David

Founder, CEO, and author.

Italian Police Certificates / Criminal Records for U.S. Immigration

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Italian Police Certificates / Criminal Records for U.S. Immigration Applying for Italian police certificates/criminal records from abroad can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to worry as we can handle the entire process for you, quickly and securely. If you are applying for immigration to the United States, you are generally required to provide three different Italian criminal background certificates: Certificato del Casellario Giudiziale (Criminal Record / Police Certificate). This is what it looks like Certificato dei Carichi Pendenti (Certificate of Outstanding Criminal Proceedings / Pending Charges Certificate). This is what it looks like The New Requirement: The “Visura” The visura has only recently been introduced as part of the requirements for U.S. immigration.Unlike the other certificates, the visura does not display the applicant’s name or personal details—this is simply the way it is issued by the courthouse. This is what it looks like How We Can Help As mentioned, if you need these three certificates listed above, you don’t need to worry because we can handle the entire process for you, quickly and securely. As a matter of fact, if you are living abroad, we can handle the entire process on your behalf. Our assistance includes: Required Documents To obtain these certificates, there is no need to prove that you lived in or visited Italy.The courthouse only requires your personal details, your current address, and a valid (Italian or foreign) passport. How to Proceed To start the process: 👉 Request Form for Italian Criminal Records After that: Processing Time We usually collect them within 2 to 5 business days, depending on the specific case. We will personally collect them from the courthouse and send them to you via email or WhatsApp as soon as we have them. Translations Since the certificates are issued in Italian, U.S. immigration authorities normally require translations into English. You can arrange your own translations, or we can provide certified translations accepted by most U.S. immigration offices. If your case requires sworn (official) translations and apostilles, we can assist with those as well. Courier Delivery If you need to receive the hard copies of your certificates, we can send them to your address via courier (typically delivered within 24–72 hours, depending on the delivery address). The courier fee depends on your location and will be calculated after we receive your address. You can pay it separately once scanned copies are sent to you for your review. If you need additional information, please send us an email to crc@vademecumitalia.com or contact us via scscWhatsApp +393270037470

Choosing the Right Area in Rome: Why It’s More Complicated Than You Think and Why You Should Call Us First

