Italian Consulate in Istanbul victimizes 1,000 Turkish students as Italy’s FM addresses issue
Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, speaks to the press at the launch of the 9th annual World Italian Cuisine Week at the Foreign Ministry headquarters in Rome, Italy, November 19, 2024. (AA Photo)
Nearly 1,000 Turkish students who have been accepted into Italian universities are still waiting for their visas, with delays stretching up to five months.
Despite assurances from Italian authorities that there are “no barriers” to their education, uncertainty continues for the students.
Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, stated no obstacles are preventing Turkish students from pursuing education in Italy while acknowledging delays in visa processing because of high demand.
High demand for visas slowing process
Speaking at the launch of the 9th annual World Italian Cuisine Week at the Foreign Ministry headquarters in Rome, Tajani addressed questions regarding recent protests by Turkish students.
These students, accepted into Italian universities but unable to travel because of prolonged visa processing times, have voiced their concerns through demonstrations outside Italy’s consulates in Istanbul and Izmir.
When asked about the delays, Tajani explained:
Visa applications take time. We are working to increase the number of staff at our consulates. When demand is high, consulates work as quickly as possible to handle the influx.
Tajani emphasized that Türkiye is not the only country facing this issue, stating,
Many consulates worldwide face overwhelming demand for visas and cannot always meet expectations promptly. However, from our perspective, there is absolutely no obstacle to Turkish students coming to study in Italy.
Protests highlight Turkish students’ struggles
The visa delays have sparked protests across Türkiye. On November 14, students and their families held a demonstration in front of the Italian Consulate in Istanbul, expressing their frustration over waiting times that have stretched up to five months.
A similar protest took place today at Italy’s Izmir Consulate, further underscoring the students’ struggles.
While Tajani’s reassurances indicate Italy’s openness to Turkish students, the ongoing delays leave many uncertain about their academic plans.
Italian authorities are reportedly increasing consular staff to address the backlog and ensure students can begin their studies without further disruptions.
