Italy, known for its delectable cuisine, stunning architecture, rich arts and culture, and an outstanding healthcare system, has become a highly sought-after destination for people worldwide. With the Italy visit visa, individuals can enter Italy to reunite with family and friends residing in the country.

What is Italy Visit Visa?

The Italy Schengen visit visa permits individuals to visit Italy for the purpose of reuniting with family members and friends. It is classified as a Schengen visa, allowing for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is available in single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry formats. However, nationals of Schengen countries and visa-exempt nations for Italy do not require a visa.

How to Apply for Italy Visit Visa?

To apply for the Italy visit visa, follow these steps:

1. Download the Application Form: Obtain the Schengen visa application form from the website of the Visa Application Centre (VAC).

2. Complete the Form: Fill in the application form offline, ensuring to type it and then print it. Specify your purpose of visit as “visiting family/friends.”

3. Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment for visa application submission and biometric data collection at a VAC. This can be done online or by contacting the VAC.

4. Submit Your Application: Visit the VAC with your completed application form, supporting documents, and payment of fees. Ensure you provide genuine documents and accurate information, as submitting fake documents or false information can lead to visa rejection.

If you’ve already submitted biometrics for a Schengen application in the past five years, you may not need to repeat the process, and attending the appointment in person may not be necessary.

Eligibility for Italy Visit Visa

To be eligible for the Italian visit visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Reside in the country where you are applying for the visa. If you hold a residence permit in a foreign nation, you may apply from that country.
• Possess a valid passport meeting specific requirements.
• The primary purpose of your visit should be to reunite with family members or friends living in Italy.
• Have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Italy. If sponsored by family or friends, you must provide evidence of their ability to support you.
• Be invited by your family member or friend residing in Italy.
• Apply for the permit if:
  • Italy is your sole destination, or
  • Italy is one of your multiple Schengen destinations, with the majority of your stay planned in Italy, or
  • Italy is your port of entry.

Documents Required for Italy Visit Visa

The following documents are necessary for an Italy visit visa:

• A valid passport with at least two blank pages.
• Passports older than 10 years are not accepted.
• Passport validity of at least six months from the date of travel.
• Previous passports, if applicable.
• A covering letter:
  • Including the applicant’s basic details.
  • Clearly stating the source of funds for your stay.
  • Specifying the purpose and duration of the visit.
  • Addressed to the Embassy of Italy.
• Invitation letter from your family member or friend in Italy, providing visit details.
• Travel itinerary and documents:
  • A detailed travel itinerary.
  • Round-trip flight tickets.
  • Proof of accommodation.
• Medical travel insurance covering at least €30,000.
• Proof of occupation:
  • If employed:
    • Employment contract copy.
    • Employee ID card copy.
    • Letter from the employer sanctioning leave for the travel period.
    • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the company.
  • If a student:
    • Leave letter from the educational institution.
    • Proof of student status.
  • If self-employed:
    • A copy of the business license.
    • Copy of registration in the commerce register or as a partner in a company.
• Financial documents:
  • Personal bank statements for the last three months or a copy of the passbook reflecting recent funds.
  • Income tax papers/salary slips (if employed).
  • Income tax statement (ITR) for the last three years or Form No. 16 (if self-employed).

Photo Specification for Italy Visit Visa

The photo specifications for an Italy visit visa are as follows:

• Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
• Colored photograph.
• The head must be in the central position.
• The photo should have been taken within the last three months.
• Background: Solid, plain white, or grey.
• The photo should cover 80% of the face.
• Maintain a neutral facial expression.
• Non-thick framed or prescription glasses are permitted.
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Facial hair is permitted.

Processing Time for Italy Visit Visa

The processing time for an Italy Schengen visit visa is typically around 10-15 working days. However, this duration may vary depending on factors such as the type of entry requested, the volume of applications, additional verification requirements, and more. To avoid delays, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

Italy Visit Visa Fees

The fees for the visit permit depend on the embassy’s decision and foreign exchange rates. In addition to the visa application fee, there are biometric charges and potential additional service charges. It is essential to verify the exact fee amount before beginning the application process.

After Submission

Once you have successfully submitted your application and paid the required fees, you will receive your visit visa within the processing time. If approved, you can collect your visa either directly from the embassy or consulate or from the Visa Application Centre. Alternatively, you may opt for the visa to be sent to you via mail.

How to Check Visa Status?

You can track the status of your visit visa application through the online portal of the Visa Application Centre. Enter your application number and date of birth to check your status. Alternatively, you can contact your travel agency for updates or choose to receive SMS notifications from the VAC.

When You Have This Visa

Once you have obtained the visit visa, keep the following points in mind to ensure a pleasant trip:

• Note the visa’s expiry date, allowed stay duration, and the number of entries indicated on the visa sticker. Do not overstay in Italy beyond this period.
• Carry all necessary documents while traveling, as you may be required to present copies at the entry port in Italy.
• Ensure that you travel to Italy within six months of the visa issue date; otherwise, your permit will become invalid.
• While in Italy, always have copies of your travel documents on hand.
• While on a visit permit, refrain from engaging in paid work in the country.
• Under normal circumstances, visit visas cannot be extended.
• If your visit visa has Limited Territorial Validity (LTV) specified, you can only visit countries mentioned on the visa sticker.