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Choosing the Right Area in Rome: Why It’s More Complicated Than You Think and Why You Should Call Us First How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Rome: Why It’s More Complicated Than You Think Rome — the Eternal City — captures the imagination of people from all over the world. From the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, Fori Imperiali and Monti to the grand boulevards of Prati and the lively markets of Testaccio, it’s a city that seems endlessly charming on social media and in glossy travel magazines. But when it comes to actually buying or renting a home here, things get much more complicated. What You See Online Isn’t What You’ll Experience in Real Life Over the years, we’ve assisted many foreign clients who arrived in Rome with a firm idea of where they wanted to live — usually influenced by filtered Instagram photos, tourist blogs, or articles in international magazines. Yet, once they visited the city, many quickly realized that the area they had in mind wasn’t quite what they expected. Some found it too noisy, others too isolated, or lacking the services and day-to-day conveniences they needed. Time and again, they discovered that a completely different neighborhood better suited their lifestyle, interests, and long-term plans. Why Choosing the Right Area Is Like Choosing the Right Investment Buying or renting property in Rome isn’t just about falling in love with a picturesque piazza. It’s a strategic decision — like investing in a company. You wouldn’t invest your money without understanding the business, the market, and the long-term prospects. The same principle applies to real estate in Rome. Each Roman neighborhood has its own unique character, rhythm, and practical realities. What’s the public transport like? Are there markets, parks, or schools nearby? What kind of people live there — students, families, professionals? Are property values stable, rising, or at risk of decline? Unfortunately, this kind of valuable, real-world information is almost impossible to find online. And most real estate agents in Rome — many of whom don’t speak English or only at a basic level — focus solely on properties, not the living experience and future potential of an area. Are You Sure You Know Which Neighborhood Is Right for You? You might be thinking “I love Rome — I already know where I want to live!” But are you sure? Is the best neighborhood for you Parioli — with its elegant houses, proximity to Villa Borghese, and quiet residential streets, but relatively few stores and restaurants nearby? Or maybe Prati, known for its beautiful buildings and endless shops, but also for its busy, bustling vibe? Perhaps Monteverde, a peaceful, green, residential area loved by families, but with no metro station to connect you directly to the city center? Maybe you like the area near the beatiful Villa Pamphili or the Gianicolo, or maybe Borgo Pio is the right one for you, because it is where you can find the famous church of San Pietro. And if you have your heart set on the Centro Storico, have you considered which part of it? Because the historic center isn’t one single, uniform area — it’s a collection of very different neighborhoods. There’s Monti, Rome’s oldest district with a bohemian, village feel; the Trevi Fountain area, incredibly charming but always packed with tourists; Piazza di Spagna, via del babuino, Piazza del Popolo, via Margutta, elegant and exclusive; Campo de’ Fiori, lively and youthful; the quieter, atmospheric streets around Teatro Marcello; and even San Saba and Aventino, two of Rome’s most refined, serene residential areas, offering villas in leafy streets, ancient sites, and a calm atmosphere close to the city’s heart. If you are looking for a green area you could consider EUR, but it’s not going to take you 15 minutes to get to the center of the city. Each of these areas offers a unique living experience — and these subtle but crucial differences are something you’ll never fully grasp through online listings or social media posts. This is exactly why having a local expert by your side matters. Someone who can walk these streets with you, explain what it’s like to actually live there, and help you make a decision that fits your lifestyle, not just your Instagram feed. It’s Not Just About Where You Wake Up — It’s About How You Live Your Day We believe that choosing the right neighborhood in Rome shouldn’t be based only on what you see when you wake up in the morning — it should reflect what you enjoy doing and what your daily life requires. You might imagine that opening your window to a view of the Colosseum sounds perfect, and it very well might… at first. But once you settle into daily life, you could realize that for example the Celio area — while undeniably charming — isn’t the most practical place for you. Maybe you’d feel more at home in Campo Marzio, with its lively atmosphere and proximity to elegant shops and restaurants, or near the Pantheon, where history and everyday conveniences blend beautifully. The right neighborhood should complement your routines, your hobbies, and the kind of lifestyle you want to build in Rome — not just offer a postcard view. Why You Need a Local Expert by Your Side This is where Vademecum Italia comes in. As an Italian attorney living and working in Rome for nearly 20 years, I know this city inside and out — not as a tourist, but as a resident, professional, and parent. I’ve seen neighborhoods rise and fall in popularity, new areas develop, and hidden gems emerge where no guidebook would ever tell you to look. That’s why we offer a personal, English-speaking consultation service for foreigners interested in buying or renting in Rome. How It Works Why This Service Matters This isn’t about selling properties. It’s about helping you make an informed, confident decision about where to build your life or invest in Rome. It’s about knowing where your money … Read more

Do you want to buy or rent a property in Italy? Torino is a Hidden Gem in the Italian Real Estate Market

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Do you want to buy or rent a property in Italy? Torino is a Hidden Gem in the Italian Real Estate Market Why Invest in Torino? Torino, the elegant capital of the Piedmont region, is an increasingly attractive destination for those looking to buy or rent property in Italy. Often overshadowed by Milan, Torino offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern development, all at a more accessible price point. With its strategic location, vibrant economy, and rich cultural scene, this city presents an exciting opportunity for both investors and those seeking a high-quality Italian lifestyle. Imagine going for a walk and seeing this A City of Culture, Art, and Events Torino is a hub for major international events, making it one of the most dynamic cities in Italy. Among its highlights: A Strategic Location with Unmatched Connectivity Torino enjoys an enviable geographic position, offering easy access to a variety of landscapes and attractions: Why Buy or Rent in Torino? Unlike Milan, where real estate prices have surged dramatically, Torino remains a much more affordable market with excellent long-term potential. The city offers a wide variety of properties, from elegant historic apartments in the center to modern developments in growing districts. Torino’s high quality of life, cultural vibrancy, and economic opportunities make it a fantastic place to settle down or invest. How We Can Help At Vademecum Italia, we assist international buyers and renters in finding the perfect property in Torino. Whether you’re looking for a charming historic residence, a modern apartment, or a lucrative investment opportunity, our expert team will guide you through the entire process. We provide: Your Torino Property Awaits With its exceptional quality of life, cultural richness, and strategic location, Torino is a city with immense potential. Whether you’re dreaming of an Italian home or looking for a smart investment, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities this city has to offer. Contact Vademecum Italia today to start your journey toward owning or renting property in Torino!

