannot be renewed at Police Headquarters (Questura) or with postal kit.

For conversion, this permit can be changed to:

• Residence permit for work (self-employment or employed work)
• EU permit for long-term residents after 5 years of regular residence in Italy

📋 Required documents

Check off the documents you've already prepared. Your progress is saved automatically.