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Visas to enter italy.

If you would like to travel to Italy, depending on your citizenship, the duration and purpose of your stay, a visa may be required before departure.

Do you need a visa? To find out whether you need to apply for a visa click here . 

For additional information on the individual types of visa please see below:

• Tourism/Airport Transit
• Subordinate work
• Independent work
• Religious activity
• Family reasons
• Family of US military personnel
• Digital Nomad / Remote Worker VISA 

Please be reminded of the following list of documents to be provided, depending on yout application:

For tourism:

• FLIGHT RESERVATIONS
• HOTEL RESERVATION

For business:

• OFFICIAL BUSINESS INVITATION FROM ITALY

For study (less than 90 days):

• ENROLLMENT LETTER FROM THE ITALIAN SCHOOL

For study (more than 90 days):

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF THE ITEMS LISTED BELOW ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDUELE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

We also recommend to carefully read our  FAQ

Please note that visa officers may request additional documents at their discretion based on the interview with the applicant.

NEWS – Following the recent amendment to the Immigration Consolidation Act (“TUI” Legislative Decree 286/1998, article 26-bis), foreign nationals who intend to make an investment in Italy are allowed entry and stay in the country through a simplified procedure for the issuance of the visa. The “investor visa” is not subject to the annual limits on entries (“quotas”) referred to in the aforementioned Immigration Consolidation Act. For more information and submission of applications, please consult the website https://investorvisa.mise.gov.it/index.php/it/

For information on visas not listed on this page, please contact the Consular Office by e-mail: [email protected]

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Visa Requirements for Italy

Schengen Tourist Visa

Student visa, family visa, visa overstays, extending your visa.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Italy is one of the most-visited countries in the world, welcoming millions of international tourists every year who come to visit ancient sites, lounge on Mediterranean beaches, and dine on the world's most recognized cuisine. Anyone traveling with a passport from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the U.K., the EU, or more than 50 other visa-exempt countries can enter with just a passport for up to 90 days, as long as it doesn't expire for at least three months after you plan to leave.

Italy is one of the 26 countries that make up the Schengen Area , a group of European nations that have abolished border checks between each other. Because these countries are considered to be one entity, the 90-day limit for visiting applies to the entire Schengen Area, not each individual country. Countries that are a part of this agreement include Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

If you have a passport from a non-exempt country , you'll need to apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa in order to enter Italy—which also allows the holder to travel freely around the Schengen Area for up to 90 days.

Anyone who isn't from the EU and is planning to move to Italy for a period longer than 90 days must apply for a national visa. This applies to workers, students, and relatives of Italian residents.

Only nationals from certain countries need to apply for a tourist visa, but the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers an easy-to-use tool for determining if you need one or not. If you have a passport from a non-exempt country, the Schengen Tourist Visa allows you to freely travel around Europe for 90 days just as a visa-exempt visitor can. Depending on what you're approved for, the tourist visa may allow you multiple entries into the Schengen Area or just one, so pay close attention to what your visa says.

Visa Fees and Application

If you need a Schengen Tourist Visa, first confirm you're applying through the right country. If you're only visiting Italy or Italy is the primary destination of your trip—meaning the most number of days—you'll have to apply through an Italian consulate. If you're visiting multiple countries for an equal number of days but Italy is the first Schengen county you visit, you'll also apply at an Italian consulate.

• Find your nearest Italian consulate and make an appointment to present your documents.
• Bring a completed application form , your passport, a color photo of yourself, bank statements to show financial means, roundtrip airfare, travel insurance, and accommodations for the entire trip.
• The visa fee of 80 euros is payable by money order or cashier's check in the local currency at the time of your appointment. Check your consulate's webpage for the current exchange rate.
• If your application is approved, your passport will be mailed to you within seven to 14 days with the visa affixed inside.

If your plan is to move to Italy to work, you'll need to apply for a national long-term visa. These visas are granted for individuals who have already been offered a job by an Italian company or who are self-employed and have business in Italy. These visas are initially approved for periods up to one year, but you'll need to apply for a residency card in the local police station— Questura —upon arrival, which can be renewed annually.

The first step is obtaining the nulla osta lavoro , which is a work permit that comes from the provincial immigration office in Italy (the office is the Sportello Unico dell’Immigrazione ). If you've been hired by an Italian company, your employer is responsible for completing this step. It's more complicated if you're applying for a self-employed work visa since you'll need to hire a proxy in Italy to complete this step for you.

Once the Italian immigration office approves the request, they'll send the nulla osta to your local Italian consulate in your home country, where you'll need to make an appointment to turn in the remaining documents.

• Bring with you a completed application form , your passport, and a color photo of yourself.
• You'll pay the visa fee at the time of your appointment, which is 116 euros payable in the local currency by money order or cashier's check.
• After your appointment, the processing time takes about two weeks for your passport to be mailed back to you with the visa inside.

Italy is the most desired country in the world for study abroad students and its many prestigious universities—which are some of the oldest in all of Europe—also attract plenty of foreigners who come to study full-time. Whether you're studying abroad for a term or enrolling in an Italian university, if you'll be in Italy for longer than 90 days you need to apply for a student visa.

If you're from a visa-exempt country and your program is less than 90 days—such as a summer program—you don't need a visa to study and you can enter as a tourist. If you're from a non-exempt country and your program is less than 90 days, you'll apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa and mark that the reason for your trip is educational (which also waives the visa fee).

Student visas are granted for the duration of the program for up to one year, and all visa holders must apply for a residency card at the local police station ( Questura ) upon arriving in Italy. For programs that last longer than a year, you can renew your residency card within Italy.

As with all Italian visas, you'll need to physically turn in your documents to your nearest consulate after making an appointment.

• Bring your completed application form , passport, a color photo of yourself, a letter of acceptance into an education program, proof of financial means, travel insurance, and proof of accommodations.
• The letter of acceptance must be written in Italian and include the contact information for a school administrator who resides in Italy.
• The fee for a student visa is 50 euros, which is payable in the local currency via money order or a cashier's check. Check your consulate's website for the current exchange rate.
• Visas are usually processed within two weeks from your appointment. If approved, your passport will be mailed back to you with your visa affixed inside.

If you are a legal resident of Italy, you can sponsor your spouse or domestic partner of the same or opposite sex, your minor child, your child over 18 who is dependent on you, or your parents if they are over 65 to join you by applying for a family visa. The family visa only applies when the sponsor is a legal resident of Italy—such as with a work or student visa—but not a citizen of Italy or any other EU country. In the latter case, there is a more streamlined process that is done through the police station in Italy.

The initial process for obtaining a family visa is similar to the work visa—the sponsor must already be in Italy and request a nulla osta from the immigration office in the province where they reside for their family members. Once the nulla osta is approved, the applicant can schedule an appointment at the Italian consulate in their home country.

• The applicant must bring to the appointment a completed application , passport, a color photograph, and legal certificates that show the relation to the sponsor.
• All certificates must be legalized and translated into Italian.
• The fee for the family visa is 116 euros and must be paid with a money order or cashier's check in the local currency.
• Unless further information is needed or something needs to be clarified, family visas are typically approved within two weeks.

Whether you're from a visa-exempt country or you're granted a Schengen Tourist Visa, you're allowed to be in Italy and the entire Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. To make sure you don't go over, pull out a calendar and go to the date you expect to leave the Schengen Area for good. From there, count back 180 days—roughly six months—and add up all of the days you were in a Schengen Area country. If the total comes out to 90 or less, you don't have to worry.

If you count more than 90 days, you'll be overstaying your visa which is a serious problem. The exact punishment varies depending on your particular circumstances and what country you're caught in, but expect anything from a hefty fine up to detention, deportation, and being banned from returning.

If you want to prolong your vacation for longer than 90 days you can request an extension, but you'll need a good reason for doing so. Potential reasons include a natural disaster, humanitarian crisis, medical emergency, or an unexpected death. You'll need to visit a police station in Italy to ask for the extension and the final decision lies with the officer who happens to help you. Most important, you must request the extension before your initial 90-day limit runs out. If you wait until after, you'll have already overstayed your visa and you may be immediately deported.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Italy Schengen Visa Guide: Application, Requirements, and Tips

Italy is more than just a country—it’s a fusion of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From its ancient Roman heritage to its modern economic prowess. This detailed Italy Schengen Visa Guide will unravel Italy’s visa application and entry requirements, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your Italian adventure.

Discovering Italy: History and Natural Beauty

Italy is a captivating blend of architectural marvels, ranging from Romanesque and Gothic to Mannerist, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. The remnants of the Roman Empire still grace its landscapes, while the country boasts a coastline stretching 7,600 km, adorned with picturesque lakes, stunning cliffs, and lush national parks. With over 50 million tourists visiting Italy annually, tourism contributes more than 60% of the nation’s income.

Navigating Italy Visa Application and Entry Requirements

For world travelers, Italy offers the allure of its rich history and breathtaking scenery. If you’re planning a short stay, understanding the entry requirements is crucial. EU/EEA nationals can enter Italy with just an identification document, thanks to the Schengen Zone’s common travel area. However, non-EU/EEA travelers must adhere to specific guidelines.

To enter Italy, non-EU/EEA travelers need:

• A valid passport or travel document, with a validity of at least three months beyond the planned exit from Schengen and issued within the last ten years.
• A visa is subject to the Italian visa regime.
• Additional documents like an invitation letter, proof of financial means, or round-trip tickets may be required.
• The Italian border officer holds the authority to grant entry. Answering questions about your purpose of visit, duration, and accommodation is common. Ensure your passport is stamped upon entry to avoid fines or detainment.

Who Requires a Schengen Visa for Italy?

You’ll need one if:

• You’re a national of a third country without a visa liberalization agreement with Schengen states.
• You’re a national of a third country with a visa liberalization agreement but were previously denied entry to Italy or any Schengen country.

Types of  Italy Schengen Visa Guide Application and Entry Requirements

• Airport Transit Visa: For transiting through Italian airports.
• Tourist/Visitor Visa: For holidays, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.
• Business Visa: For business-related activities.
• Visa for Official Visit: For official delegations on an official trip.
• Medical Visa: For medical treatment.
• Study Visa: For educational courses up to three months.
• Visa for Cultural, Sports, and Film Crews: For attending related activities.

Required Documents For Italy Visa Application and Entry Requirements

• Italian visa application form.
• Passport-size picture meeting Italy’s photo requirements.
• Valid passport with blank pages and sufficient validity.
• Proof of accommodation and travel plans.
• Schengen travel visa insurance.
• Proof of financial means.
• Proof of civil status.
• For specific cases, additional documents are necessary:
• Employment, self-employment, student, retired, or dependent status documents.

Requirements for minors traveling alone or with adults.

A Special Note for Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Palestine Citizens

Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine, and travel document holders must provide specific documents, including a birth certificate or consular declaration containing parents’ names.

