Italy Tourist Visa - Everything You Need To Know - (Indian Passport Holders)

Also known as the Italy Schengen tourist visa, this permit allows people from around the world to enter the country for tourism purposes such as sightseeing, leisure activities, adventure activities, etc. Being a part of the Schengen C category, this is a short term permit and is valid for a duration of 90 days in a 180-day period. Available in the form of single-entry, double-entry, as well as multiple-entry, this allows you to visit your friends or family in Italy as well. 

The application for the tourist permit can be either by filling an offline application form or by filling an online application form. However, the submission is made offline. You may submit the application at one of the Italian appointed visa application centres (VAC). 

At VAC -

1. Download the offline application form from the website of the VAC. 
2. Fill in the necessary details on the form.
3. Book an appointment for the application and biometric submission at a VAC. You can do this online, or by calling them on their number.
4. Visit the relevant VAC with your documents, completed application form, as well as any fees, to submit your application.

Note that in the case that you have already submitted your biometrics in the past 5 years, you do not have to submit them again. You can merely send the application in person, or through someone else, or send the application via post at one of the Drop-Box facilities provided by the VAC. 

Ensure that you submit the genuine documents and correct information. Any false information or fake documents can cause a visa rejection.  A refusal of your permit is considered to affect your future travel.

To be able to apply for the Schengen permit, you will have to meet the following conditions - 

• You must be in India while applying in the country. 
• You must apply to the mission that has jurisdiction over your state of residence.
• You will need to possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.
• Your sole purpose of the visit has to be tourism alone. You may also visit family/friends.
• You must possess sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country.
• You should possess travel insurance. 
• You must apply for the permit only if -

• 1. Italy is your only destination, or
  2. Italy is one of your multiple Schengen destinations -  in which case you will be spending the majority of the time in Italy, or, you are spending time in all the other destinations where Italy is your port of entry.

As per the Italy tourist visa requirements, the following are the list of documents required for Italy tourist visa from India - 

Mandatory Documents:

1. Valid Passport:
• Valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
• Issued within the last 10 years.
• At least two blank pages.
2. Completed and Signed Visa Application Form:
• Download from the Italian Embassy/Consulate website or VFS Global.
• Fill correctly and sign.
3. Recent Photos:
• 2-3 passport-sized, with a white background.
4. Flight Itinerary or Travel Plans:
• Confirmed return ticket or detailed itinerary.
5. Travel Health Insurance:
• Covering the entire Schengen Area (minimum €30,000 coverage).
6. Proof of Accommodation:
• Hotel booking or confirmation.
• Invitation letter with host’s ID and proof of residence (if staying with friends/family).
7. Proof of Financial Means:
• Bank statement (last 3-6 months), showing sufficient funds (approximately €45 per day in Italy).
• Income Tax Return (ITR) for the last two years.
8. Employment Letter (If Employed)/Student ID (If Student):
• To prove ties to India.
9. Additional Documents (If Requested):
• May vary on a case-by-case basis.

Supporting Documents (Recommended):

• Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
• Proof of Previous International Travel (If Any)

The photo specifications of Italy Schengen tourist visa are as follows -

• Dimensions:  35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured 
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be recently 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

The average Italy tourist visa processing time India is around 10-15 working days. However, this may increase or decrease based on several factors such as the volume of applications at the mission, the number of entries, additional document requirements, and so on. As a result of its uncertain nature, you are suggested to apply well in advance. 

Total Italy tourist visa fees from India is dependent on several aspects such as the biometric charges, type of entry, express delivery and courier charges, as well as any other additional service charges. As a result, it is necessary to find out the exact amount before applying. 

Please note that if you are applying directly at an Italian mission, you must pay the fees in the form of a demand draft. 

Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Italy for tourism purposes. Since Italy is part of the Schengen Area, Indians will need to apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa.

You can track the status of your application by visiting the online portal of the VAC and entering the application number and name. You can also contact your travel agency you have applied it for you. Alternately, you can opt for SMS notifications of the status. 

10.1 Gather All Documents

Why is this step crucial?

Having all documents ready ensures a smooth application process, reducing the likelihood of delays or rejection due to incomplete submissions.

Checklist:

1. Required Documents (as mentioned earlier):
   
   
• Valid Passport
• Completed and Signed Visa Application Form
• Recent Photos
• Flight Itinerary or Travel Plans
• Travel Health Insurance
• Proof of Accommodation
• Proof of Financial Means
• Employment Letter (If Employed)/Student ID (If Student)
  
  
2. Recommended Documents (for a stronger application):
• Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
• Proof of Previous International Travel (If Any)
  
  
3. Additional Documents (If Applicable):
• For minors, elderly, or individuals with special requirements, additional documentation may be needed. Check with the Italian Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global for specific requirements.

Tips for Gathering Documents:

• Start Early: Allow time to procure documents that may take longer to obtain.
• Verify Document Validity: Ensure all documents are up-to-date and will remain valid throughout your intended stay in Italy.
• Make Copies: Keep a set of photocopies for your records and, if required, for submission.

