Italy Tourist Visa - Definitive Guide

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 - 

• A valid passport
• Passport size photographs
• Covering letter stating the details of the visit, as well as the tourist
• Detailed travel itinerary 
• Confirmed round trip flight tickets 
• Proof of accommodation/invitation letter
• Travel medical insurance covering 30000 Euros  
• Proof of occupation
• Financial documents to show sufficient funds

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. 

Once you have submitted the application and paid the fees, you will now have to wait to get your visa. As per your choice, you can either pick the documents and visa from the mission or VAC, or you may opt for it to be delivered to you via mail. 

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. 

Once you obtain this permit, you must keep in mind the following points to ensure a pleasant stay. 

• Make a note of the visa expiry date, as well as the number of entries. You must not stay in the country beyond this period.
• You should travel to the country within 6 months of your visa issuance. 
• Always carry a copy of your passport and other travel documents while you are in the country.
• While you are in a tourist category, you cannot take part in work activities.
• You cannot extend the permit unless in extreme unforeseeable circumstances.
• You must obey the Italian laws and respect the culture.