Obtaining an Italy Schengen Visa Guide

To secure an Italian short-stay visa, follow these steps:

• Identify where to apply for an Italy visa.
• Determine the appropriate Italian visa type.
• Complete the application form.
• Collect necessary documents.
• Schedule a visa interview.
• Attend the interview.
• Await visa processing.

Visa Validity and Extensions For Italy Visa Application and Entry Requirements

EU/EEA nationals can stay up to 90 days within 180 days. Visa-exempt passport holders enjoy the same privileges. Nationals of select countries can stay longer by obtaining a residence permit. Extensions are allowed in exceptional cases.

Italy’s enchanting blend of history, art, and natural beauty beckons travelers from across the globe. By understanding its visa application and entry requirements, you can embark on your Italian adventure with confidence. So, whether you’re marveling at the Colosseum’s grandeur or indulging in authentic Italian cuisine, the experience awaits, and Italy welcomes you with open arms.

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VISA OFFICE GENERAL INFORMATION

• Please refer to the documents and requirements necessary for all visa applications which is indicated in detail on the web page of Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation: https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en .
• The visa office e-mail address is [email protected] . Please be advised we are available to assist with any query that is not explained on the webpage. Due to the high volume of emails received we may not answer queries which are addressed or explained on our website.
• It is obligatory to ensure an appointment with us (fully booked on the portal). Please click here to book an appointment before buying any flight ticket or booking hotels. Once the appointment is organized you may book and confirm everything with your planned travel to ensure you have the correct details for the appointment. The Embassy are not responsible for non-refundable tickets.
• Visa collection is organized on Tuesday & Thursday at the time issued by the office during your interview. You can organize directly with the officer (usually 15 days after the appointment).
• You can also bring a pre-paid pre-registered envelope with tracking number on it and your address, and we will gladly post it for you. PLEASE NOTE: Once the passport has been posted, we have no control over how long it will take for it to reach your address.
• Please be advised to book your appointment well in advance. The timeline between the appointment itself and your flight must be no more than 6 months and no less than 15 days before departure. Please ensure when you book any appointment, that you must be in a position to provide all the documentation and requirements valid for the intended dates of travel.

STANDARD DOCUMENTS

The documents that everyone will have to bring in, regardless of the type of visa, are the following:

• E-application form https://e-applicationvisa.esteri.it
• Passport (original + 1 photocopy)
• IRP card (original + 1 photocopy)
• 1 photo (ICAO format) Flight confirmation (round trip)
• Hotel booking confirmation/invitation letter (tourism visit to family or friends)
• Insurance that covers for Schengen area, with a ceiling of € 30.000 minimum
• Current bank account statement
• Cover letter from the employer/letter of support (in case of unemployment)

  PLEASE NOTE:

• The last date of the current bank account statement has to be as close as possible to the date of the interview, and no older than 3 months prior the date of your appointment.
• The pages that we need from your insurance policy are the following: certificate with start date/expiry date, your name on it and the page that states for how much you are covered for with medical expenses.
• If you’re being invited by friends/family to Italy, you must provide the following invitation proof that can be downloaded through https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en indicating reason of travel “tourism – visit to family/friends”.
• Be advised that if you have an appointment for your entire family, including minor children, each applicant must have a copy of the documents.

TYPES OF VISA

To apply for the specific type of visa bring the following documents:

• E-application form https://e-applicationvisa.esteri.it or fill in the paper form ( click here )
• Hotel booking confirmation/ invitation letter (tourism visit to family or friends)
• Insurance with cover for Schengen area, with a ceiling of € 30.000 minimum
• Student letter of financial support also to attach

2. BUSINESS VISA REQUIREMENTS

To apply for this specific type of visa the following documents are essential:

• Hotel booking confirmation/invitation letter
• Business license of Italian company (Visura Camerale)
• As stated on https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en we need you to bring in the invitation letter from the inviting company signed by the legal representative of the company. You will also have to provide a photocopy of his ID.

3. FOR EU FAMILY MEMBERS ONLY

To apply as an EU Family member you must provide proof of the relationship to the European citizen and show the flights/trip details that demonstrate you will be travelling together or joining them in Italy.

Please note that if you have been issued an Irish IRP card with EU FAM stamp 4 you do not need a visa to travel.

The following requirements are strictly for those who have EU Family members and are applying as such:

• 1 photo ICAO format
• Marriage certificate apostilled, (original +1 photocopy) of said document ­or birth certificate (original + 1 photocopy)
• Passport of the EU family member original + 1 photocopy
• Proof of flight booked with both your name and the name of the EU family member

4. TRAVELLING WITH MINORS

If one of the applicants is under the age of 18, and is not travelling with both parents, the other parent is required to provide an additional document of consent:

• Parental authorization to travel for the minor, written and signed by both parents/legal guardians, allowing the minor to travel to the Schengen area (it is valid only for one visa)
• Photocopy of both parents’ passports, if one of them is currently resident in another country the photocopy must be certified
• Original +1 photocopy of the birth certificate of the minor
• A letter of attendance from signed by the Headmaster of the School addressed to the Italian Embassy in Dublin (not older than one month)
• If one of the parents is deceased, the original and 1 photocopy of the death certificate
• If one of the parents is legally deemed as untraceable, a photocopy of a court order indicating so In any case, the minor is required to be present on the date of the appointment.

If travelling on a school tour please follow the below information:

Minor students do not need to apply for a Visa as a Non EU students that are officially resident in a EU country do not require a visa for School trips. Please see the following link https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:31994D0795&from=IT

5. LONG TERM VISA

To apply for the long visa, follow the directions at the following link:

https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en

The terms for issuing national entry visas are set out by Article 5, paragraph 8, of Presidential Decree No. 394 of August 31, 1999 (as amended by Presidential Decree 334/2004), which lays down that the diplomatic-consular Representation, “after assessing whether the application is admissible and carrying out the checks required in relation to the visa requested, including prior security checks, shall issue the visa within 90 days of the application” (30 days for employment, within the quotas envisaged by the so-called 2023-2025 Flows Decree, 30 days for family reunification and 120 days for self-employment). In accordance with the provisions of Article 6, paragraphs 2 and 3, of Ministerial Decree No. 171 of March 3, 1997, these terms may not be respected in the event that checks, verifications and collection of data, documents and evaluations by foreign authorities become necessary.

6. Transit Visa Information

Please note that if you are travelling on a transit flight, it must be booked as an international flight in order to either be to qualify for a transit visa or qualify to be exempt from a visa.

In the case that two separate flights have been booked, either with one airline or with different airlines this does not qualify as international. For example, one flight to Italy and another travelling outside the Schengen area. In this case it is not considered transit.

You will have to enter into Italy and a visa will be requested on arrival. You will pass through the immigration check point and then most likely you will need to check in again.

In order to apply for any transit or tourism visa you must book an appointment and apply with the same criteria as all types of visa. Please note that it takes up to 15 working days to process a visa.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Italy - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution due to terrorism .

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Italy. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Italy.

If you decide to travel to Italy:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Italy.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Six months validity recommended, at least 3 months validity beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area .

Two pages required for entry stamp.

Not required for stays under 90 days.

10,000 Euros or equivalent.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Rome

Via Vittorio Veneto, 121 00187 Rome, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 06-4674-1 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(39) 06-4674-1 Fax:  +(39) 06-4674-2244 Email:   [email protected] The Rome consular district includes the regions of Lazio, Marche, Umbria, Abruzzo, and Sardinia.

U.S. Mission to the UN Agencies in Rome Via Boncompagni, 2 Telephone:  (+39) 06-4674-1 Emergency after-hours telephone:  (+39) 06-4674-1 Fax:  (+39) 06 4674-3535 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy to the Holy See Via Sallustiana, 49 00162 Rome, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 06-4674-3428 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(39) 06-4674-1 Fax:  +(39) 06-575-8346

U.S. Consulate General Florence Lungarno Amerigo Vespucci, 38 50123 Florence, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 055-266-951 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(39) 055-266-951 Fax:  +(39) 055-215-550 Email:   [email protected] The Florence consular district includes the regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna (all except the Provinces of Piacenza and Parma), as well as the Republic of San Marino.

U.S. Consulate General Milan Via Principe Amedeo 2/10 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 02-290-351 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(39) 02-290-351 Fax:  +(39) 081-583-8275 Email:   [email protected] The Milan consular district includes the regions of Valle D'Aosta, Piemonte, Lombardia, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Liguria, and Emilia-Romagna (Provinces of Piacenza and Parma only).

U.S. Consulate General Naples Piazza della Repubblica 80122 Naples, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 081-583-8111 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(39) 081-583-8111 Fax:  +(39) 081-583-8275 Email:  [email protected] The Naples consular district includes the regions of Campania, Molise, Basilicata, Puglia, Calabria, and Sicilia.

U.S. Consular Agent - Genoa Via Dante 2 16121 Genoa, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 010-584-492 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Milan. Fax:  +(39) 010-553-3033 Email:  [email protected] Hours: Monday through Thursday 11:00 AM-3:00 PM, by appointment only.

U.S. Consular Agent - Palermo Via G.B. Vaccarini 1 90143 Palermo, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 091-305-857 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Naples Fax:  +(39) 091-625-6026 Email:   [email protected] Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM-12:30 PM by appointment only.

U.S. Consular Agent - Venice Viale Galileo Galilei 30 30173 Tessera, Italy Telephone:  +(39) 041-541-5944 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Milan. Fax:  +(39) 041-541-6654 Email:  [email protected] Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM, by appointment only.

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.  

