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Legal Support

In Italy, the international protection procedure does not mandatorily require a lawyer. However, the law guarantees free legal aid for applicants without sufficient financial resources, especially at the appeal stage against a negative decision. Source: https://help.unhcr.org

Beneficiaries of international protection are entitled to ongoing legal protection regarding residence permits, rights, and family reunification. Source: https://help.unhcr.org

LGBTQI+ migrants may receive legal assistance concerning discrimination or difficulties in asylum, social protection, or family-related matters through the same legal networks assisting other applicants and refugees.
Source: https://help.unhcr.org.

Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: Free access to the international protection procedure. Right to legal information and to legal assistance at every stage of the procedure. Access to legal aid at the expense of the State (without the requirement of regular residence). Procedural guarantees for vulnerable persons, including LGBTQI+ persons, victims of torture and trafficking. Possibility of appealing against the decision of the Territorial Commissions for the Recognition of International Protection before the Civil Court – specialised immigration section. Assistance in CPRs (Repatriation Centres).
  • Refugees: Full access to legal assistance and to state-funded legal aid for family reunification, citizenship applications, document renewals, and access to rights and services, including protection against discrimination. Free legal aid is available subject to income requirements. Refugees are entitled to equal treatment with Italian citizens in many areas pursuant to Article 27 of Legislative Decree No. 251/2007.
  • Migrants: Access to legal assistance for residence permits, work permits, family permits, medical care, special protection, regularisation and procedures relating to the „Decreto Flussi“ (Immigration Quota Decree). Free legal aid if income requirements are met. Assistance in expulsion and repatriation proceedings.
  • Asylum Seekers: Territorial commissions for the recognition of international protection; information via: Ministry of the Interior, (Section: Immigration → International Protection), Police headquarters for residence permits and immigration procedures, (Section: „Foreigners“ → Immigration Office), Courts – Specialised immigration sections; SAI legal helpdesks (Reception and Integration System; CIR (Italian Council for Refugees); ASGI (Association for Juridical Studies on Immigration); ARCIGAY Sicilia, ASTALLI Centres and other associated law firms; UNHCR Italy; Bar Association and legal aid for access to free legal defence before the court is provided for those who do not have financial resources.
  • Refugees: Territorial commissions for the recognition of international protection; information via: Ministry of the Interior, (Section: Immigration → International Protection), Police headquarters for residence permits and immigration procedures, (Section: „Foreigners“ → Immigration Office); SAI legal helpdesks (Reception and Integration System; CIR (Italian Council for Refugees); ASGI (Association for Juridical Studies on Immigration); ARCIGAY Sicilia, ASTALLI Centres and other associated law firms; UNHCR Italy; Bar Association and legal aid for access to free legal defence before the court is provided for those who do not have financial resources.
  • Migrants: Ministry of the Interior, (Section: Immigration → International Protection), Police headquarters for residence permits and immigration procedures, (Section: „Foreigners“ → Immigration Office); SAI legal helpdesks (Reception and Integration System; CIR (Italian Council for Refugees); ASGI (Association for Juridical Studies on Immigration); ARCIGAY Sicilia, ASTALLI Centres and other associated law firms; UNHCR Italy; Bar Association and legal aid for access to free legal defence before the court is provided for those who do not have financial resources. Patronages (INCA, ACLI, etc.)

OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS:

  • Civic associations and NGOs (e.g. Refugee.info Italy): they offer free information, assistance in preparing legal documents and connections with local lawyers or legal clinics (italy.refugee.info).
  • ANOLF (National Association Beyond Borders – CISL): Network of patronage organisations for foreigners and immigrants linked to the CISL trade union, with offices throughout Italy providing assistance with immigration procedures and basic legal aid: https://www.anolf.it
  • Patronato SIAS – immigration helpdesksProvides information and advice on entry procedures, residence permits, family reunification and other procedures for foreigners https://www.patronatosias.it/servizi/
  • ACSE – Comboni Association for Migrants and RefugeesOffers free legal assistance on residence permits, international protection, expulsions, family reunification, labour issues and immigration law: https://www.acsemigranti.org/pagina-assistenza-legale/
  • JumaMap – Map of services for refugees and asylum seekers
    It is not a patronage organisation but a national network of services that includes multilingual legal support and guidance desks and a dedicated toll-free number (800 905 570): https://www.jumamap.it
  • MyLawyer AssociationAssociation based in Sicily (CT) focused on legal assistance, cultural mediation and guidance for applicants for international protection, refugees and immigrants: https://www.associazionemylawyer.it
  • ARCI toll-free number for refugees and asylum seekers – 800 905 570 (guidance, information on asylum procedures and services in the area)

The right to health is guaranteed to everyone, regardless of their legal status, and access to public health services is guaranteed by the National Health Service (SSN). Reporting to the public security authorities for access to care is not permitted (except where reporting is mandatory).

Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: Mandatory registration with the National Health Service (SSN) and to obtain a health card. Registration takes place at the Local Health Authority (ASL) of the area of domicile/residence to have entitled to a general practitioner, specialist visits, vaccinations, hospitalisation and mental health services under the same conditions as Italians. Medical emergencies are provided to everyone, even without documents (unhcr.org). full access to primary care, hospital services, vaccinations, and emergency care.
  • Refugees: Same access as Italian citizens, including specialist, hospital, pharmaceutical and preventive services. They are entitled to compulsory registration with the National Health Service (SSN) under the same conditions as Italian citizens, with full access to health services, including basic, specialist, hospital, pharmaceutical care and prevention programmes.
  • Migrants: Foreign nationals with a residence permit (legal): Pursuant to Article 34 of Legislative Decree 286/1998, registration with the National Health Service (SSN) is compulsory and free of charge for work (employed/self-employed), family reasons, asylum, subsidiary/humanitarian protection, pending adoption/foster care, acquisition of citizenship, or registration with the employment centre. It guarantees the choice of a general practitioner, examinations, hospitalisation and pharmaceutical assistance. Irregular foreigners (STP – Temporarily Present Foreigner): Pursuant to Article 35 of Legislative Decree 286/1998, Access to urgent and essential care, maternity care,   child health care, vaccinations and prophylactic measures; diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. Access is granted by issuing an STP (Temporary Foreign Resident) codeServices are provided without reporting to the authorities, except in cases required by law.
  • Asylum Seekers: local health authorities (ASL) with territorial jurisdiction; the prefectures and the bodies managing reception centres; the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Interior (institutional portals); organisations such as UNHCR Italy; ARCI; Italian Caritas; Italian Red Cross; JumaMap (ARCI/UNHCR portal), a map of services for refugees and asylum seekers throughout Italy (including health, legal and social services). Other NGOs active in the area can provide support in accessing health services, including assistance with registering with the National Health Service, booking appointments, guidance on local services and linguistic and cultural mediation; INTERSOS – Healthcare services and support in Italy provides healthcare, mobile clinics, guidance, support for women and vulnerable groups in various Italian regions.
  • Refugees: Local Health Authorities (ASL) and through regional and national institutional portals. UNHCR Italy; ARCI; Reception and Integration System (SAI); Caritas Italiana; JumaMap (ARCI/UNHCR portal) (national service map for refugees and asylum seekers across Italy, including health, legal and social services); INTERSOS – Health Services and Support in Italy – that provides healthcare assistance, mobile clinics, guidance, and support to women and vulnerable groups in several Italian regions. Other third-sector organisations support beneficiaries of international protection in registering with the SSN, choosing a general practitioner (GP), and accessing specialist services, providing linguistic and cultural mediation where necessary.
  • Migrants: Local Health Authorities (ASL); Ministry of Health; Regions and Municipalities; Patronati and immigration help desks; Civil society organisations — such as: Italian Caritas; Emergency; MEDU – Medici per i Diritti Umani – https://www.mediciperidirittiumani.org; Italian Red Cross; ARCI may provide assistance in accessing healthcare services, support in understanding administrative procedures, and cultural mediation. INTERSOS – Health Services and Support in Italy – provides healthcare assistance, mobile clinics, guidance, and support to women and vulnerable groups in several Italian regions.

In Italy, access to mental health services is available through the National Health Service (SSN). LGBTQI+ asylum seekers, refugees and migrants registered with the SSN can access psychological and psychiatric services upon request from their general practitioner or through the mental health services of local mental health departments. There are also specialised ethnopsychiatric and psychological services for people who have experienced trauma or violence, including migration and travel trauma. However, access may be affected by language and cultural barriers and the local availability of specialists. Specific support for gender identity or sexual orientation may vary depending on the region and healthcare facility.

Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: Access to mental health services via SSN; guaranteed psychological assessment for vulnerable persons; support in CAS/SAI including cultural mediation.
  • Refugees: Pursuant to Article 27 of Legislative Decree 251/2007 and Article 34 of Legislative Decree 286/1998, beneficiaries of international protection have full rights to register with the National Health Service and access essential levels of care, including mental health services (CSM, psychotherapy, trauma support) under the same conditions as citizens.
  • Migrants:
    • Regularly residing migrants: Pursuant to Article 34 of Legislative Decree 286/1998, are entitled to compulsory or voluntary registration with the National Health Service and therefore to access mental health services within the scope of the Essential Levels of Care (LEA).
    • Irregular migrants: Pursuant to Article 35 of Legislative Decree 286/1998, the following are guaranteed: urgent or essential care, including ongoing care; mental health protection; prevention and treatment for serious psychiatric conditions. Access is via the STP (Temporarily Present Foreigner) code. Services are provided without reporting to the authorities, except where required by law.
  • Asylum Seekers: Institutional entities: Ministry of Health; Local Health Authorities (ASL) / Mental Health Departments (DSM) – clinical and therapeutic care; Prefectures – supervision of reception centres; CAS and SAI management bodies – reporting vulnerability and activating local services. Support organisations: UNHCR Italy – monitoring vulnerability protection; CIR Italian Council for Refugees – guidance and psychosocial support; MEDU – Doctors for Human Rights – medical and psychological support for victims of torture and trauma; MSF – Médecins Sans Frontières – psychological interventions in contexts of vulnerability; Italian Red Cross; Linguistic and cultural mediation services.
  • Refugees: Institutional entities: Ministry of Health; Local Health Authorities (ASL) / Mental Health Departments (DSM) – clinical and therapeutic care; SAI integration and psychosocial support programmes. Support organisations: UNHCR Italy – monitoring vulnerability protection; CIR Italian Council for Refugees – guidance and psychosocial support; MEDU – Doctors for Human Rights – medical and psychological support for victims of torture and trauma; MSF – Médecins Sans Frontières – psychological interventions in contexts of vulnerability; Italian Red Cross; Linguistic and cultural mediation services. NGOs with trauma-informed support programmes. Associations specialising in cross-cultural mental health; WHO – Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Guidelines for Refugees;
  • Migrants: Institutional entities: Ministry of Health; Local Health Authorities (ASL) / Mental Health Departments (DSM) – clinical and therapeutic care; SAI management bodies – reporting vulnerability and activating local services. Support organisations MEDU – Doctors for Human Rights – medical and psychological support for victims of torture and trauma; Italian Red Cross; Linguistic and cultural mediation services. Civil society organisations: Caritas, Emergency, ARCI, Patronage and immigration help desks.

Italian social inclusion policies aim to integrate LGBTQI+ asylum seekers, refugees and migrants into local society through community participation programmes, culture, sport, language training and civic activities. These opportunities are available regardless of migration status. The Action Plan for Integration and Inclusion 2021-2027 stipulates that all social policies must be accessible and adapted to the specific needs of migrants. (Integration of Migrants)

Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: They are entitled to material assistance (accommodation, food, basic necessities and pocket money) in the reception system (CAS/SAI). They can work 60 days after submitting their application (if not yet finalised). They are compulsorily registered with the SSN (National Health Service). Access to ordinary economic measures is limited, as many benefits require: registered residence, a residence permit valid for at least one year, ISEE requirements, and minimum periods of stay in Italy.
  • LGBTQI+ people: Specific support (protection, dedicated housing, psychological assistance)
  • Refugees: Access to welfare on the same basis as Italian citizens (Inclusion Allowance, disability benefits, unemployment benefits, child allowance, social housing—if requirements met).
  • Migrants: The situation varies depending on the type of permit. Migrants with a regular residence permit: Access depends on residence permit type, length of stay, Registered residence; ISEE requirements. Main benefits: (ADI) Inclusion Allowance: Requires 5 years of residence in Italy (including 2 consecutive years). Single allowance for children. Rent subsidies. Civil disability. NASpI (unemployment): If contribution requirements are met. Some benefits require EU long-term resident status. Irregular migrants. Limited to emergency services and support from charities.
Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: Entitled to accommodation in the national reception system (initial reception centres and CAS) and temporary facilities managed by the Ministry of the Interior or local authorities. Access is not an individual choice but is determined by assignment to the available facility. (unhcr.org)
  • Refugees: Access to pathways to independent living after recognition of status. They access the SAI reception system, which includes more stable accommodation and local integration pathways managed by municipalities. These pathways must guarantee minimum levels of assistance and local integration. (org)
  • Migrants:
    • A) Regular migrants: Access to the private market, rental subsidies, and public housing rankings.
    • B) Irregular migrants: No access to public housing programmes. Possible access to: Municipal dormitories; Emergency accommodation; Caritas/Red Cross facilities.
  • Asylum Seekers:
    • Initial reception and CAS: Extraordinary Reception Centres (CAS); Government initial reception centres. Managed by the Prefectures. (Ministry of the Interior – Reception system);
    • SAI – Reception and Integration System: Managed by municipalities. Integrated reception programmes. Including vulnerable groups;
    • Unaccompanied Foreign Minors (MSNA): Dedicated facilities and educational communities; Possibility of independent living projects (Ministry of Labour – Unaccompanied foreign minors)
  • Refugees:
    • a) Projects SAI – Second reception: Pathways to independence; Rent support and integration
    • b) Social housing and rent subsidies. Eligible applicants (if they meet the residency and ISEE requirements) may access: Municipal or regional rent subsidies; Public housing (ERP – social housing) – Abitazione Migrant Integration Portal – Housing
    • c) Dormitories and centres for homeless people. Access to municipal services for vulnerable people: PSD – Italian Federation of Organisations for Homeless People; Caritas Italiana – Reception services.
  • Migrants:
Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: Minors have the right to access the national education system under the same conditions as Italian citizens, regardless of their legal status. Adults can access Italian language courses and civic education programmes organised in reception centres (CAS, SAI) or through CPIA (Provincial Centres for Adult Education). Access may vary depending on the stage of the procedure and geographical location.
  • Refugees: They enjoy the same rights as Italian citizens in terms of education. Minors and adults can access public schools, universities, vocational training and language courses. Integration measures are provided for within the SAI system and local projects dedicated to vulnerable LGBTQI+ people.
  • Migrants: Minors have compulsory access to school education. Adults can access CPIA (Provincial Centres for Adult Education) and some regional or municipal programmes, but access to structured integration measures may be limited in the absence of international protection.
Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: They can work 60 days after submitting their application for international protection, if the procedure is still ongoing. They can access Job Centres and vocational guidance and training courses, including through projects run in reception centres (CAS and SAI).
  • Refugees: They have full access to the labour market under the same conditions as Italian citizens. They can register with employment centres, access regional training programmes, internships, apprenticeships and active labour market policy measures. They can also apply for recognition of foreign qualifications and participate in specific labour market inclusion programmes for vulnerable people.
  • Migrants: Regular Migrants: Access to employment services depending on permit type; potential barriers around qualifications. Irregular Migrants: Not allowed to work legally; may receive orientation through NGOs.
Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: They can access the social support services provided in reception centres (CAS and SAI), including guidance on local services, linguistic and cultural mediation, and social integration activities. Support for LGBTQI+ vulnerable individuals.
  • Refugees: Full access to municipal social services and community programmes at the same conditions as Italian citizens. The SAI system provides personalised pathways to social inclusion and autonomy.
  • Migrants: Access varies by residence and locality. associations often provide main community support.
Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: They can access dedicated services through the reception system (SAI) and through LGBTQI+ associations. People recognised as vulnerable can benefit from specific protection pathways.
  • Refugees: Free access to community networks, legal support, safe spaces, and empowerment
  • Migrants: Access to LGBTQI+ associations and support groups; structured services may depend on residence status.
Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: Access to emergency numbers (112/118) regardless of status. In cases of violence or serious vulnerability, protective measures can be activated through reception centres (CAS and SAI) or local social services. LGBTQI+ persons may be recognised as vulnerable and transferred to more suitable facilities if there are risks to their personal safety.
  • Refugees: Full access to emergency and anti‑violence services under the same conditions as Italian citizens.
  • Migrants: Access to urgent and essential healthcare and can access emergency numbers and protection services in cases of violence or serious risk. Housing support may depend on status.
  • Asylum Seekers: 112 – Single Emergency Number. 118 – Medical Emergency – Ministry of Health – Urgent medical interventions. SAI – Reception and Integration System – Protection and transfer measures for vulnerable persons. UNHCR Italy – Guidance and protection for vulnerable persons. Caritas Italiana– Social support and emergency assistance. Italian Red Cross– Humanitarian assistance and crisis support. Arcigay – Support and accompaniment for LGBTQI+ victims of violence.
  • Refugees: 112 – Single Emergency Number. 118 – Medical Emergency. 1522 – Anti-Violence and Stalking Number – 24/7. Municipal Social Services – ANCI – Activation of territorial protection measures. Lenford Network – Legal assistance against discrimination and hate crimes. MIT – Trans Identity Movement – Support for trans people who are victims of violence. CIR – Italian Council for Refugees – Legal support and guidance.
  • Migrants: 112 – Single Emergency Number. 118 – Medical Emergency. 1522 – Anti-Violence Number. Caritas Italiana – Temporary accommodation and social support. Italian Red Cross – Humanitarian assistance. ARCI– Social support and guidance. Info Italia– Practical information on rights and services.
Accessibility (per status):
  • Asylum Seekers: can report discrimination, hate crimes, exploitation or rights violations through national authorities in the area and through regional organisations. Can access anti-trafficking services and anti-discrimination helpdesks, including through third sector organisations. Reports can be submitted directly or with the support of local NGOs.
  • Refugees: Same protection mechanisms available to Italian citizens, including reporting to independent bodies, judicial authorities and regional services against discrimination and exploitation.
  • Migrants: Can access protection mechanisms against discrimination, trafficking, exploitation and civil rights violations through national and regional bodies.