10.2  Fill the Application Form

Obtaining the Form:

• Download from Official Websites:
• Italian Embassy in New Delhi: https://ambnewdelhi.esteri.it/
• Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai
• VFS Global for Italy in India: https://www.vfsglobal.com/italy/india/
• Collect from VFS Global Centers or the Italian Embassy/Consulate: If preferred, though downloading is recommended for the latest version.

Filling Out the Form:

1. Choose the Correct Form: Ensure you're filling out the Schengen Visa application form for tourism purposes.
2. Fill Accurately and Completely:
• Use a computer to fill the form, if possible, for clarity.
• Answer all questions; if a section doesn’t apply, mark it as “Not Applicable” or similar.
3. Sign the Form:
• Once completed, sign the form in the designated area.
• For minors, the form should be signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Tips for Filling the Application Form:

• Use the Latest Form Version: To ensure you have the most current requirements.
• Be Thorough: Double-check your entries for accuracy and completeness.

10.3 Book an Appointment

Through VFS Global:

1. Visit the VFS Global Website for Italy:
• https://www.vfsglobal.com/italy/india/
2. Click on “Book an Appointment”:
• Follow the prompts to select your location, date, and time.
3. Fill in the Required Information:
• Enter your details as they appear on your passport.
4. Confirm Your Appointment:
• You will receive a confirmation email with the appointment details.

Directly at the Italian Embassy/Consulate (If Eligible):

1. Check Eligibility:
• Typically, only for diplomatic or official passport holders, or in exceptional cases.
2. Contact the Embassy/Consulate:
• Reach out via phone or email to inquire about the appointment process.
3. Follow Provided Instructions:
• For booking an appointment, if direct submission is indeed an option for your case.

Tips for Booking an Appointment:

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak travel seasons.
• Be Flexible with Dates: If possible, to secure an earlier appointment.

10.4 Submit Your Application

At the Appointment:

1. Arrive Early:
• Plan to reach the submission center at least 15 minutes before your appointment.
2. Bring All Documents:
• Originals and photocopies, as instructed.
3. Submit Your Application:
• Hand over your documents to the officer.
• Ensure all documents are in order, as per the checklist provided.
4. Pay the Required Fees:
• Visa application fee and service fee (if applying through VFS Global).
• Payment methods are usually specified by the submission center.

Tips for Submission:

• Review Before Submitting: Quickly check your documents one last time.
• Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about any part of the process.

10.5 Biometric Data Collection

Applicability:

• First-Time Schengen Visa Applicants in the Last 5 Years:
• If you haven’t applied for a Schengen Visa in the past 5 years, you’ll need to provide biometric data.
• Exemptions:
• Children under 12 years old.
• Persons for whom the collection of fingerprints is physically impossible.
• Heads of State or government and members of a national government with accompanying spouses, and the members of their official delegation when they are invited by Member States’ governments or by international organisations for an official purpose.

The Process:

1. Fingerprint Scanning:
• A quick and painless process where your fingerprints are scanned digitally.
2. Facial Image Capture:
• A digital photograph will be taken.

Tips for Biometric Data Collection:

• Ensure Clean and Dry Fingers: For clear fingerprint scans.
• Follow Instructions: For the photograph and fingerprint scanning process.

• Typical Processing Time: 15 calendar days.
• Extended Processing Time: Up to 30 or 60 days in exceptional cases.
• Track Your Application: Through the VFS Global website or by contacting the Italian Embassy/Consulate directly.

• Successful Application: Collect your passport with the visa from the submission center or as instructed.
• Unsuccessful Application: Collect your passport and review the rejection reasons for a potential re-application.

• Apply Early: To account for any unexpected delays.
• Double-Check Documents: Ensure all meet the requirements.
• Be Prepared for the Interview: Though not always required, be ready to explain your travel plans.

• Insufficient or Inaccurate Documentation

• Inadequate Proof of Financial Means

• Unclear Travel Plans

• Previous Visa Rejections or Deportations

• Review Rejection Reasons: Understand why your application was rejected.

• Gather Additional Documentation: Addressing the reasons for rejection.

• Submit an Appeal: Through the Italian Embassy/Consulate, following their appeal process guidelines.

• Italian Embassy in New Delhi:
• Website: https://ambnewdelhi.esteri.it/
• Contact: As listed on the official website.
• Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai:
• Website: https://conmumbai.esteri.it/
• Contact: As listed on the official website.
• VFS Global for Italy in India:
• Website: https://www.vfsglobal.com/italy/india/
• Contact: As listed on the official website.

Need more clarity on Italy visa? check out helpful resources below

• Italy Visa Requirements 
• Italy Business Visa Requirements
• Italy Study Visa Requirements
• Italy Visit Visa Requirements
• Visa Rejection Reasons
•  How does visa rejection affect your future travels?