Traveling Through Europe:  If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport must be valid for  at least three months beyond the period of stay. Review our  U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
• You will need  proof of  s ufficient funds  and a  return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the  Schengen Visa page.
• U.S. citizens who arrive at an Italian Port of Entry without a valid travel document – including passports that have been previously reported lost or stolen – will be denied admittance into Italy and returned to their point of origin. This regulation is strictly enforced in Italy.
• U.S. citizens may enter Italy for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. All non-residents are required to complete a declaration of presence (dichiarazione di presenza). Prospective residents or anyone intending to stay in Italy for longer than 90 days must obtain a  permit of stay  (permesso di soggiorno). Additional information may be obtained from the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs  and the  Polizia di Stato .
• Non-EU visitors must obtain a stamp in their passport upon initial entry into a Schengen country. Many borders are unstaffed, so you may need to request a stamp at an official point of entry. Travelers arriving from another Schengen country must request the declaration of presence form from a local police office (commissariato di zona), police headquarters (questura), or their place of stay (e.g., hotel, hostel, campgrounds), and submit the form, along with a copy of your passport, to the police or to their place of stay within eight calendar days of arrival. Failure to complete a declaration of presence is punishable by expulsion from Italy.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Italy.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites. For general information about Italian customs regulations, please read our  Customs Information page and our  Italian Customs  website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Politically motivated violence in Italy is most often connected to Italian internal developments or social issues. Italian authorities and foreign diplomatic facilities have found bombs outside public buildings, have received bomb threats, and have been targets of letter bombs, firebombs and Molotov cocktails in the past several years. These attacks generally occur at night, and although they have not targeted or injured U.S. citizens, you should remain aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

Crime:  Italy has a moderate rate of crime, especially for theft and economic crimes; violent crimes are rare. U.S. citizens should be aware of the following local circumstances:

• Tourists can be fined or detained for buying counterfeit goods (usually fashion accessories).
• Travelers must purchase train, bus, or metro tickets and validate them by punching them in validating machines prior to boarding (usually near the entrance of the train or metro or on the bus). Tickets may be purchased at tobacco stores or kiosks or, in some cities, via Apps or SMS. Failure to follow this procedure may result in an on-the-spot fine by an inspector on the train, bus, or metro. If the violator does not pay the fine on the spot, it will automatically double and be forwarded to the violator’s home address.
• Be alert that many municipalities of cities in Italy have issued local restrictions banning certain activities in fountains or on monuments, such as eating, drinking, sitting, or bathing, as well as regarding the consumption of alcohol both indoors and outdoors after certain hours of the night.
• Violating these regulations can result in fines. Tourists are advised to check the official website of each city they plan to visit to learn the details.
• Thieves sometimes impersonate police officers. If you are stopped by a plainclothes policeman, ask for a uniformed officer or insist on seeing an officer's identification card (documento). Do not hand over your wallet and immediately report the incident to the actual police at a police station or by dialing 112 from a local phone.
• Do not leave bags unattended. Most reported thefts occur at crowded tourist sites, at airports, car rental agencies, on public buses, metros and trains, and at the major railway stations. Never leave baggage alone in a car, including in a closed trunk. For more information on trains and security, please see the  Italian railway police’s advice for travelers .
• Be alert to criminal schemes. Organized groups of thieves and pickpockets operate at major tourist destinations, in train stations, bars, and cafes. Some travelers have reported incidents in which criminals used drugs to assault or rob them. Thieves on motor scooters regularly snatch purses or bags off pedestrians. Resisting these thieves can be dangerous.
• Keep your car doors locked and windows rolled up at all times to avoid car-jackings and thefts while you are waiting in traffic.

The U.S. Secret Service in Rome is assisting Italian law enforcement authorities in investigating an increase in the appearance of ATM skimming devices. Here are some helpful hints to protect against and identify skimming devices:

• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or secured inside a bank/business.
• Cover the keypad with one hand as you enter your PIN.
• Look for gaps, tampered appearance, or other irregularities between the metal faceplate of the ATM and the card reader.
• Avoid card readers that are not flush with the face of the ATM.
• Closely monitor your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Potential for Natural Disasters: Several major earthquake fault lines cross Italy, and earthquakes are frequent. High tides in Venice, flooding, and avalanches in mountainous areas may occasionally occur. The Italian Civil Protection agency has a robust capability to assist Italians and foreigners in the area of a natural disaster. Information about crisis preparedness and on-going crises affecting parts of Italy can be found on the Civil Protection web site at:  Civil Protection Italy . General information about disaster preparedness is also available online from the  U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency  (FEMA). Detailed information on Italy's fault lines is available from the  U.S. Geological Survey  (USGS).

Italy also has several active volcanoes, including Mt. Etna in eastern Sicily. Travelers to Sicily should be aware of the possibility for travel disruptions, including airport closures, in the event of volcanic activity, and are advised to check the website of the  Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia  for detailed information and daily updates. Italy has many other areas of potential volcanic activity especially in the vicinity of Naples. Any visit to an active volcano or volcanic field bears a certain amount of risk. Eruptions can occur with little to no warning. Travelers should exercise caution, follow posted instructions, stay on authorized trails, and use reputable tour operators.

Demonstrations  occur frequently and can be anti-American in nature, especially in areas hosting U.S. military bases. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Security Messages for U.S. citizens pertaining to  demonstrations  can be found on the Embassy’s website.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Italy. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/Relative targeting
• Free Trip/Luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should seek medical attention at the nearest public hospital as soon as possible. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are also encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at +(39) 06-4674-1. Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local English-speaking attorneys
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Victim Compensation in Italy :

• Italy has a program which provides financial compensation for victims of terrorism, organized crime, hit and run drivers and violent intentional crimes.
• If you are a  victim of terrorism or organized crime  in Italy, you are entitled to economic (special compensation and a life income) and non-economic benefits (special access to certain state jobs).
• In case of death, victims will include family members. You must file the application with the local Prefect’s office (Prefettura - the local representative for the Ministry of Interior) where the crime occurred, providing the date, location, injuries, and losses resulting from the crime.
• If you are a  victim of a hit and run driver,  you can apply for compensation of damages to the Fondo Di Garanzia per le Vittime della Strada but only if: (i) the responsible vehicle cannot be identified, is not covered by car insurance, or it circulated against the owner’s will; (ii) if the car insurance company went bankrupt; or (iii) if the accident was caused by a foreign vehicle with a license number that does not match or does not match anymore that same vehicle. U.S. citizens should consult an attorney licensed to practice in Italy to clarify time limits for a specific legal action.

Victims of hit and run drivers and their families may seek assistance by reaching out to an Italian non-governmental organization (NGO) called Associazione Italiana Familiari e Vittime della Strada (AIFVS), “Association of Italian Family Members and Victims of Hit and Run Drivers”. AIFVS provides legal and psychological assistance through a network of professionals associated with the NGO. Please visit  AIFVS  for more details.

If you are a  victim of a violent intentional crime,  you are entitled to compensation from the Italian government to cover the medical and welfare expenses you incurred, except for sexual assaults and murders cases where the compensation is due even if no medical and welfare expense was sustained. To be eligible for the compensation, your annual income must be within a certain limit. In addition, you must prove that you have already unsuccessfully tried to enforce the decision ordering compensation for damages. We recommend you contact an attorney licensed to practice in Italy for more information.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or nearest Consulate for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Your U.S. passport will not prevent you from being detained, arrested, or prosecuted. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ RIGHTS:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Italy. Same sex civil unions are legally recognized in Italy. See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance .  The law in Italy prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure, and common in lodging and general infrastructure. There is a significant difference between the main cities and the small towns.

• Rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants, are generally available. Contact the US Embassy in Italy to receive a list of providers.
• Hand-controlled rental cars are available in Italy from major car rental companies. Contact the car rental company well in advance of your trip in order to reserve the vehicle.
• Italy functions on 220-volt current. To recharge a power wheelchair, you may need a transformer to convert 220 to 110 volts and a plug adapter to fit Italian electrical sockets.
• Guide dog owners must present  the documentation required by European Union Member States in order to enter Italy with a dog .

Students:  Students are often targeted by criminals as targets of theft or sexual assault. See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:  Strikes and other work stoppages  frequently occur in the transportation sector (national airlines, airports, trains, and bus lines); reconfirm any domestic and/or international flight reservations if you are traveling during one of these events.

Women Travelers:  If you are a woman traveling abroad, please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Italy, dial 112 .

Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

Medical facilities are available but may be limited outside urban areas. Public hospitals may not maintain the same standards as hospitals in the United States. It is not possible to obtain an itemized hospital bill from public hospitals, as required by many U.S. insurance companies, because the Italian National Health Service charges one inclusive rate for care services and room and board. Private hospitals require you to pay for all services up front and get reimbursed later from your insurance company.

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our  webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

In Italy, end-of-life directives are not legal. Tourists should know that by law, hospitals will continue with lifesaving procedures indefinitely regardless of a person’ preferences stated in a will or advanced directive.

Pharmaceuticals:  The Italian Ministry of Health sets rules defining who and how prescriptions and medications can be imported into Italy. However, the Ministry of Health website does not have information in English. According to the Ministry of Health, foreigners entering Italy are allowed to bring personal medications for a period of 30 days, but it is recommended that travelers also bring a copy of their prescription with them. Travelers should not bring excess supplies of prescription drugs into the country and cannot bring prescription drugs for other people.

The import of medications into Italy by courier services or by mail is strictly regulated by Italian Customs laws. Italian customs clears all incoming shipments of medications, even small amounts for personal use. Delays in the release of medications by Italian Customs received by mail or by courier services are common. The receiving party must be able to provide a statement signed by a physician licensed in Italy, certifying:

The medication is essential for the patient, that he/she would be put in a life-threatening situation without it.

There is no substitute or equivalent medication available on the Italian market.

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with minimal controls. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Many cities in Italy have air pollution levels similar to those in major U.S. cities. 

In parts of Italy, the lack of adequate trash disposal and incineration sites has led to periodic accumulations of garbage. In some cases, residents have burned garbage, resulting in toxic emissions that can aggravate respiratory problems. 

Visit the  European Environment Agency’s website  for information on air quality in Italy.

Health Facilities:

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout Italy, but health services may be below U.S. standards.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards.
• In most cases, patients bear costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

ROAD CONDITIONS AND SAFETY:  While in Italy, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States such as:

• Traffic lights are limited and often disobeyed.
• Motor scooters are very popular, and their riders may behave unexpectedly.
• Drivers frequently pass on superhighways (autostrada) at very high speeds.
• Rural roads are generally narrow, often have no guardrails, and inconsistent speed limits.
• Be careful when crossing streets even when using a marked crosswalk with a green walk (avanti) light illuminated.

Traffic Laws:

• Seat belt use is compulsory.
• You must use headlights year-round and at all times outside of urban areas.
• During the autumn/winter months, it is compulsory to have either winter tires or carry snow chains if driving outside urban areas.
• If you are stopped, under certain conditions you are expected to pay the police officer issuing the ticket immediately. Be prepared to pay in cash in local currency. Local police can confiscate your car if you cannot pay the fine.
• Fines are imposed if driving without the proper permits in historic downtown areas of cities and towns throughout Italy. Cameras photograph the license plates of cars illegally driving in parts of the city that require a permit. The fines imposed for these violations are forwarded to the driver’s home in the United States to request payment. For definitive legal guidance or to contest a fine, you should consult a lawyer licensed to practice in Italy.  See the U.S. Embassy of Rome’s transportation page for more information .
• Public Transportation: Pickpocketing is frequent on all public transportation, especially at train stations and major tourist sites.

See our  Road Safety  page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the website of the  Automobile Club d’Italia  (A.C.I.). For information on obtaining international drivers licenses, contact the  American Automobile Association  (AAA) via telephone at (407) 444-7000 or fax (407) 444-7380.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Italy’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Italy should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Italy . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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• How to get Italy Tourist Visa?
• Europe Visas
• Italy Visitor Visa Requirements, Italy Visitor Visa Application Process

It’s being said you have to spend your life-time to see all of the tourist attractions in Italy. The architecture from the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, endless places to see. The food? That’s a different story. To visit Italy for tourism, you might need an Italy Tourist Visa. In this blog, we will explain if you need this visa or not, requirements, application, validity, fees, FAQs, etc.

In case you want to visit Italy for Tourism purposes, you have to apply for a tourist visa. Italy is one of the members of the Schengen area, so you may have to apply for a Schengen visa. With a Schengen Italy Tourism visa, you can travel to the other Schengen countries as well.

