Frequently Asked Questions

When are we going to sign the contracts?

The contract will be signed in person upon your arrival in September. It outlines your responsibilities regarding the provided kit and any other devices you may have access to, as well as the rules for obtaining the scholarship. Additionally, it covers the regulations related to your presence in the facilities during activities, ensuring a safe and productive experience on our campus.

Is the Academy a remote or in-person experience?

The Academy offers an in-person learning experience. Classes will be held at the Apple Developer Academy, University of Naples Federico II, located at the San Giovanni a Teduccio Campus, Corso Nicolangelo Protopisani 70, Naples, Italy. Attendance is mandatory for all in-person classes, and participants must meet the minimum attendance requirement of 80% of the scheduled hours.

How do I get to the Apple Developer Academy?

The easiest way to reach the campus is by taking Metropolitan Train Line 2 and alighting at “Napoli San Giovanni Barra,” or by boarding any regional train heading south to Salerno from Pozzuoli, Campi Flegrei, or Stazione Centrale. Additionally, two tram lines serve the area: Line 4 from Piazza Municipio and Line 2 from Poggioreale/Corso Garibaldi, both stopping within 200 meters of the campus. The closest bus to the Academy is No. 154, departing from the city center.

Where and how do I receive the equipment?

Equipment will be loaned to students at the start of the academic year upon their arrival at the Academy. Students are expected to care for the devices assigned to them. Your student kit will include an iPhone and a MacBook. This year, kit distribution and setup sessions are scheduled for September 29 and 30, with students invited to select from available time slots. Additionally, throughout the academic year, there will be opportunities to borrow other test equipment from our centralized loan pool.

How will the Academy communicate important information?

Official and administrative updates will be communicated via email (developeracademy@unina.it) or the official website (www.developeracademy.unina.it), or both. Specific communication channels will be established for admitted students during the pre-academy period to provide practical details about the program.

How can I resolve all my bureaucratic issues before arriving and while I’m in Italy?

Being an international student can be both exciting and challenging. That’s why the International Welcome Desk (IWD) exists: to provide students with the support they need during this transition. The IWD is here to assist you with essential administrative and logistical matters, helping you settle in and feel at home in Naples.

🔗 You can now request IWD services directly through the International Welcome Desk app, available on the App Store (https://www.apple.com/it/search/international-welcome-desk?src=globalnav) and Google Play (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.internationalwelcomedesk.iwd&hl=it).

You can find it by searching “International Welcome Desk”.

International Welcome Desk (IWD) – University of Naples Federico II

Services Provided by the IWD:

Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale) application
Request and renewal of residence permit
Health care support
Accommodation service
Other information
Opening a bank account

I am a non-EU student. Will I be able to get a VISA?

In order to obtain your VISA, you will need to have a signed certificate of admission as proof of enrollment in our program. The issuance of a student visa (Type D – multiple entry) for non-EU citizens requires an early request to the relevant Italian Consulate, both for procedural guidance and appointment scheduling. We strongly recommend contacting the consular office well in advance to understand the specific requirements and processing times. To be eligible for a visa, applicants must be at least 18 years old before the start of the program and their arrival in Italy. Additionally, all candidates must complete the Universitaly portal registration as part of the pre-enrollment process, which is essential for validating admission prerequisites. The approximate cost of the visa application is €50, excluding any additional service fees charged by the consulate. Processing times typically range from 60 to 90 days, so it is crucial to apply as early as possible to avoid delays in enrollment and travel arrangements.

How can I get a proof of accommodation for VISA purposes?

Italian Consulates require proof of accommodation as part of the VISA application process. You have the option to either book an accommodation on your own, such as a hotel/hostel, or obtain an accommodation certificate through the IWD Accommodation Services. If you choose to use IWD services, you can request the certificate through the International Welcome Desk App.

What is the Tax Code (Codice Fiscale) and How to Apply for it?

The Codice Fiscale (Italian Tax Code) is a 16-character alphanumeric code uniquely assigned to each individual in Italy. It is an essential identification tool used in various administrative, financial, and legal procedures, such as:

Signing a rental contract for accommodation.
Opening a bank account and carrying out financial transactions.
Enrolling in the National Health Service (SSN) and obtaining a health card.
Completing any official paperwork related to taxation, employment, or public services.

How to Apply for the Codice Fiscale?

Non-Italian residents can obtain a Codice Fiscale through:

Italian Diplomatic Representations (Embassy/Consulate) – You can apply for it before arriving in Italy.
Via the International Welcome Desk app – After registering and uploading the required documents (such as your passport and university admission letter), your profile will be verified. Once confirmed, you’ll be able to submit your tax code request directly through the app uploading additional documents such as your visa and a photo of your signature.

