Italy
The Italy visa application process follows the Schengen rules for short stays (less than 90 days) and specific procedures for long stays (more than 90 days). Find below a detailed and informative overview of the steps to follow to obtain a visa for Italy, accompanied by links to guide applicants through the procedure.
1. Determine the type of visa required
The type of visa you need to apply for depends on the purpose of your trip and the length of your stay. Find below the main types of visas for Italy:
– Schengen Visa (short stay – Type C): Valid for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, family visits, etc. This visa also allows you to travel to other Schengen countries.
– National Visa (long stay – Type D): For stays of more than 90 days, such as studies, work or family reunification.
Link to determine the type of visa: Official Visa Portal for Italy
2. Check if a visa is required
Citizens of the European Union and some countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa for short stays in Italy (less than 90 days). For citizens of other countries, a visa is required.
Link to check if a visa is required: Do I need a visa for Italy?
3. Documents required for visa application
Documents vary depending on the type of visa, but below is a list of general documents required for a Schengen visa or a national visa:
Documents for a Schengen visa (short stay):
– Valid passport: With at least two blank pages and a validity of at least three months after the intended return date.
– Visa application form: Completed and signed.
– Passport photos: Compliant with biometric standards.
– Proof of financial means: Bank statements or any other document proving that you can support yourself in Italy.
– Travel insurance: Covering at least €30,000 for medical and repatriation expenses.
– Round-trip air ticket: Proof of reservation.
– Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation, accommodation certificate or invitation.
– Purpose of visit: Invitation letter, travel itinerary, etc.
Documents for a national visa (long stay):
– Valid passport: As for the Schengen visa.
– Application form specific to the national visa.
– Identity photos.
– Documents specific to the type of visa (employment contract, letter of admission for students, proof of resources, etc.).
Link to consult the documents required by type of visa: Visa Information for Italy
4. Complete the visa application form
Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you must fill out the visa application form corresponding to your type of stay (short or long term). This form can be downloaded or filled out online.
Link to download the Schengen visa form: Schengen visa application form for Italy
5. Make an appointment at the consulate or visa application center
Visa applications must be submitted in person at the Italian Embassy or Consulate, or at a Visa Application Center (such as VFS Global) authorized to process Italian visas in certain countries.
Steps:
Choose the Consulate or Visa Application Center closest to your residence.
Book an appointment online to submit your application and documents.
Arrive at the appointment with all original documents and a copy of each document.
Link to book an appointment with VFS Global: VFS Global – Italy Visa Application
6. Pay the visa fee
Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the length of stay. Find below the typical fees for a Schengen visa (short stay) and a national visa (long stay):
– Schengen visa (short stay): Around €80 for adults, and €40 for children aged 6 to 12. Children under 6 are exempt from fees.
– National visa (long stay): Fees vary depending on the purpose of the stay, but are generally around €116.
Payment of the visa fee is made when submitting your application in person at the consulate or application centre.
Link to view visa fees: Visa Fees for Italy
7. Submission of biometric data
At your appointment for submitting your visa application, you will need to provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). If you have already provided your biometric data for a Schengen visa within the last 59 months, you will not need to do it again.
8. Processing of the request and follow-up
The processing time for Schengen visa applications is usually 10 to 15 working days. For a national visa, the time can vary from 30 to 60 days, depending on the type of visa and the time of year.
You can track the status of your application online via the consulate portal or via VFS Global if you have submitted your application through a visa center.
Link to track the status of the application via VFS Global: Track Your Application – VFS Global
9. Receipt of visa
Once the application is approved, you will receive your passport with the visa affixed. You can either pick it up at the consulate or visa application center or opt for courier delivery if this service is available. If the application is denied, you will receive a notification with the reasons for the denial and instructions for possible appeal.
10. Entry into Italy and border control
When you arrive in Italy, you must present:
– Your passport with valid visa.
– Proof of accommodation and return ticket.
– Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Customs officers may ask you questions about the reasons for your trip and your plans during your stay.
11. Extension of visa or change of status
If you are already in Italy with a national (long-stay) visa, you must apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days of your arrival in Italy. If you are in Italy with a Schengen visa, you generally cannot extend your stay beyond 90 days, except in exceptional circumstances.
Link to apply for a residence permit in Italy: Permesso di Soggiorno – Info
Ressources supplémentaires :
Official Visa Portal for Italy : Visa for Italy
Italian Embassies and Consulates : Find Italian Consulates Worldwide
VFS Global - Italy Visa Application Center : VFS Global
Apply for a residence permit (long stay) : Permesso di Soggiorno
By following our guide or letting us assist you, and making sure you provide all the necessary documents, you will maximize your chances of obtaining a visa for Italy. Respect the deadlines and instructions of the consulate or visa center to avoid any delays or complications.