Passports and Visas
Make sure to order or renew your passport soon. Your passport must be valid for at least six months past your date of entry to Italy. The waiting period for a passport can be as much as 3 months in some cases, although it is more likely to take 8-10 weeks. It is recommended to pay for expedited service even if you have enough time before your travels. Visit the U.S. State Department Passport website, or the website of your country, for details.
All participants will enter Italy as a tourist for a stay of fewer than 90 days. American citizens do not need a special visa. Visit the U.S. State Department Visa website for details.
Students from other countries may need visas. Please consult the rules regarding visas between your country and Italy. We will provide necessary documentation of accommodation and study, but students are responsible for completing the required visa application before the deadline as well as paying any fees. Opera Lucca assumes no responsibility for denied visas, and the tuition deposit will not be refunded. Be aware that expiring F-1 student visas can make it very difficult to receive a Schengen visa. Communicate your visa status to Dr. Massol as soon as possible.
Arriving to Lucca
Arrival to Lucca and check-in is on June 8th, 2024 for most students (June 7th for pianists). Please arrive in the morning or early afternoon. It may be possible for some students to check in on June 7th if accommodations are ready and prior arrangements have been made. It is strongly recommended to arrive to Italy a few days before check-in day in order to adjust to the timezone and be ready for check in early in the day on Sunday. Flights to Italy tend to be cheapest on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Checkout is the morning of July 7th, 2024.
Lucca is easily accessible by train from international airports in Rome and Milan, which have daily flights from the US. Lucca can also be reached from regional airports in Florence, Pisa, and Bologna with connections on trains. Visit Trenitalia for timetables and to purchase tickets. We highly recommend downloading the app for convenient ticket purchases. Participants are responsible for making all travel arrangements and arriving in Lucca.
All participants will make their way to Lucca Italian School, Via dei Bacchettoni 25, Lucca, from the train station. It is about a 15 minute walk, or you can take a cab if preferred. From there we will walk you to your housing. We will provide contact numbers in the information emails. You may also find us on facebook messenger.
More specific travel recommendations can be discussed through email.