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Italy Tourist Visa

Table of Contents

Who Needs and Doesn’t Need an Italy Tourist Visa?

The answer depends on your nationality. The citizens of a few countries are exempt from Italy’s tourist visa. Yet, some have to apply for it.

The list of the countries who don’t need an Italy Tourist visa is as follows:

• The citizens of EU/EEA
• The citizens of Schengen Area
• Swiss citizens
• The people who have a US passport
• Canadian citizen
• Japanese citizen

In case you have a valid residence permit from:

• A Schengen country
• An EU country
• An EEA country
• The United States of America
• The Principality of Andorra
• the Republic of San Marino

The nationals of these countries are also free of Italy tourist visa. They can visit Italy with their passport up to 90 days:

North America 

South america .

When you have an Italy tourist visa, you do not need an Italy transit visa .

What are the Required Documents for an Italy Tourist Visa?

There are a few general required documents for an Italy tourist visa. But, the requirements may vary according to your nationality and the authorities’ request.

The requirements for an Italy tourist visa are as follows:

• A valid passport.
• Application form.
• Two Photos.
• A copy of your previous visas (if applicable).
• Medical Health insurance.
• Accommodation proof.
• Proof of financial funds.
• Cover letter.
• Copy of your ticket.
• A cover letter.
• Proof of civil status.
• Invitation letter (if applicable).

There are other requirements based on your employment status and if your minors are traveling with you.

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The Application Process for an Italy Tourist Visa

The application process for almost all Italy visas is the same. The first step is to know what type of visa you need. In this case, you already know you need an Italy Tourist visa. Then you should find out if you need to apply for an Italy tourist visa or not. If yes, there are procedures for you to follow:

Complete the application form. Complete the Italy tourism visa application form. Be careful and fill it with correct and exact information. The information you fill in must be the same as your documents.

Gather the Required documents.  Collect the required documents, as we mentioned above. As we said, there are further requirements according to your employment and if your children are traveling with you. Make sure to cover everything. Please keep in mind that Schengen countries are strict with their visa laws. Don’t take anything easy. Try to be careful with even small details.

Figure out where you should apply. Where you can apply and submit your Italy Tourist visa application depends on your country. So you can apply in one of these centers:

• The Italian Embassy/consulate
• A Visa Application Center that Italy has outsourced it.
• The Embassy / Consulate of another Schengen country that the Italian government has outsourced it.

Book an interview. When you found out where to apply, book an appointment online/ through a phone call. How you should arrange the appointment depends on the embassy/center.

Participate in the interview and submit the Italy visa application. When the appointment time has come, get to your appointment in person. Please don’t be late. Your first impression might determine whether you will get the visa or not. Submit the printed and signed application along with the required documents.

Then, you should enter an interview. The visa officer might ask a few questions, including:

• The purpose of your trip
• How you will support your costs.
• Accommodation in Italy
• Your background
• Perhaps personal question

Try to be strong, friendly, and give true answers. Your answers determine the fate of your visa.

Pay the Italy tourism visa fee. Once you submit your application, you have to pay the visa processing fee. The fee for all short-stay visas is the “same,” for instance, Italy’s cultural visa .

Adults have to pay €80. The 6-12 Minors will pay €40, and under six minors are free-charge. Please remember that if you don’t get a visa, your fee is non-refundable.

Wait for Processing. Once you have finished your interview and paid your fees, wait for processing. Italy visa processing takes about 2-3 weeks. Yet, it might get longer. It depends on:

• The embassy or visa center workload
• The country you apply from
• Your special case
• Special circumstances. Etc.

Where Can You Apply for an Italy Tourist visa?

It depends on the country you reside in. If there is an Italian embassy or consulate, you can apply it to them. If not, there may be some Visa Application Centers authorized by the Italian government to do so. Even if this case is not available in your country, you can apply to an Italian embassy/consulate in a neighboring country.

The Italy Tourist Visa Processing Time

The required time for processing an Italy Tourist visa is different. But it often takes 15 days. Yet, due to your special case, it might take up to 30 days. If the embassy or visa center you apply at is busy, it might take longer. The processing time in the tourist season could take even longer.

How Long is the Italy Tourist Visa Valid for?

Lots of people ask: “For how long is my Italy tourist visa valid?”. You should know that it’s valid for 90 days in six months. If you want to know whether you have exceeded your stay limit or not, count the days you have been to Schengen states in the past six months. If it’s more than 90 days, then you have reached your limitations. If you want to stay for longer than this, you have to apply for another type of Italy visa, such as a work visa .

Can You Extend Your Italy Tourist Visa?

YES and NO. If some Force majeure or emergency has come up that you can not leave Italy, then you can extend your visa. Please remember that you have to convince the officials that your reason for staying is urgent. You may not extend your Italy Tourist visa to study, work, or stay with relatives. For each purpose, you have to apply for another visa type from your resident country.

Can You Work in Italy with a Tourist Visa?

NO. You can not work in Italy or any other Schengen state wh an Italy tourism visa. To do so, you have to apply for a visa from your resident country.

Can You Apply for a Resident Permit with an Italy Tourist Visa?

NO. You can not apply for an Italy Resident permit with an Italy tourist visa. The tourist visa is for visiting Italy and Schengen states for less than 90 days. You have to apply for another type of Italy visa from the country you live in.

Do You Have to Buy Health Insurance for Italy Tourist Visa?

YES. Medical health insurance is one of the mandatory documents for a tourist visa. The Schengen states are strict with their laws. Even one single mistake could lead to a visa denial.

Let’s sum up…

In this blog, we explained all the information about the Italy Tourist visa.

If you want to visit Italy for tourism purposes, then you should apply for a Tourist visa.

The people who need a tourism visa, the requirements, the application process, etc. got explained.

You can find all the Italy visa information in the world here.

To find out more about the visa that suits you, go through the menu on the site. You can find all the Italy types of visas on the left sidebar.

You can check the visa library to find more information about other countries’ visas.

In case you have some experience, please write it down in the comment section. Your comments let the readers choose better and avoid mistakes. Conveying your experiences as comments is a great help for applicants.

• Published by
• August 25, 2020

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I’m Japanese. How can I apply for an Italy tourist visa?

Hello there. Your country is on the list of exempt countries, so you won’t need a visa to enter Italy.

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Tourist Visa In Italy: A Simple Guide

Introduction

Ah, Italy—the land of endless pasta, art that’ll make you weep, and tourist visa paperwork. Yes, you heard that last part right.

Before you traipse through Tuscan vineyards or strike a pose with the Leaning Tower, there’s some red tape to cut. Fear not, we’re making this as painless as an Italian espresso shot.

What Is A Tourist/Visitor Visa To Italy?

A Schengan visa allows the individual to travel to all 27 countries associated with the Schengen area. Even if you only want to travel to Italy, you’ll still be allowed to go to the other 26 countries for as long as you possess a Schenegen visa.

A Schengen visa is purely for the purpose of tourism and sightseeing and is issued in the form of a sticker on the individual’s passport.

The visa, under any circumstances, cannot be used for purposes other than that of tourism. You cannot study on the basis of a Schengen visa and can also not apply for jobs. For these purposes, you can either apply for a student or work visa.

Do I Need To Apply For A Schengen Visa To Visit Italy?

Depending on your citizenship/nationality, the individual might not have to apply for a visa if he/she meets certain demands established by the Schengen states. 

There’s a list of above 60 countries which are exempted from applying for a visa to visit a Schengen state.

If an individual does or does not require a visa depends on certain factors:

Starting from 2024, all individuals from visa exempt countries will be required to have travel authorization for the purposes of entering the Schengen countries. The ETIAS is valid for up to 3 years .

How To Obtain An Italy Tourist/Visitor Visa

The following steps summarise the steps you need to go through to apply for a tourist visa for Italy:

• Check if you’re eligible to apply for a Schengen visa or not.
• Plan the trip. In some cases, you might have to verify where you’re staying or who your host is in Italy.
• Gather the correct documents required for you to apply for a visa.
• Complete the visa application form .
• Schedule an appointment for the interview .
• If you’re successful in passing the interview, submit the visa fee and wait for it to be processed.
• After the processing period, you’ll receive a Shengene visa sticker in your passport and will be allowed to travel to Italy.

Italy Tourist/Visitor Visa Application Requirements

The documents required for applying for a Schengen visa are as listed down below:

• Italy visa application form . Completed with all the details required with the individual’s signature at the end.
• The Schengen visa photo criteria required two recent photos of the individual, preferably no older than 3 months.
• A valid passport . It shouldn’t be older than 10 years and should have a 3 month validity period after that of your trip. It should also include at least 2 blank pages for attaching the Schengen visa sticker.
• A document of the itinerary which includes the dates of the flights and flight numbers so that the government can track when you enter and exit the Schengen area.
• Evidence regarding having purchased health insurance up to at least £30000 for the duration of your stay in Italy. 
• Proof of accommodation . Documents showing where you’ll be staying in Italy or showing rent agreement as evidence in case of renting out a place.
• Bank statements are required as proof of your financial stability to demonstrate that you can support yourself. A sponsorship letter will be required in case of the individual being sponsored by a host.
• Evidence of Civil status . This includes your marriage status, birth certificate of your children or death certificate of spouse etc.
• Employer contract
• A signed leave permission slip from the employer
• Income tax return
• Provide a duplicate of your business licence 
• Latest bank statements of the company 
• Enrollment proof
• Proof that the university has no problem with the student travelling.
• Letter of consent from the individuals legal guardians 
• Passport copies of parents/guardians.
• Proof of adoption in case of the individual being adopted.

The Italian government is rather strict when it comes to handing out travel visas so it can be a bit of a hassle to collect all the documentation required. You can visit the visa application centre or the embassy if you need any help.

Where To Apply For An Italy Tourist/Visit Visa?

The place where you’ll be submitting your Schengen visa application depends on where you plan on staying the most. If you only want to visit Italy, then you may have to apply at:

• Their embassy
• One of their consulates
• A visa centre
• The embassy or consulate of any other Schengen state which accepts visa applications for your preferred destination

If you plan on spending all your days in one of the Schengen countries then you’ll have to apply to their respective centres.

If you want to spend an unequal amount of days in multiple Schengen countries then you’ll submit all your forms to the embassy/consulate of the country that you’ll be spending most of your time in.

In case of spending an equal amount of days in each country, submit your application to the visa centre of the country you step in first

When To Apply For A Tourist/Visitor Visa In Italy?

Schengen visa applications take time to be processed by the embassy/consulates. The forms must be submitted as per the proper time allocations:

• Earliest you can apply is six months prior to the trip.
• Latest you can apply is 15 days before the trip.
• It is recommended that you file your application 3 weeks before your trip.

Visa Fees For A Tourist/Visitor Visa

The cost for applying for a Schengan visa are as follows:

How Long Does It Take To Process An Italy Short Stay Visa For Tourism?

Under ideal circumstances, the process should take no longer than 15 working days , although under certain circumstances it may take anywhere between 15-45 business days for your application to be fully processed.

