Direct answer: under Article 5(2) TUI, the general rule is to apply to the Questore within eight working days of entry, subject to special routes. Identify the visa reason, check whether the postal kit or Questura applies, prepare documents and keep the receipt. If the delay is documented, ask the office for instructions before filing. Sources: Normattiva Article 5 and Portale Immigrazione; checked 24/10/2026.
Who this applies to: Anyone entering with a national visa who must start the first permit process within the entry-related deadline.
Practical steps: 1) check the national visa purpose and entry date in your passport; 2) prepare the kit, passport, visa, contract or nulla osta and housing proof; 3) file the first permit request within eight working days of entry unless the procedure sets another deadline; 4) keep the receipt and fingerprint appointment.
Documents to keep: passport, visa, nulla osta where required, contract or enrolment, accommodation, tax code and form.
Verifiable timing and costs: The general Article 5(2) rule is eight working days after entry; route and fees depend on the permit.
Exceptions and special cases: Some entries use ALI, postal kit, Questura or declaration of presence; verify the route.
If the procedure stalls: If the deadline has passed, submit available evidence and request written instructions explaining the delay.
Practical example: A worker entering with a national visa follows the nulla osta route and keeps receipt and appointment.