The European Commission has revealed its plan to digitalize the Schengen visa. This will replace the mostly paper-based application system to obtain a visa for EU and Schengen countries currently in place. This means the Schengen visa will soon be available through a simplified online application process, similar to the European Travel Information and Authorization
Visa Policy for Italy
Italy’s visa policy determines who needs a visa to enter the country or if a foreign citizen is part of the list of visa-exempt countries.
The visa requirements for travelers to Italy depend on nationality, the purpose of the visit, and the period of intended stay.
Italy is one of the 26 countries that make up the Schengen passport-free zone in Europe. Travelers from other Schengen Area countries are permitted freedom of movement simply by presenting a valid National ID card.
A number of other visa-exempt countries can also currently gain visa-free access to Italy either by air, land or sea for a maximum stay of 90 days for tourism, business, medical treatment or transit purposes.
However, by the end of 2022, visa-free citizens from outside of the Schengen Area will be required to pre-register for an ETIAS authorization to visit Italy for short stays.
This online visa waiver will be available through a simple online application, and, once approved is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport.
All foreign citizens who wish to visit Italy for longer-term stays or other purposes are required to apply for an embassy visa from an Italian government diplomatic office.
Any foreign citizen who does not belong to the Schengen Area must have a valid passport to travel to Italy, whether they require a visa or not.
Below you will find a complete list of Italian visa regulations to travel to Italy from your country of residence.