How Long Can You Stay In Italy With A Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa allows the individual to stay in Italy for a maximum of 90 days within a 6 month time duration.

If you plan on staying there for more than 90 days , then you’ll have to apply for an Italian national visa instead.

Can An Italy Schengen Visa Be Converted Into A Residence Permit?

The Schengen visa only allows for a temporary stay in Italy for up to 90 days and cannot be converted into a residence permit.

And there you have it: your quick and (mostly) pain-free guide to snagging a tourist visa for Italy. The Colosseum and Amalfi Coast are practically calling your name.

Italy Awaits!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Types Of Visas In Italy
• Tax Refund In Italy
• Citizenship In Italy

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Tourist visa.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you need to apply for a Schengen Visa and you landed to this page directly from an internet search, please go to the main page of the Schengen Visa Section which contains crucial information about the process to apply for a Visa at this Consulate General.

Documentation required

• Proof of residence within the Toronto consular jurisdiction area : domestic utility bill or driver’s license (original and a photocopy).
• For non-Canadians, proof of legal residence in Canada : Canadian permanent residence card or visa valid for at least three months after the date of re-entry (original and a photocopy).
• For travelers not returning to Canada after leaving the Schengen area : relevant visa or travel document authorizing entry into the Country of destination, and a photocopy.
• Electronic Schengen Visa application form carefully and correctly completed and signed. Please ensure that you leave no blank spaces. If a question does not apply to you, enter N/A (not applicable). Be sure to print the form in high resolution.
• One recent passport-size colour photo (must have been taken less than six months before the application), size 35mm x 40mm, full-face and light coloured background. The face must be correctly centered and must be seen from a front view, with both sides visible. Styled poses (looking over one shoulder, head bowed etc.) are not allowed. The head must be free of all headgear, no hats, scarves, headbands or other decorative objects.
• Your passport, which must be valid for at least 3 months after the visa expiry date , as well as photocopies of the first 2 pages and of visas previously issued, if any. Furthermore, there must be at least two blank pages in the passport.
• Prepaid Xpresspost post envelope (or UPS pre-addressed envelope) with your address already filled (TO) and the Address of the consulate as sender (FROM), and a photocopy of that very envelope, to return your passport .
• The visa fee paid in Canadian dollars . Visa fees can be paid at the counter, preferably by Canadian debit card (credit cards or other digital payments cannot be accepted) or alternatively in cash or through money order/bank draft made out to the Consulate General of Italy in Toronto (Canadian dollars only). Because of the fluctuation of the exchange rate,  fees are subject to change. Please refer to the dedicated page on this website.
• A copy of your round trip flight reservation or ticket and full itinerary . Buying your ticket in advance does not guarantee that a visa will be issued.
• Hotel booking for each day of your stay in the Schengen area, stating the number of reservation, name of the applicant, address, and telephone number of the hotel, OR letter of invitation (declaration of hospitality), signed by the  invi ting person, plus a copy of his/her ID ( in case of person without Italian citizenship, copy of his/her Italian permanent residence permit , “ Permesso di soggiorno’”) . I f you are a member of a group : a letter from the travel agency mentioning the same information as for individuals.
• Documentation in relation to your social and professional status : if dependent worker, letter of employment; for students, University/school confirmation of enrollment for the current year in original; if self – employed, business bank statements (last 3 months), copies of business income taxes, certificates of incorporation; if retired, copy of your retirement compensation from social security.
• Proof of financial means of support (as per Ministry of Interior Directive 1.3.2000 DIRETTIVA 1° marzo 2000 ): last three months bank statements clear ly indicating the name of the holder and salary slips if applicable. If you are financiall y dependent on a family member , you must provide an Affidavit of financial support (templates can be found here ) , together with a copy of his/her picture I D and his/her last three months bank statements.
• A travel medical insurance policy valid throughout the Schengen area. Please unde rline or highlight: your name, the medical emergency expenses coverage (minimum € 30,000) including hospital care and repatriation for medical reasons or in case of death

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ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA Requirements & Application Process (VIA Center)

When we first toured Europe, we visited 16 different countries with a Germany-issued Schengen visa. But to our surprise, there was one destination that totally captivated us — ITALY. This boot-shaped Mediterranean state spoiled us with its delectable cuisine, jaw-dropping architecture, awe-inspiring sights, and enlightening history. We stayed in Italy for two weeks, but we knew from Day 1 that it would not be enough and that a return trip was bound to happen sooner or later.

Sooner, it turned out. Just a couple of years later, we found ourselves collecting all the documents needed to complete another Schengen Visa application. But this time, we were praying to the visa gods of Italy.

This wasn’t the first time we applied for a Schengen visa, but of all our visa applications, this made us the most nervous. Italy is notorious within my travel circles as one of the strictest when it comes to evaluating applications. I can only assume that the main reason is the sheer number of Filipino workers in Italy, around 170,000 documented OFWs plus tens of thousands undocumented. If online sources are to be believed, Italy has one of the highest rejection rates, along with France and Spain. But our plan involved staying in Italy the longest so we had to try.

We’re thankful that we did. As we began preparing, we realized that — yes, it is strict — but the process is also a lot easier and more straightforward. We applied via the PIASI VIA Center (Visa Information and Application Center). No prior appointment needed and no soul-crushing interviews. It was pretty fast too. I was granted a visa after only 4 days!

Anyway, here’s how to apply for an Italian Schengen Visa.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

WHO CAN APPLY FOR AN ITALY-ISSUED SCHENGEN VISA?

Apply for an Italian Schengen Visa only if one of these apply to you.

• You’re going to Italy or Vatican City ONLY and will not visit any other country.
• You will visit two or more Schengen countries but you will stay the longest in Italy.
• You will stay in multiple Schengen countries for exactly the same number of nights, but Italy is your point of entry (first in your itinerary) in the Schengen area.

I noticed that Schengen embassies count the number of nights when determining where the applicant would be staying the longest.

LIST OF ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA REQUIREMENTS

1. valid passport.

• Current passport and previous passports
• Must have at least 6 months validity (as required by Philippine Immigration)
• Must have at least 3 months validity remaining from the target end of the trip or target visa expiry (as required by Italian Embassy)

2. Accomplished Application Form

You can do it online or by hand.

• If online, you can fill it out here .
• If by hand, you can download from here .

Make sure that you don’t leave blanks. If the field does not apply to you, write NA or N/A.

For minors, the form must be signed by BOTH parents.

3. Recent Photo

• Both passport-size and 2×2″ photos are accepted. I submitted 2×2; Vins submitted passport-size. They accepted both.
• Colored ICAO standard photo with white background
• Ears should be visible. Lips must be closed.
• You must be wearing collared shirt or blouse.

4. Introduction Letter

This is highly encouraged. Because there is no interview with the consul or visa officer, you won’t have a chance to explain your purpose of travel in detail or clarify things you think they might find confusing. Having a cover letter can help your case.

Here’s a sample:

5. Proof of Available Accommodations

• Hotel booking under the name of the applicant. You may book from hotel booking websites and choose properties that allow FREE CANCELLATION so you can cancel easily in case the application is denied.

IF INVITED BY SOMEONE IN ITALY

• Letter of invitation. I think the letter has a standard format, but we don’t have a copy.
• Proof of citizenship or permit of stay of the inviting party
• PSA/NSO documents to prove relationship, if the inviting person is a relative. These may be birth certificates, a marriage certificates, or combination of them.

6. Photocopy of Passport Pages

• Photocopy of the bio page (page 2) and last page (In case of Emergency page) of the valid passport
• Photocopy of previous visas and immigration stamps on current and previous passports

7. Proof of Employment

IF EMPLOYED:

• Certificate of Employment
• Approved Leave of Absence
• Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
• Approved Travel Authority (For government workers only. Ignore if not applicable.)
• Professional License Card (PRC Card, only if applicable. Ignore otherwise.)

IF SELF-EMPLOYED:

• Business license/permits
• BIR Registration
• SEC Registration (corporation) / DTI Registration (sole proprietor)
• Financial Statement with Company Income Tax Return
• GIS (General Information Sheet of company, if corporation)
• Articles of Incorporation (if corporation)

The copies of GIS, BIR Plate, and Articles of Incorporation are not in the official checklist, but we were told that they are also required. Thankfully, we had a soft copy of the docs they wanted so we just printed them out at a nearby computer shop and submitted the lacking docs that same afternoon.

IF STUDENT:

• Certificate of Enrolment
• Approved Leave of Absence (if traveling within school months)

8. Proof of Financial Means

• Bank certificate supported by corresponding statement of account or passbook, showing 6 months of account history
• International credit card statements
• Land titles or copy of proof of real estate property
• For minors, proof of financial means of parents or legal guardian

9. Travel insurance

• Minimum coverage of €30,000 (with additional 15-day allowance beyond your travel dates).
• Must be valid and accepted throughout the Schengen area.
• Must be purchased from an accredited company.

PGA SOMPO TravelJOY Plus SUPREME plan is specifically designed for Schengen visa applications. It’s perhaps the easiest insurance to get online. The Poor Traveler readers can also enjoy a special rate when you book on the PGA Sompo website and use the promo code: WORTHIT .

10. Identity Documents

• PSA/NSO-issued birth certificate
• If married, PSA/NSO-issued marriage certificate
• If minor or student, notarized Affidavit of Support signed by BOTH parents
• If minor and not traveling with parents, DSWD Clearance

11. Complete Itinerary

Your itinerary must reflect the dates you indicated when you accomplished the application form. Below is a sample. This is the format I followed. You can also download an editable version here .

12. Flight Reservations

Including outward and return flights. We also submitted all the flights we plan to take within the Schengen area. Make sure your document has a Passenger Registration Number (or reservation number).

To avoid wasting money, DO NOT PURCHASE TICKETS until your visa is approved. You just need to reserve .

Find a travel agency that can reserve flights for you. In our case, we got all our flight reservations from Gazelle Travel and Tours. You can reserve flights here: HOW TO GET FLIGHT RESERVATIONS

13. Visa Fee

Here’s the cost of Short Term Visa (Tourism/Visit) when I applied:

12yo or older = 60€ (P3519) 6-11yo = 35€ (P2053) 5yo or younger = FREE

However, there is a report that visa fees across all Schengen embassies have increased to EUR 80 per applicant.

In addition, you also need to pay the P1450 handling fee charged by VIA PIASI. According to their website and the matrices on site, the handling fee is only P1350, but we were charged P1450. I’m not sure if we were charged an additional P100 for something else.

Anyway, that’s a total of P4969 .

You can get FLIGHT RESERVATIONS, HOTEL RESERVATIONS, and TRAVEL INSURANCE online! We got in touch with Gazelle Travel and Tours, a DTI-registered DOT-accredited travel agency so they could easily offer these services to our readers. For the rates and more info, read: FLIGHTS AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS

Read: FLIGHTS AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS

How to apply for an italian schengen visa, 1. complete the required documents..

Gather all the requirements as listed above. You might also want to download this checklist , so you have an easy reference.

