In Italy, the EC residence permit for long-term residents has effectively replaced the residence card.

Since 1 April 2007, the residence permit has been the residence permit issued to non-EU foreigners who are family members of EU citizens (and Italians) residing in Italy and who meet the requirements set out in Legislative Decree 06/02/2007, n. 30, art. 10 .

The long-term EC residence permit can be requested by non-EU citizens who have held a valid residence permit for at least five years, demonstrating availability of an income and suitable accommodation ( Legislative Decree 25/07/1998, n. 286, art. 9 ).

The EC residence permit for long-term residents:

• it is permanent
• It is valid as a personal identification document for 5 years
• its release is subject to passing an Italian language test.