Discover Cellar Contemporary: A Trusted Partner in Italian Contemporary Art

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Federico Lanaro, courtesy of Cellar Contemporary Discover Cellar Contemporary: A Trusted Partner in Italian Contemporary Art If you are passionate about contemporary art and seeking a trusted Italian art gallery to explore or collaborate with, look no further than Cellar Contemporary. Located in the charming city of Trento, Italy, this gallery has established itself as a hub for contemporary art enthusiasts and collectors alike. About Cellar Contemporary Founded by Davide Raffaelli, in collaboration with Camilla Nacci, Cellar Contemporary is more than just an art gallery—it’s a dynamic platform that connects artists and audiences through exhibitions, international fairs, and personal relationships with creators. With decades of experience in the art world, the team behind Cellar Contemporary has built a reputation for professionalism, passion, and innovation. The gallery specializes in showcasing emerging and established contemporary artists, offering a diverse selection of artworks ranging from paintings to sculptures and mixed media. Their mission is to bring fresh perspectives to the art world while fostering meaningful connections between artists and collectors. Some of the talented artists they represent include: JOE GRILLOMARGHERITA PAOLETTIANGELO MAISTOFEDERICO LANAROAUSTIN EDDYERIK FOSSBRUNO FANTELLIBRIAN BELOTTSOLOMOSTRY TOMMASO BULDINIMELISSA BROWN To explore their full roster of artists or view their current collection of artworks, visit their website Artists | Cellar Contemporary Art or Artworks | Cellar Contemporary Art Courtesy of Cellar Contemporary Global Reach and Artistic Connections Cellar Contemporary is not limited to its physical space in Trento. The team frequently travels worldwide to attend prestigious art fairs and exhibitions. They have participated in events such as the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, ArtVerona, Roma Arte in Nuvola, and many others where they present carefully curated selections of their artists’ works. Their global reach extends to cities like New York, where they meet artists in person, often forming strong personal connections with them. This hands-on approach ensures that every artist represented by the gallery is someone they genuinely believe in and support. Exhibitions at the Gallery Cellar Contemporary regularly hosts thought-provoking exhibitions at their gallery space. Currently, they are promoting an exciting exhibition titled Flower Games by Melissa Brown. Brown’s work challenges perceptions and invites viewers to engage deeply with her vibrant and imaginative pieces. To know more about this exibition click here MELISSA BROWN | Flower Games | Cellar Contemporary Art Courtesy of Cellar Contemporary The gallery’s exhibitions are meticulously curated to offer visitors an immersive experience that goes beyond simply viewing art. In addition to their in-house exhibitions, Cellar Contemporary collaborates with institutions like the Museo Etnografico Trentino San Michele (METS), where their artworks are on display as part of broader cultural projects. Why Choose Cellar Contemporary? Our Impression We had the pleasure of meeting the team of Cellar Contemporary in person. From the moment we met them, it was clear that they truly love what they do. Their passion for contemporary art shines through in every conversation, exhibition, and collaboration. We were particularly impressed by their dedication to building genuine relationships with both artists and clients. The team’s professionalism is matched only by their warmth—they are always open to discussing art and sharing their knowledge with others. Their ability to combine a deep love for art with a serious approach to business makes them an outstanding partner for anyone looking to engage with Italian contemporary art. Final Recommendation If you are searching for an Italian contemporary art gallery that combines passion, professionalism, and global expertise, Cellar Contemporary is an excellent choice. Whether you’re an avid collector or simply curious about contemporary art, their team will guide you through their collection with care and insight. Visit their website or reach out directly to learn more about their current exhibitions or inquire about specific artworks. When you contact Cellar Contemporary, don’t forget to mention that you discovered them through Vademecum Italia! This not only helps establish a connection but also lets the gallery know that our recommendation played a role in your decision. It reinforces the trust we place in them as a partner while strengthening our collaboration for future opportunities. We would really appreciate it! With worldwide shipping available, owning a piece of Italian contemporary art has never been easier! All images featured in this post are courtesy of Cellar Contemporary, shared with their kind permission to showcase their great work and talent. CELLAR CONTEMPORARYby Davide Raffaelli Via San Martino 5238122, Trento (TN)+39 0461 1481271info@cellarcontemporary.comVAT Registration Number: P.IVA 02438320224 Established: September 27, 2016 VAT Status: currently active This information has been Verified by Vademecum Italia confirming that Cellar Contemporary is a legitimate and active business.

