How to Join the Italy Military
The realistic, step-by-step process for enlistment in the Italy armed forces — from first application to your first day of basic training.
- ▸6 main stages
- ▸~16 weeks application to training
- ▸Minimum age: 18 years
- ▸Starting pay: EUR 1,300/month
The application process at a glance
Joining the Italy military takes approximately 16 weeks from initial application to starting basic training. The process has 6 main stages. Be patient — bureaucratic delays at any stage are normal.
Step-by-step recruitment stages
- Step 1: Online application via concorsi.difesa.it
- Step 2: Document review and ranking (graduatoria)
- Step 3: Physical fitness tests (prove di efficienza fisica)
- Step 4: Medical examination (accertamenti sanitari)
- Step 5: Psychological and aptitude assessment
- Step 6: Incorporazione at RAV
Age, citizenship, and basic qualifications
You must be at least 18 years old to enlist (and no older than 25). Italy citizenship is required. Medical and physical fitness standards apply at the screening stage.
What happens after you sign
After contract signing, you are scheduled for basic training (approximately 12 weeks). Initial pay starts at roughly EUR 1,300/month as a Soldato VFI. Your specific MOS / trade / specialty determines follow-on training duration and assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to join the Italy military?
Typically 16 weeks from application to starting basic training, though delays are common.
Do I need Italy citizenship to join?
Yes — Italy citizenship is required for military service.
What test do I have to pass to enlist?
Each country uses different aptitude testing — the recruiter's office or career center will administer it. See specific guidance per branch.
- concorsi.difesa.it VFI bando
- esercito.difesa.it concorsi VFI
- Italian Army pay regulations
- Codice dell'ordinamento militare (D.Lgs. 66/2010) Art. 635