Italy

Here’s an updated summary of the Italy visa rules as of 2025 — including what's new, what stays the same, and what to watch out for. If you tell me your nationality / purpose (tourism, study, work, etc.), I can give more specific info.

Key Changes & What’s New in 2025

1. Biometric Fingerprinting for Long-Term Visas (Type D) from Jan 11, 2025
   
   

   • Applicants for long-term visas (e.g. study, employment, family reunification, etc.) must appear in person at the Italian embassy/consulate to provide fingerprints. SchengenNews+2Outlook Traveller+2
     
     

   • This matches what was already required for short-term Schengen visas (type C), but extends it to long-term/“national” visas. SchengenVisaInfo+1
     
     

   • The biometric data (fingerprints) will be stored for up to 59 months. Consgedda+2ID Tech+2
     
     

2. Visa Fees Updated
   
   

   • As of 11 June 2024, the Schengen visa fee rose from €80 to €90 for adults. For children aged 6–12, the fee is now €45. consgerusalemme.esteri.it
     
     

   • Visa remains free for children under 6. consgerusalemme.esteri.it
     
     

3. Processing Times
   
   

   • For Schengen (Type C) short-stay visas: usual processing time is 15 days, though in some cases this may be extended to 45 days. Consgedda
     
     

   • For National (Type D) visas: generally longer. Some visas (for family reasons, subordinate work) can be processed in about 30 days, while for self-employment it may be up to 120 days. Consgedda
     
     

4. ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) & Visa-Free Travelers
   
   

   • Travelers from visa-exempt countries (US, UK, Canada, etc.) will (or will need to) obtain ETIAS authorization before travelling to Italy/Schengen for short stays. https://www.visititaly.eu
     
     

   • The 90-days within any 180 day rule for short stays remains. You can use Schengen visa or visa-free entry (if applicable) for up to 90 days across Schengen. https://www.visititaly.eu
     
     

General Visa Types for Italy

Here are the main visa categories and what they are used for:

Visa Type

Duration / Purpose

Key Requirements / Notes

Type C (Schengen, short stay)

Up to 90 days in a 180-day period

For tourism, business, short visits. Need proof of purpose of visit, travel insurance, funds, sometimes accommodation/tickets. Biometric data already required. SchengenNews+1

Type D (National visa, long stay)

More than 90 days

For study, work, family reunification, etc. Higher documentation requirements. New as of 2025: fingerprinting in person mandatory. SchengenNews+2Consgedda+2

Requirements & What to Prepare

These are general things you’ll need, especially for long-stay or more formal visa categories:

• Valid passport (with enough validity and blank pages).
  
  

• Biometric photos.
  
  

• Proof of purpose (acceptance letter for students, work contract, etc.).
  
  

• Proof of suitable accommodation.
  
  

• Proof of sufficient funds.
  
  

• Travel insurance (for Schengen visa).
  
  

• Payment of visa fees.
  
  

• Fingerprinting (for Type C & D) from Jan 2025 for relevant applicants. SchengenNews+1
  
  

Things to Watch Out For / Tips

• Planning ahead: Because of the new fingerprinting requirement and possible delays, it’s wise to apply well in advance. For example, if you need a Type D visa for study or work, start early.
  
  

• Consulate appointment wait times may be longer, especially with new in-person requirements.
  
  

• Residence permits: If moving to Italy long-term (for example as a student or employee), you’ll also need to obtain or renew a permesso di soggiorno once you arrive.
  
  

• Changes to ETIAS timing: The implementation dates or roll-out may shift. Keep up with official announcements.
  
  

If you tell us your country of citizenship and purpose of travel (tourist, study, work, family, etc.), we can check the exact visa requirements for you. Contact us now if you want us to do that for you?