The IWD team will review your submission and forward it to the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency). You will be notified once your tax code is ready, and you’ll be able to download it directly from the app.

⚠ Please note: You cannot apply for the tax code until your profile has been confirmed in the app. Always check your app status.

How to apply for the Residence Permit?

If you are a non-EU student and have a D-Type VISA FOR STUDY, you must apply for a residence permit within 8 working days of arrival in Italy.

You can now request assistance for this process directly through the International Welcome Desk app, by uploading the required documents and booking an appointment with the IWD team.
Documents include:

Passport
Visa
University admission letter

The IWD will provide personalized support via the app, including step-by-step instructions and appointment scheduling.

How can I open a Bank Account?

In order to open a bank account in Italy, students must provide the following documents:

Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale)
Proof of accommodation (required for EU students)

For non-EU students:

Entry visa
Residence permit application receipt
Some banks may also require the issued residence permit before allowing account activation.

Physical Banks in Italy

If you prefer a traditional (physical) bank, the following are among the most popular options:

Intesa Sanpaolo – Banco di Napoli Spa, Via Toledo, 396, 80132 Napoli
A special desk for Academy students is being arranged at a nearby branch for easier account opening.
Unicredit – Piazza Giovanni Bovio, 22, Napoli
Poste Italiane (Postepay Card Option) – Corso S. Giovanni a Teduccio, 285, 80146 Napoli

Virtual Banks

For students looking for a more flexible and efficient banking solution, virtual banks can be an excellent alternative. Unlike traditional banks, they often provide services in multiple languages and have more streamlined processes for international students. Some options include:

Revolut – A digital banking service offering multi-currency accounts and international transfers with ease.
N26 – A widely used mobile bank that allows account management from anywhere in Europe.

Key Distinction: While physical banks may have limited English-speaking support, virtual banks often provide multilingual assistance and more user-friendly online banking options. In order to have support in opening a bank account, you can refer to the International Welcome Desk that will assist you in choosing the best option according to your needs.

To receive support in opening a bank account, you can now submit a request directly through the International Welcome Desk app.
The IWD will help you evaluate the best option based on your needs and guide you through the documentation and application process.

How can I find accommodation?

The IWD Accommodation Service ensures secure housing that meets legal standards. It includes:

Market Offer Survey: Identifies suitable accommodations through a detailed market survey.
Real Estate Information Verification: Verifies housing conditions and suggests improvements.
Front Office and Language Assistance: Provides immediate support for housing inquiries, assisting with both online and offline searches, plus language consultancy.
Legal Assistance for House Contracts Registration.
Short Term Accommodations: Offers information on hotels and other short-term options at discounted rates.

If you need help securing long-term or short-term accommodation, you can contact the IWD or submit a request directly through the International Welcome Desk app.
The app offers support for:

Accommodation certificate requests for visa purposes
Legal assistance with rental contracts
Verified listings and document upload
Request tracking and communication with the IWD team

Dedicated Online Booking Portal: WWW.STUDENTSACCOMODATION.IT

The portal allows users to easily enter their personal details and preferences, whether they are searching for a single accommodation or for a group of people who already know each other. All available accommodations listed on the platform are verified and meet high-quality standards, ensuring that users can make well-informed decisions even without viewing the property in person. Once a choice is made, users can secure their accommodation by paying the first month’s rent.

Please Note
If you’re unable to find accommodation through the IWD portal, we recommend using trusted search engines like idealista.it or immobiliare.it, or working with a recognized real estate agency. We strongly advise against using Facebook groups, Instagram, or WhatsApp groups, as these platforms are often linked to scams. Always avoid making advance payments to bank accounts without consulting the IWD first.

How can I access IWD services?

You can access International Welcome Desk services through International Welcome Desk App

Now available for download from the App Store and Google Play.
After registration, you can upload documents, request services (such as tax code, accommodation, residence permit), and monitor the status of your requests directly within the app.

Safety Tips

Avoid small betting tables on the streets and people trying to sell you a computer, tablet, or smartphone for around €50—they will give you a brick in the original box! Some areas may have pickpockets or potential thieves, especially on buses. Avoid showing your gadgets like phones or watches. Try not to look disoriented. Never use unlicensed taxis, as they tend to be more expensive. Always be extra cautious when crossing streets—drivers in Naples have their own (often dangerous) rules!

Wishing You an Amazing Time in Naples!

We hope you enjoy your stay here in Napoli and all the wonderful experiences that it offers. Explore the historical center, visit castles and the breathtaking sea (but remember, don’t swim near the port!). Discover the hidden gems of Posillipo and its stunning beaches, taste the world-famous pizza, enjoy the rich aroma of coffee, and indulge in delicious pastries. There’s no shortage of experiences waiting for you!

Enjoy your stay and make unforgettable memories!