Italian Citizenship Jure Sanguinis. Decree-Law No. 36 of March 28, 2025: Urgent Provisions on Citizenship

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Italian Citizenship Jure Sanguinis. Decree-Law No. 36 of March 28, 2025: Urgent Provisions on Citizenship On March 28, 2025, the Italian government published Decree-Law No. 36 in the Official Gazette, introducing unprecedented restrictions on the recognition of Italian citizenship for descendants born and residing abroad. To qualify for citizenship, applicants must meet specific conditions, such as having a parent or grandparent born in Italy or having a parent who resided in Italy for at least two years before their birth. The decree took effect on March 29, 2025, but procedures initiated before March 27, 2025, remain under previous rules. On March 28, 2025, the Italian government published Decree-Law No. 36 in the Official Gazette, introducing unprecedented restrictions on the recognition of Italian citizenship for descendants born and residing abroad. The changes outlined below apply to applications submitted at Italian consulates, Italian municipalities, and Italian Courts. We should also mention that new mesures will be implemented through a disegno di legge (bill), as the Council of Ministers adopted a “citizenship package”, a set of legislative measures proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to reform the citizenship regulations. Background Historically, Italian citizenship has been granted without generational limits and without requiring proof of actual ties to the country. This has led to a significant increase in the number of Italian citizens abroad. According to the Government Considering that this regulatory framework results in the continuous and exponential growth of the pool of potential Italian citizens residing outside the national territory, who, due to holding one or more citizenships other than Italian, are predominantly tied to other states by deep cultural, identity, and loyalty bonds. Considering that the possible absence of effective ties with the Republic among a growing number of citizens, which could reach a size equal to or greater than the population residing within the national territory, constitutes a serious and current risk factor for national security and, due to Italy’s membership in the European Union, for other member states and the Schengen Area. Therefore, considering the extraordinary need and urgency to introduce limitations on the automatic transmission of Italian citizenship to individuals born and residing abroad, conditioning it on clear indicators of the existence of effective ties with the Republic. Therefore, considering the extraordinary need and urgency to strike a balance between the principles set forth in Articles 1 and 3 of the Constitution, applying the aforementioned limitations to all future recognitions of Italian citizenship and avoiding the inherent unreasonableness of recognizing Italian citizenship based on different criteria depending on a random factor not indicative of effective ties with the Republic, such as the birthplace of the applicants, rather than the actual exercise of rights or fulfillment of duties connected with the status of citizen. Considering the extraordinary need and urgency to introduce measures to prevent, pending the approval of a comprehensive reform of the provisions on citizenship, an exceptional and uncontrolled influx of citizenship recognition applications, which would hinder the orderly functioning of consular offices abroad, municipalities, and judicial offices In light of the above, the Government decided to change the rules and published the Decree-Law No. 36 Key Provisions Immediate Effects and Procedural Limits The decree took effect on March 29, 2025 (see below). Procedures initiated before March 27, 2025, will be governed by previous regulations, while new applications will be subject to the new rules. The reasoning behind this new decree As mentioned above, this measure aims to curb the exponential growth of new citizens linked to Italy only formally, while safeguarding national security and the administrative stability of Italian consulates and courts. This decree marks a significant shift in how Italian citizenship is granted to descendants born abroad. The changes are designed to address the rapid growth of Italian citizens abroad and to streamline administrative processes. It aims to ensure that those acquiring citizenship have a meaningful connection to Italy, aligning with practices in other European countries and facilitating free movement within the EU for those with genuine ties to their country of origin. As a matter of fact, in the official text we can read Therefore, considering the extraordinary need and urgency to introduce limitations on the automatic transmission of Italian citizenship to individuals born and residing abroad, conditioning it on clear indicators of the existence of effective ties with the Republic The Role of Italian Consulates and Municipalities The “package” introduces a centralized office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to handle citizenship applications, replacing the current system where consulates manage these processes. This change aims to streamline procedures and reduce the workload on consulates, allowing them to focus on serving existing citizens Summarizing the Key Points for Applicants Possible consequences First of all, there is a specific paragragh that we need to bring to your attention which states that “In light of the principle of proportionality, it is deemed appropriate to maintain Italian and, consequently, European citizenship for individuals born and residing abroad who have already been validly recognized as citizens“. Therefore, you should not worry if you fall under these cases. If your case involves a great-grandparent or a great-great-grandparent, this new regulation may impact your eligibility. However, as the decree is recent, its interpretation and potential challenges are still unfolding. In the Italian legislative system, a decreto-legge is an urgent measure enacted by the government that takes immediate effect but requires parliamentary approval within 60 days to remain valid. Therefore, this specific decree is currently undergoing conversion into law by the Italian Parliament, which must approve it within 60 days for it to become permanent. So, the government’s use of a decreto-legge in this context means the restriction is currently in force but could be modified or rejected during parliamentary review. Then, new mesures will be implemented through a disegno di legge (bill) which is a legislative proposal that undergoes a standard parliamentary process before becoming law. These provisions do not affect citizenship applications by marriage or by residence. Here is a link to the Italian Official Gazette pdf