For easier processing, arrange your documents according to the order above. We also arranged the photocopies of our stamps and past visas according to how they appear on our passports.

Although there is no specified paper size, we decided to print all our docs on A4-size paper because it is the European standard.

2. Submit the requirements to the VIA Center.

Here are the addresses and business hours of the PIASI VIA Center in Makati and Cebu.

VIA Center Makati 3F Allegro Center, Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 2284 Metro Manila, Philippines Phone: +632-845-9200 / +632-845-9215 Email: [email protected]

VIA Center Cebu 1004 Keppel Bldg, Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cor Samar Loop, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines Phone: +63-32-412-7447 Email: [email protected]

You can schedule an appointment or you can simply walk in.

If you wish to book an appointment, you may secure a slot by phone. Here are the details:

Appointment Hotline: (02) 845 9200 Call hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am-6pm Closed: Sundays and public holidays

But an appointment is OPTIONAL. You can simply show up at VIA Center. That’s what we did. We simply walked in! They accept visa applications in the following times:

VISA APPLICATION HOURS Monday to Thursday, 8am to 2:30pm Friday, 8am to 1:30pm Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, Public Holidays

If you’re applying in Makati, go to the second floor. Although the main office is on the third floor of Allegro Center, their receiving area for walk-in applicants is on the second floor. Here’s our experience.

• Approach the first counter right after the door. The staff will briefly check your application form and photo.
• Register on their logbook.
• Get a queue number and information form. This short form will ask you about your application and how you want your passport to be returned: by pickup or by delivery.
• Take a comfortable seat and wait for your turn. Use this idle time to fill out the information sheet.
• Once your number is called, approach the counter and submit your documents. They will check each document meticulously so it will take some time. If you choose to have your passport delivered, you will have to take care of it here too. You will be asked to go back to your seat and wait for the Biometrics collection.
• Once called, approach the Biometrics counter where a staff will take your fingerprints.
• Climb to the third floor and find the cashier.
• Make payment! Cash only. Don’t forget your acknowledgement receipt AND official receipt.

That’s it! You’re done! VIA Center will then forward your application to the Italian Embassy, which will be the one evaluating it.

In my experience, the whole processing took 3 hours. It should have been 2 hours, but they said we were lacking a couple business documents so we had to go out, print out those docs, and wait for our turn again.

3. Claim your passport and visa.

When the results are in, you will receive a call from VIA Center telling you that the passport is already with them and that it’s ready for pick up or delivery.

We were told that we can only pick up our passports at these times.

PASSPORT RELEASING SCHEDULE: Monday to Friday, 3pm-5pm ONLY.

We got a call from VIA only 4 days after we submitted our application. This was the fastest Schengen visa application I have experienced! But according to the VIA staff, the average wait is 15 days.

ITALIAN VISA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. how long does the entire italian visa application process take.

According to the VIA staff we talked to, the average is 15 days.

Some take longer. In some cases, applicants have to wait over a month. Some get theirs much shorter — 10 days, 7 days, 5 days.

In our case, the whole thing took only 4 days! Here’s my timeline:

• July 23 (Monday) – Submitted our application at VIA Center Makati
• July 26 (Friday) – VIA informed us that our passports were ready for pickup
• July 29 (Monday) – We picked up our passport

I was super nervous at first because it was too quick, but according to a friend who used to work as a visa officer at a Schengen embassy, it does happen occasionally. It’s probably because this was my fourth Schengen visa and I had been to Italy before.

2. How early should I apply for an Italian Schengen visa?

The earliest you can lodge your application is 3 months (90 days) before your intended travel date . If you apply earlier than that, they will refuse your application and tell you to return at a later date.

Update: There is a report that you may now apply as early as 6 months before the trip, but I haven’t confirmed this yet.

3. How long is the validity of the Schengen Visa?

Depends on the itinerary you submit. The Embassy will decide based on your itinerary so take it seriously. Don’t make dummy itineraries. Make sure it’s really your plan.

4. Should I apply for a single-, double-, or multiple-entry visa?

Again, it depends on your itinerary and flight reservations. If your itinerary/flight reservations suggest you’re going out of the Schengen zone and then returning after, then apply for a double-entry visa. If you plan to go in and out of the zone many times, then go for the multiple entry visa.

Don’t apply for a multiple-entry visa if you intend to stay in Italy the entire time. There is no need for your visa to be multiple and will probably just raise more questions.

5. How much money should I have in the bank to get approved?

The embassy doesn’t disclose the exact amount they need to see on your financial documents. It also depends on the length of your stay and what you plan to do.

I add the cost of all the flights and hotel reservations I submit and then add 60 euro per day of stay in Europe. Some embassies require USD50 per day, some USD 55 per day. But to be safe, I use EUR60 per day.

Once I have the sum of it all, that’s what I consider the minimum amount that I should have in my bank account. MINIMUM. I make sure I have much more funds that that because the embassy will have a very hard time believing that you are willing to spend all your money on this trip.

Because of this, my personal rule is P10,000 per day of stay + cost of flights + cost of accommodations.

6. What are the reasons why my Schengen visa application would be denied?

This applies not just to the Italian Embassy but also other Schengen embassies:

• You can’t prove that you intend to return to the Philippines . You probably don’t have a stable job at this point, newly employed, or newly resigned, and it’s giving the impression that you plan on staying longer than your declared duration.
• You can’t prove that you can financially afford this trip. You or your sponsor may not be in a good financial standing.
• Your documents are inconsistent. Your application form may be stating one thing, but your supporting documents may be suggesting another.
• Your purpose in Italy or Europe is unclear or dubious . This is why it is best to be specific when you’re detailing the reasons for your visit.

We have more detailed explanations in this post: COMMON REASONS WHY VISA APPLICATIONS ARE DENIED!

7. Do I really need flight tickets before applying?

No, you don’t need to plane tickets. If anything, you are DISCOURAGED from purchasing plane tickets so you won’t waste money in the event that your application is rejected.

Actual tickets are NOT a requirement. What you can submit is a so-called FLIGHT RESERVATION , which is different from actual tickets. “Reservations” are just proof that you have blocked these plane seats. Some airlines can hold the booking for you.

Travel agencies can also issue flight reservations. If you don’t have time to go to a travel agency, you can have it reserved online.

Our go-to travel agency for flight reservations (and travel insurance) for visa application is Gazelle Travel and Tours , a DTI-registered and DOT-accredited agency. We created a form here so you can contact them completely ONLINE:

MORE INFO: Flight and Hotel Reservations

8. do i need to submit the original copies of the documents.

VIA Center urges applicants to bring both the original and a photocopy of all documents. However, not all of the original copies will be kept by them.

Some requirements call for original copies like passports, bank certificates, birth certificate, and certificates of employment.

For others like land titles and business registration docs, they will only get the photocopy. But they will check the original copies for verification that the photocopies are indeed true copies of the original.

9. I’m applying with a group/family. Do I need to provide a copy of every document for each member?

YES. Schengen visa applications are assessed individually . According to the VIA Embassy website, each applicant must have their own set of requirements.

For example, if there are 4 members of the group/family and all of you will be using the same bank account as proof of funds, you can use that one bank account but provide 4 original copies of the bank certificate, one for each member.

10. Is personal appearance required?

Most of the time, YES.

Part of the process is Biometrics collection, in which they need your fingerprints, so the applicant must be there. However, according to the VIA staff that processed my bio, some applicants who have existing biometric records in the Schengen system may not need to show up. But because it’s hard to tell whether the copies are reliable, they still strongly recommend to personally appear to submit biometrics.

I had my biometrics collected when I applied at the Greek Embassy just over a year ago, but I was still asked for fingerprints.

11. I am visiting European countries outside the Schengen Zone and then re-entering the zone after. What should I answer to the “Indicate number of days” field on the application form: the total number of days in Europe or just the number of days within the zone?

I had this same problem. Our plan was to spend 46 days in Europe but only 22 of those would be spent within the Schengen area: 18 days initially then we’ll go out and re-enter the zone again and spend 4 more days inside.

Initially, I entered the total number of days in Europe, 46 days. But the VIA Center staff told us to write the number of days within the Schengen area, 22 days. But because I had already written 46 days, she instructed us to just add (22 DAYS IN SCHENGEN) , enclosed in a parenthesis, by hand. So my final answer was 46 DAYS (22 DAYS IN SCHENGEN) .

I’m not sure if that’s right. I just followed their instructions. We were still granted a suitable visa, so I guess it was okay.

12. On the Schengen Information section (Page 5) of the VIA online application form, what if I have more than one visas?

On Page 5 of the VIA application form, one field asks: “Schengen issued during the past 3 years?” It’s followed fields where you’re supposed to enter the validity dates of the past visas.

The problem is, it seems to be impossible to enter more than one visas.

What I did is, I just entered the validity dates of the latest Schengen visa that I had.

13. On the Fingerprint Information section (Page 6) of the VIA online application form, what am I supposed to answer?

There are only two fields on that page. Here’s what I answered:

• Fingerprints collected previously for the purpose of applying for a Schengen visa for the past 3 years? – If you have applied for a Schengen visa before and the embassy (any Schengen embassy) collected your fingerprints within the past 3 years, answer YES. I answered YES because I remember the Greek Embassy took my biometrics 2 years ago.
• Finger Print Validity. – I don’t know what to answer here exactly, but I just entered the date my fingerprints were last collected by a Schengen Embassy.

14. What to answer to the PERMIT INFORMATION section (Page 7) of the VIA online application form?

I was perplexed by this too because there was no description. I didn’t know what to answer.

Thankfully, I found a Schengen Visa Application Form guide on the website of the French Embassy! The French to the rescue!

According to it, it’s specifically asking for: Entry permits for the final country of destination , where applicable.

“Fill this space only if you do not have the nationality of your country of residence and present your visa or your permit with a photocopy.”

Because I am a Filipino residing in the Philippines, it means it doesn’t apply to me. So I ticked NO .

15. On the Members Information section (Page 9) of the application form, there are tick boxes that read “by a applicant”, “by a sponsor”, and “means of support”. What are these?

The header of that section is missing. You’re supposed to fill in the blank. What it’s actually asking is this: “Cost of travelling and living during the applicant’s stay is covered ______.”

If you will be shouldering your travel expenses, tick “BY APPLICANT.” Then choose the means of support that you will be using. DO NOT tick the “BY A SPONSOR” box. That’s only for sponsored applicants!

16. What does an Italian Schengen Visa look like?

17. i earn this much per month, have this much funds in my bank account, have visited these countries and have these supporting documents. will my application be approved.

I have no idea. No one and nothing can guarantee visa approval beforehand. The only person who can answer this question is the visa officer evaluating your application.

You can be adequately prepared for it, but sometimes, we just don’t know what the eff is going to happen.

Sometimes, no matter how qualified or how adequately prepared you are, you can still end up denied a visa. I have heard about cases wherein I just couldn’t figure out what went wrong. I have a friend who has a great travel history, financial records, rootedness proof. Everything was great, in my opinion. And yet her application was denied. And it’s not exclusive to Schengen visa. I know another who was applying for a Japanese visa for the third time. He meets all the items of someone who would surely be guaranteed approval, but was refused a visa, too.

