Italy

Italy Visa Guide For Indians

Anybody on the earth will be envious of Italy's pizza, spaghetti, lasagna, and other delicacies. You may savor this treat straight from its source thanks to the Italy Schengen Visa. Italians are involved in practically everything, including vehicles, food, fashion, art, and culture.

About Italy Visa

As one of the Schengen states, Italy requires a permit for entry into its territory for individuals from other states and some foreign nations. You can enter and remain in Italy for the length of time specified by the type of permit you have. For entry into Italy, Indian nationals need a valid visa. The kinds are primarily divided into two categories: temporary and permanent visas.  Single, double, or numerous entries are the formats in which they are offered.

Procedure to get visa for Italy 

There are various methods available for submitting an application for an Italy Schengen visa. Be sure you qualify for the specific type of Italy visa before applying using any of the ways.

You can choose to apply either directly at the embassy or consulate of Italy, as per the jurisdiction, or you may apply at one of the Italy government assigned Italy Schengen visa application centres (VAC).

VAC -

• Download the application form from the website of the VAC for your area.
• Fill in your details on the form, as well as affix any photographs and signatures.
• Make an appointment for the application and biometric submission at a VAC. You can do this online, or by simply calling them.
• Visit the respective VAC with your Italy Schengen visa documents, completed application as well as any fees to submit your application.

Embassy/Consulate -

• Visit the embassy/consulate website and fill in the online application form.
• Take a print out of the confirmation page.
• Make an appointment at the embassy/consulate as per your state of residence. You can do this online at the website.
• Visit the respective mission with the documents, and the print out for the biometric and application submission.
• Please note that the Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai does not accept visa applications, and have outsourced it to VACs. And, apply only to the mission that has jurisdiction over your state of residence (state you have been a resident of, in the past 6 months). Also, note that applications for the short term Schengen must be done at a VAC. The embassy no longer accepts applications for it directly. 

Italy Visa Types

The Italian entry permits can be classified in the following manner depending on the purpose and duration of the visit.

Schengen visa (C):  Also known as the short term Italy visa, this permit is valid for up to a duration of 90 days in a 180-day period. This permit is issued in the following types -
Italy Tourist Visa: The most common kind of permits, this is issued for the purpose of taking part in tourism-related activities. This can include sightseeing, leisure activities, visiting friends/family, etc.
Italy Visitor Visa:  Being a part of the tourist permit, this Italy visa allows you to visit your family or friends living in Italy.
Italy Business Visa: This type of permit is granted for people travelling to Italy to take part in business activities such as business meetings, conferences, signing contracts, and so on.
Italy Student Visa: This is issued for students who are visiting Italy to take part in short term studies, internships, or research that lasts less than 90 days.
Religious Visa: - If you are visiting Italy to take part in activities that involve religious work such as teaching or guiding in religion, ministering, etc. 
Sports Visa: - This type of permit is issued to sportspersons, judges, and other people relevant to the sports field at a professional or amateur level travelling to Italy to participate in the respective fields.
Transit Visa: Issued for people who will need a permit to stay in Italy as a part of their transit for a short duration.
Invitation Visa: This type is perfect for people who have been invited by an Italian organization or body for cultural, political, social, and other events or work.
Italy National Visa (D) - Also known as the long term type, this is valid for durations longer than 90 days. The main types of categories under this are -
Student Visa: For students taking part in studies or other academic activities that last longer than 90 days.
Religious Visa: For individuals performing religious work for a longer period of time.
Employment Visa: It is issued for individuals who are entering Italy to take part in work activities.
Family reunion Visa: This type is issued for people who are visiting the country to meet their spouse, family, etc for a period longer than 90 days.
Please note that in certain cases, you may be issued with a Schengen visa with ‘Limited Territorial Validity’. In these cases, you may be allowed to visit only the state(s) as mentioned on the permit.

Checklist for Italy Visa

A passport valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of travel
2 photographs
Travel itinerary
Confirmed round trip flight tickets
Proof of accommodation
Travel medical insurance covering 30000 Euros 
Proof of occupation
Financial documents to show sufficient funds

Italy Visa Photo Specification

Dimensions:  35mm X 45mm
Colour: Coloured
Head must occupy the central position
Must be captured within the last 3 months
Background: Solid, plain white or grey
80% face coverage
Neutral expression
Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription are permitted
Headgears are allowed only for religious reasons
Facial hair is permitted

Italy Visa processing time

The time taken to process the application depends on several factors such as the type of permit, the duration of it, the number of entries, the volume of applications at the mission, and several others. Under ideal circumstances, it takes about 10-15 working days for processing. However, due to the uncertainty in this, it is advised that you apply well in advance. You should apply at least 10 days before your travel and not more than 3 months.