Rome’s Real Estate Renaissance: A Prime Opportunity for Living and Investment

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Rome’s Real Estate Renaissance: A Prime Opportunity for Living and Investment Rome, the Eternal City, is experiencing a remarkable transformation in its real estate landscape, presenting unparalleled opportunities for both prospective residents and savvy investors. As the city is living the Holy Year in 2025, substantial public investments are revitalizing infrastructure and urban spaces, enhancing Rome’s allure and livability. Why Rome? Several factors contribute to Rome’s growing appeal in the real estate sector: Imagine going for a walk and seeing this A Market on the Rise Recent trends indicate that Rome’s real estate sector is gaining momentum: Comprehensive Support with Vademecum Italia Navigating the Italian real estate market can be complex, especially for foreigners. At Vademecum Italia, we offer a suite of services to streamline your property journey: Seize the Opportunity Whether you’re envisioning a life amidst Rome’s enchanting streets or seeking a promising investment in a city always on the rise, now is the time to act. The convergence of cultural richness, strategic developments, and favorable market conditions makes Rome an ideal destination for discerning buyers. Contact Vademecum Italia today at info@vademecumitalia.com to embark on your Roman real estate journey. Let us guide you through every step, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience in acquiring your piece of the Eternal City. Vademecum Italia – Your Trusted Partner in Navigating Italian Real Estate

What Is an Apostille and Do I Need It on my Criminal Record Certificate?

