It's the actual issuing of a residence permit by the Questura, after the application, fingerprinting, and document checks are complete. You're notified to pick it up at a counter.
Until the rilascio happens, you operate on receipts and old permits. Once the card is in hand, your status is solid and easier to prove with employers, banks, and travel.
"After more than 8 months of waiting in Cosenza, Razvan was finally summoned for the rilascio of his new permesso. He walked out of the Questura with the plastic card and a small sense of relief."
Pickup appointments can come by SMS, by post, or only show on the Polizia di Stato portal. Check the portal regularly with your file number so you don't miss your slot.
Official source
Polizia di Stato
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