18. What other countries can I visit using an Italian Schengen visa?

The Schengen Visa is a travel document that allows the holder to enter any of the 26 states that are part of the Schengen agreement. Think of it as an almost all-access pass to many countries in Europe, eliminating the immigration borders within the Schengen zone and the hassle of having to apply for a visa for each individual country. These are the countries who are part of the Schengen Zone:

Some non-Schengen countries like Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey also accept double- or multiple-entry Schengen visas (with certain conditions about the visa types and length of stay, among others).

For more Schengen Visa Frequently Asked Questions, check out this post: Schengen Visa for Filipinos

This article is based on my own Schengen Visa application (Tourist) via PIASI VIA Center, the official service provider of the Embassy of Italy. If you have inquiries about anything outside my personal experience, I’m afraid I won’t be of help. However, feel free to post questions in the comments section below because some of our readers might know better.

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Fell in love with Italy on my first visit. I also have that feeling na kailangan kong bumalik ng Italy. Anyways, congrats on another Schengen Visa and Enjoy! Please italian dish for me❤️

Thanks, Ailea! We’re super excited to return! :D

Very informative and helpful. Thank you!

For the hotel reservations, you said it should be under the applicant’s name, and each applicant must have his/her own set of required documents for submission. But what if we are travelling as a family and booked a family room; can they also use the hotel reservation that is under my name? Thanks, Yoshke!

Hi Laila, I think okay lang. I-explain mo na lang sa letter. Ganun din yung sa amin ni Vins eh. Lahat ng hotels namin ay under my name, pero inexplain ko sa letter. We used just one letter na dalawa kaming signatories but tig-1 copy each kami na sinubmit. :)

Tip: If you are booking via booking.com there is a part “Guest Name” where you can specify the names of the guest, just put comma (, ) in each name, this way your hotel booking will show the names of all guest in a single hotel booking. That’s what i did when i applied visa for my mom.

Oooooooh! Thanks for sharing this!

Didn’t know this! Will try this next time!

hi. thank you for sharing. its very informative. my question is what additional documents are needed if one of the spouses is not employed, but is financially capable of travelling? thanks.

I’m a bit confused. Is it you who will be traveling but your trip will be sponsored by your spouse? Or is it your spouse who will be traveling? If it’s the latter, will you be sponsoring your spouse’s trip?

i got a schengen . visa already through Norway last 2014 i wasnt . able to . use my visa since i got . tied in my . schedule in USA is . that . gonna affect my . new application in Italian Embassy since i will be staying here longer

Hi Luisa, I’m not familiar with the complications of an unused Schengen visa if meron man. :S

Thanks for sharing your wealthy information,this is an useful article for all people

Hi! In your checklist, i saw you listed “Notarized affidavit of support” for means of support for students. Does it really need to be notarized? Thank you so much for this article btw very informative

Hi Andrea, i haven’t tried applying for or as a student, but that’s what the official checklist states, so i guess it has to be notarized.

Ok thank you again!

Hello po! Thank you very much for this very informative blog. I just have a question po on the intro letter. Me and my fiance are travelling this December and will be getting married this December yet too. This trip will be for our honeymoon. Since we have to apply for a visa now, technically we have to put single as status and leave the Philippines as married. Would there be any complication if we put honeymoon as reason in our letter? Thank you in advance.

I submitted my application just yesterday via the VIA center but I forgot that I have a flight on Oct 22 to Singapore.

They are saying that it will take around 15 working days for visa processing. Do you know of many instances where the visa was released around 4-5 days after submission?

Hi Jan Si, is it your first trip to the Schengen area? Did you receive your passport back with your visa yet?

In my case, it only took 4 days.

There are a few members of our Support Group who got theirs in under 5 days too.

Thank you for this blog. This gives me ideas about applying for the VISA.

I just want to ask, Sir if Financial Statement from my bank is still needed even though someone will shoulder all of my expenses in Italy? Does the Sponsor Letter not enough?

Thank you .

Yep, they will look for financial statements ESPECIALLY if you’re sponsored.

We explained the reason for that here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2019/07/visa-immigration-boyfriend-girlfriend/

Hi! Do you know any embassy in Cebu which I can apply Schengen Visa? And is it possible to apply for a schengen visa for 30 days even though it will be my first time? I am planning to visit Europe in May 2020 with a planned entry in Paris. Thank you for your information

Hi Melody, naku, wala akong contact na travel agency sa Cebu. :(

Hi sir, ask ko lang po pano po gawin ulit since denied po application sa Italian embassy kahapon.. i need your thoughts lang po to advise me, what po mag apply ako ulit, since yung dating strong ties ko is my business pero hindi kasi yun naka register sa BIR kasi hindi kasi yun sakin na land or place nakiki business lang ako dun, kaya proof ko lang sa business na yun ay Brgy. Business permit lang at DTI, sa next application ko po ilalagay ko parin po ba yun na business ko? Since wala naman ako ibang work kundi yun lang po. Or baka kasi ma dedisapprove na naman ako since hindi kasi yun naka register sa BIR hinanapan kasi ni officer ng BIR sa business na yun . Need your advice lang po. Salamat sa mga sagot..

Hi July, naku, mahirap nga yan kasi pag yung proof of income or employment ang concern, mahigpit talaga sila.

You can try applying at another embassy na mas maluwag, pero baka maging problem pa rin talaga yung business mo since kulang ng documents.

Hi, so d ko masyado na gets to.

Pero if ng apply kame ng France VISA, then gusto namen pmnta ng ibang Schengen state. Should we need to inform the French Embassy? or upon getting the VISA automatic n un n pede kame pmnta kun san san? Thanks po.

If may Schengen visa ka na, pwede ka na pumunta anywhere within the Schengen zone basta within the validity period and allowed length of stay.

Hi Yoshke, hope you are well. just want to ask if we also need to book train tickets in italy when applying for schengen visa?or we can just indicate in our itinerary that we will buy train tickets when our visa is approved?and can we buy them in the train stations on the same date we travel?

Hi Anna, in our case, we didn’t submit train tickets. We only submitted the flights to and from Europe and flights WITHIN Europe, since may mga legs na lilipad talaga. Pero di kami nagsubmit ng train tickets. Not sure if ganun sa lahat or we just got lucky.

Did you submit confirmed flight details within schengen? Or just reservations lng? Wer po pwede mag avail? We are also planning to take the night train from Rome to Munich. Do we have to purchase the train tickets as well?

I submitted flight reservations to and within Schengen, not confirmed tickets. More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/06/flight-hotel-reservations-visa-application/

I didn’t submit train tickets, though. Only flights.

Hi Yoshke, ok thanks sa reply :) another concern ko is yong husband ko is from myanmar and im here sa singapore ,nsa pilipinas xa (balikbayan visa holder)and dun xa mag aapply ng schengen visa,meron xang small business,talyer sa harap mismo ng bahay namin at nag bubuy and sell din xa,pede na kya un as source of income nia?wala xa BIR or ITR or whatever e,brgy permit lng ang meron siya,(in his name)but meron din xa sarili bank account which have enough funds.pede q nmn din siguro isama sa requirements nia ung funds ko?what do you think?we also owned properties.

I don’t know for sure, pero I think okay lang na isama yung funds mo kasi you’re married naman. If ako nasa position mo, I would probably write a letter explaining everything and that you’re traveling together.

Hindi ko alam how much it would help because the Italian Embassy is known for being very strict. But yun ang gagawin ko. That’s just me.

thanks so much Yoshke..cross fingers we’ll get the visa!merry christmas!

Happy Holidays! And good luck with your application.

Hello! I just want to say thank you because this article helped us in our visa application. My boyfriend & I applied last November 13, and our visa got approved last week of November. Italian embassy is very strict pero ‘pag complete naman requirements, there’s nothing to worry. Thank you!! Keep on helping. :)

hello, tnong ko lng po base sa experience nyo, nkatnggap b kau ng call gling sa italian embassy n ready na ung visa nyo? 2 weeks n kc akong nag aantay wla prin akong nrereceive na notif. thank you

Yes po. We received a call from VIA po na pwede na iclaim.

Congrats, Maria!

Saan kayo sa Italy punta?

Hi, hope you can help me. Would like to apply for a Schengen visa (still deciding which country where we were staying the longest.) My concern is, I am working as a freelance and just registered sa BIR last Oct so no ITR yet. I will be travelling with my ‘fiance’ and our minor daughter who were both US citizen (US passport) and does not need a visa to travel in Italy, Poland or Schengen zone. Of course my ‘fiance’ will be paying for everything. My question is how should I go about my visa application? Since my ‘fiance’ is paying for everything, can I just submit all his financial documents instead of mine?

I’d really appreciate your answer as we planning to travel next year around July. We have traveled together but only in Singapore and Thailand.

Yes, you can submit his financial docs but you will also need to submit yours. Hihingin pa rin nila yung sayo kahit sponsored.

But to be honest with you, I feel like the odds are against you. Schengen Embassies in general are much stricter sa sponsored applicants tapos working as freelance without ITR. If you want to still try, you can naman, but here’s my advice:

– Choose a less strict embassy. Given your situation, I think mahihirapan ka if mag-apply ka sa Italian or Spanish Embassy. – Submit an Affidavit of Support, notarized, and signed by your fiance – Submit proof of relationship. Since you have a child, I think you can submit the child’s birth certificate showing that you two are the parents – Submit more proof of travel history. Aside from the stamps, you can submit your photos together when you traveled to Thailand and Singapore. – Submit a cover letter

If I were in your shoes though, i-build ko pa muna yung travel history ko. I would visit other visa countries first na less strict before ako mag-Schengen. (Yun actually yung ginawa ko.) Thailand and Singapore kasi ay parehong visa-free. Makakatulong kasi if meron kang visas from other countries kahit Japan, Korea, or Australia lang.

It’s going to be an uphill battle. But I hope this helps.

Ito ay sa tingin ko lang po. Best to consult pa rin a travel agency kasi mas alam nila.

Good luck!!! Balitaan mo kami please if mag-apply kayo para makatulong din sa ibang readers. Hope na ma-approve! :)

just want to ask is it better to apply sa VIA center compared if i apply directly sa embassy ng italy? sayang din kasi yung fee na ibabayad sa VIA ehh. Although baka mas helpful ba mag check ng requirements beforesubmitting it sa VIA center?

Thanks in advance!!

Hi James, we haven’t tried applying directly so I can’t compare. But based on what I heard from friends who have, I think it’s less stressful to apply sa VIA. Sa VIA kasi, they will guide you talaga and tell you pag may kulang or need pa for better chances of approval.