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What Is an Apostille and Do I Need It on my Criminal Record Certificate? I often receive questions about what an Apostille is and when it is needed, especially in relation to the Certificato del Casellario Giudiziale (Criminal Record/Police Certificate/Background Check) and the Certificato dei Carichi Pendenti (Pending Charges Certificate). To clarify this topic and assist those who need this certification, I decided to write this post. If you are planning to use your Certificato del Casellario Giudiziale (Criminal record/Police certificate/Background check) and the Certificato dei Carichi Pendenti (Pending charges certificate) in a foreign country, you will often need to obtain an Apostille to validate the document. An Apostille is a certification, a big stamp that is usually added to the back of the certificate, which simplifies the process of authenticating public documents for use abroad. It ensures that documents issued in a country that has signed the Hague Convention of 5 October 1961 (e.g. Italy) are legally recognized in another member country (e.g. the UK). This significantly expedites and simplifies the process of recognizing documents between countries, compared to the ordinary legalization route, which must be done through consulates. It is important to note that an Apostille does not confirm that the content of the document (e.g., a criminal record) is correct, accurate, or valid. Instead, it certifies the authenticity of the signature of the official who issued the document, confirming that the document can be accepted in a foreign country that has signed the Hague Convention. Example of an Apostille on an Italian Criminal Record Certificate: Below is an example of an Apostille on a Criminal record issued by the Procura della Repubblica di Roma: As you can see from the example above, the Apostille typically states: It also includes details of the Apostille-issuing office, a chronological number, an official stamp, and the signature of the certifying officer. When Is an apostille required? Most of the time, an Apostille is required for visa applications. However, employers in certain countries—such as the UK—often request an Apostille when hiring foreign workers. Is an apostille accepted by all countries? No, an Apostille is only accepted in countries that have signed the Hague Convention mentioned above. The most common requests we receive for Apostilles on criminal record certificates are for Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA, Portugal, Spain, China, and Canada. However, we strongly recommend that you check with the receiving authority before proceeding. Even if your destination country has signed the Hague Convention, you may not need an Apostille, as some employers or institutions do not require it. So, it really depends on your specific case. Are they any exceptions? Yes, there are exceptions to the Apostille requirement. Certain countries do not require Apostilles for public documents such as criminal record certificates due to specific agreements. These include: What should you do if you need an apostille on your certificate? If you need to use your Certificato del Casellario Giudiziale or Certificato dei Carichi Pendenti abroad, check whether: ✅ The destination country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention✅ The country requires an Apostille or is exempt under a specific agreement If an Apostille is required, it must be requested at the Procura della Repubblica where the criminal record was issued. Currently, after collecting your certificate, we can also request the Apostille for you. Need Assistance? For further assistance, or to know the processing time and costs for adding an Apostille to your certificate, feel free to contact us: 📧 Email: crc@vademecumitalia.com📲 WhatsApp: (+39) 3270037470 We are here to streamline this process for you!

Law 207/2024: The new provisions on contributions for citizenship applications and civil status certificates

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Law 207/2024: The new provisions on contributions for citizenship applications and civil status certificates Summary of the New Regulation As of 1 January 2025, important regulatory changes were introduced concerning applications for Italiancitizenship and historical civil status certificates. As a matter of fact, a new law (Law 207/2024, effective January 1, 2025) allows Italian municipalities to charge an administrative fee for certain citizenship applications and civil status records older than 100 years. The fees can be: So, Italian comuni may make applications for recognition of Italian citizenship conditional on the payment of an administrative fee not exceeding € 600. As for the certificate requests, if you will be requesting one certificate the municipality could charge you up to € 300, and if you are requesting two certificates the municipality could charge you up to € 600. However, the contribution may be reduced if the requests indicate precisely the date of birth and the name of the person to whom the certificate refers. Please note that the fee is determined by the municipality, not by us, and we do not collect it. So far, only two municipalities have applied this charge, but we expect others to do so very soon. It is important to specify that in the event of incorrect or missing payment of contributions, applications cannot proceed. Payment of the contribution must be made within the deadlines/terms set by the comune. The contributions paid are allocated to the budget of the municipalities concerned. In contrast, the rules concerning stamp duty remain valid.

How the Italian educational system is structured

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How the Italian educational system is structured The Italian school system is divided into five levels: nursery school/kindergarten/pre-school, primary school, lower secondary school, upper secondary school, and university. If you are looking for English-speaking schools in Italy we invite you to read this post English speaking schools in Italy https://www.vademecumitalia.com/english-speaking-schools-in-italy/ Compulsory education is required for at least 10 years and applies to the age group between 6 and 16 years old. The purpose of compulsory education is to obtain an upper secondary school degree or a professional qualification with a duration of at least three years by the age of 18. Compulsory education is free. Compulsory education can be fulfilled in: The school year usually runs from September to June. School terms are usually two: the first term runs from September to December, and the second term runs from January to June. However, oftentimes schools divide them into 3 subterms called “trimesters”. Students have a few weeks of vacation in the winter and from June to September in the summer. However, university students usually have exams until the end of the month of July. There are national exams at the end of lower secondary school, and upper secondary school. Universities usually have a few months of in-class courses, then a break for exams for those courses, which can be written or oral, and then again in-class courses followed by exams. The Italian language is the language of instruction in all schools at every level, although English is thought in schools from first grade. Then, some schools and universities have English-speaking courses or classes.