Why is the Posta Elettronica Certificata (PEC) (certified e-mail) system important in Italy?

📩 What is PEC?

PEC stands for Posta Elettronica Certificata , a certified e-mail system. It is a legally valid means of communication in Italy and has the same legal value as registered mail . Every message you send is verified by the system with a receipt for both sending and delivery .

🎓 Why is it important for students and internationals?

• PEC may be required when you need to send official documents to universities, government agencies, or embassies.

• Institutions, especially for processes such as registration, scholarships, residence permits, or visa applications, only accept emails from PEC (Process Electronics) addresses.

• This is the safest and fastest official communication method for students conducting transactions from abroad.

🔧 How to Obtain a PEC Address?

In Italy, you can create a PEC account in minutes through approved providers. You will need to verify your identity (passport or ID card) and enter your tax code ( codice fiscale ).

The most common PEC providers are:

Provider	Web Address	Salary (annual)	Feature
Aruba PEC	www.pec.it	5–10 €	Easy-to-use interface, Turkish language support available.
Poste Italiane	www.poste.it	10–15 €	Government-approved, reliable infrastructure.
InfoCert	www.infocert.it	10–20 €	Corporate and student plans
LegalMail	www.legalmail.it	€15–25	Enhanced security for professionals.

⚙️ Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a PEC Account

1. Choose one of the providers above.

2. Click the “ Attiva PEC ” button.

3. Upload your credentials.

4. Enter your Codice fiscale (Italian tax number).

5. Confirm your account by making a payment.

6. You now have your own PEC address: → example: yourfirstname.yourlastname@pec.it

🧾 Things to Consider When Sending Emails with PEC

• Send the email to the recipient's PEC address , not their regular email address.

• A " Ricevuta di Consegna " (delivery receipt) is automatically sent after each shipment.

• Keep this receipt, as it serves as legal proof.

• You cannot send PECs directly through Gmail or Outlook; it is only possible through the PEC provider's web interface or add-in.

💡 Areas of Use for Students

• University registration and document submission.

• DSU Toscana, INPS or Questura operations

• Residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) extension applications

• Erasmus, scholarship or diploma equivalency documents.

• Correspondence with public institutions in Italy

🕓 How long does it take to become active?

Once identity verification is complete, PEC is usually activated within 1 hour. Some providers accept online verification with a passport, which speeds up the process.