Hi, was wondering if you’d know this. If you submitted your application thru VIA, will you be notified of the status by VIA as well? Or the embassy will be the one to inform you? Will it be via a text message, a phone call or email? Thanks in advance! :-)

Hi Satchiko,

In our case, VIA informed us. :)

Hi, do you know if there’s any chance na pwedeng i pull out yung passport ko from the application in case the processing takes too long? I have another scheduled trip next month to South Korea. I’ll submit on Jan 13 and my trip to KR is on Feb 7. Or do you think it’s possible to request for expedited processing? Thank you!

Hi – i followed all your instructions. my flight is on 28 April arriving France on 29 April where I will meet my 2 Canadian Citizen sisters. We will be staying most in Italy in our 12-day stay including our 7-day Italy-Adriatic Western Mediterranean cruise.

I have complete documents already including confirmed cruise booking, hotel accommodation and plane ticket to France.

Do you think i can file my application/complete documents on Monday 27 January 2020 – since I will already be in Makati on this date.

I am a senior citize living and working in Muntinlupa City

thanks – Mrs. Cris

Di ko po alam sa ngayon. There was news that they would be extending the application period to 6 months before the trip, but I don’t know if that has been implemented yet. :S

How did you submit trains/plane reservations within schngen area? Do we really have a confirmed reservation? Or just right the time/date that we are planning to take? Thanks in advance!

Plane reservations, I submitted. (Not confirmed tickets. Just flight reservations.)

But for the trains, I just indicated the ones I wanted to take in the itinerary. I didn’t submit tickets.

I read your article as my guide prior to submitting my requirements to VIA. Once you received a call from them, will they tell you right away if your visa has been approved or denied?

Thank you! :)

Hi CJ, nope. They will only tell you that your passport is ready for pickup. They won’t say if approved or denied. You’ll only find out upon pickup.

Hi! Just for Info. New visa fee is Euro 80 for adult

Thanks for sharing!

Hi Yosh, planing to apply once better situation na. I read in the requirements na they need flight/trains bookings upon application.. ” If travelling across Schengen countries, please submit bookings of all trains, flights and car rentals from one country to another.”

Since we can apply visa 180 days before the expected date of arrival pa Do you know a way to book (not purchase) train reservations?

I will surely use this as a guide hopefully (when miss rona stops being a diva) for my next year’s solo summer trip in Europe. I’ll apply via VIA center in Cebu. I want to stay in Italy the longest. This will be my first time traveling to Europe and a non-visa free country. I’ve been to visa-free countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia and Cambodia. I just registered as a freelancer last May 2020. Do you think the odds will be in my favour?

Very informative blog!

Hi,we are a family of 6, planning to get a shengen visa. Is it ok to make the same cover letter for each member? I have a business that will support the family’s trip. However, my husband is currently not working anymore. Although we travelled as a family, to the US several times and other asian countries already. Wil it be a problem for him being unemployed?

I think that’s OK. When we apply as a group, we only use 1 cover letter with all our names and signatures. Then each of us submit a copy of that letter.

Regarding your other question, since it’s a family trip and you’re married and you’re traveling with him, I think they would be less strict since the purpose of the trip is very clear (assuming your docs are all good and your own finances can support all of you). But that’s just my take on it.

Thank you so much for the quick reply. I realy liked your blog, very informative.

Hi po! Required po ba sundin yung itinerary na isa-submit? Planning to spend 12 days in Rome, Milan, Assisi, and Sicily po kasi. Praning lang ako baka suspicious sa kanila yung andami kong pupuntahan so I thought of not putting it na lang sa itinerary na ibibigay for VISA.

Hi James! OK lang naman po yung maraming pupuntahan, as long as realistic naman. :)

Pwede namang mag-deviate from the itinerary, lalo na if within Italy lang din naman. Once you’re inside kasi, there is no way din naman to track it.

Even mag-flight po within the country ok lang na hindi i-include?

Sa case namin, we submitted lahat ng flights namin even within Schengen Zone. Wala naman kaming flights within Italy lang since ang dineclare namin dun ay mag-train or bus lang kami. (Pero di kami nagsubmit ng train/bus booking.)

Hi po ulit! Regarding naman sa travel dates, need po ba sundin yung in-indicate during VISA application?

As long as within the allowed period indicated sa actual visa.

Thanks for the awesome article! Is the Certificate of Leave of Absence optional? I will be providing Certificate of Employment and ITR documents.

Sa case namin, if my memory serves me right, hiningi sya talaga. Di ko lang alam if ganun din sa iba.

ma dali lang po ba ang pagkuha ng re entry visa?i almost 15years in italy last year nag bakasyon ako ang malapit nko bumalik uwe pero naaksidente nmn ako…

have you gone into an interview upon submission of requirements?

For Italian Schengen Visa, no. There was just someone from VIA who checked our requirements.

Question lang yung sa Proof of Financial means lahat ba yun kailangan? tas need ba under our name yung sa land titles?and we dont have credit card kasi,

Yung bank cert and bank statements ay required. ‘Yung ibang items under it ay kung meron ka lang.

Hi. Do you have experience in appealing an Italian schengen visa denial? Is it advisable to appeal a denial? Or would it be better to apply to a different schengen country?

Do I need an approved leave of absence during summer break? Usuallu we are free naman to have vacation at this period of time (Public Teacher) Is my profession enough considered as a rootedness proof?

Hello po! I have been previously granted a Schengen visa by the French embassy nung 2015 pero I lost the passport na. Should I mention that po sa cover letter?

If I were in your position po, I would mention it. Do you have a photo or soft copy of that visa?

Hello po! I have a copy but altered siya (read: redacted yung info as I sent a pic of it to a friend). So, yung ginawa ko na lang is in-attach ko yung orig copy nung insurance ko for that previous trip. We submitted our app last May 25 and we have yet to hear from them.

Hello! Just wanted to ask if you were required to present an approved Leave form when you applied for a Germany-issued Schengen visa? I am planning to apply for a Schengen visa and will stay in Germany the longest. Thanks.

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Italy Schengen Visa: Requirements & application

How to apply: schengen visa.

Complete our user-friendly online application in just 20 minutes, or feel free to take breaks and return at your convenience.

Move closer to an approved visa with our team of iVisa Experts, who not only review your answers but also provide you with the necessary tools to prepare.

Make use of our feedback and free templates to confidently submit accurate information, and experience a surprisingly stress-free process!

Once government-approved, your visa will be ready for collection, marking the start of your travels.

Learn More: Schengen Visa

What you need to know.

With the Italy Schengen Visa, you can stay in Italy and the entire Schengen Zone for a maximum of 90 days per entry

With the Italy Schengen Visa you can do tourist and business activities, short studies, sports, medical treatments, visit friends/family

We suggest you apply early, as it can take up to 4 months to get an interview appointment due to limited slots

All you need to know about the Italy Schengen Visa

Last updated: April 2024

We currently don't offer this visa, but you can find more information on the Italy Embassy website .

Join our waitlist to be notified as soon as we offer this visa.

Keep reading for more info about the Italy Schengen Visa and the requirements to apply.

What is the Italy Schengen Visa?

The Italy Schengen Visa is one of the most sought-after visas to the Schengen area. It allows travelers to explore Italy and other Schengen member countries without thinking about border crossings or obtaining separate visas for each country on your itinerary.

With the Italy Schengen Visa, you can visit the following Schengen states:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Italy has to be the country in which you will spend the most time during your visit to the Schengen Zone.

What can I do with an Italian Schengen Visa?

Visit Italy and the Schengen Area for tourism and visit family and friends

Make stopovers at an airport in the Schengen zone

Attend business meetings, conferences, or other business activities

Do a short recreational course

Play sports

What can I not do with an Italian Schengen Visa?

Do remunerated business (paid work)

Receive medical treatment

Marry or register a civil partnership

Study for an extended time or participate in a traineeship

Who requires the Italy Schengen Visa?

European residents and nationals of Schengen countries have the privilege of exploring the Schengen Zone visa-free.

However, most other foreign travelers must go through all the requirements and interview procedures to obtain a Schengen visa.

Children or minors are also required to apply for a Schengen Visa to visit Italy if they come from an eligible country. Both parents must sign the application form, and additional documents may be necessary, such as a birth certificate.

Additionally, passport holders from the following countries can visit the Schengen zone without a visa :

• United States
• United Kingdom
• New Zealand

How long can I stay in Italy with the Schengen Visa?

You can visit Italy and the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period .

The Italian authorities make the final decision if you receive a multiple-entry, double-entry, or single-entry visa. Multiple-entry visas can be issued from 180 days to a maximum of 5 years.

Required documents to apply for the Italy Schengen Visa

Some of the documents you need for the Italy Schengen Visa application:

A copy of a valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned arrival date.

Proof of your travel plans: This can be a return ticket to your home country or confirmed hotel reservation(s).

Proof of sufficient funds: Show evidence that you can support yourself during your stay in Europe. You can do this by providing bank statements or a letter from your employer stating your income.

Travel/medical insurance: This travel health insurance must cover medical expenses up to €30,000 and repatriation in case of an emergency.

Two passport-size photos

Visa application form: The official application form with the 2D BARCODE that contains all the information of your specific application, should be correctly and honestly filled out, printed, and signed.

Additional documents: Proving your professional and social status (if applicable).

You may need to provide additional documents for any dependents traveling with you, such as children.

Those who meet these basic requirements should have no problem getting their Italy Schengen Visa applications approved.

How to apply for the Italy Schengen Visa

To get the Italy Schengen Visa quickly and easily, apply through the Italian Embassy or Consulate near you and follow their instructions.

An interview is usually part of the process.

Costs and processing time of the Italy Schengen Visa

There is a government fee of about US$85 (can differ per nationality) that must be paid during your appointment (half-price for children between the ages of 6 and 12, free for kids under 6 years old).

You won’t need to pay the government fee if you are a foreign spouse of a French national or a foreign member of a family composed of members of the EU or EEA.

Do I need an Italian Schengen Visa if I’m transiting through the country?

Transit Schengen visas are issued to some nationals who only want to enter the Schengen area to change transportation means.

There are two transit visa categories:

Airport Transit Schengen Visa

Transit Schengen Visa for Seafarers

Check with your nearest Italian Embassy if you require a transit visa.

Entry requirements and restrictions in Italy

COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine are not required to enter the Schengen Zone and Italy.

Where can I learn more?

If you want to learn more about the Italy Schengen Visa or have questions about the application process, we’re here to help.

Our dedicated online team of customer service agents is available via online chat to answer any questions you may have, or you can contact us on WhatsApp .

The Italy Schengen Visa offers a stay of a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period, from the moment of arrival in Italy.

A multiple-entry visa can be issued with a validity between 180 days and 5 years. The government decides this based on your circumstances.

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Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale

Ricerca sito live, entry and residence visa into italy.

At the end of a gradual process of adaptation to the common visa policy laid down in the Convention Implementing the Schengen Agreement, Italy entered the Schengen system on October 26, 1997.

The strengthening of the common external border was therefore followed by the parallel and gradual abolition of internal border controls. Hence the so-called Schengen Area was achieved with full freedom of movement throughout the countries of all the signatories to the Schengen Agreement.

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