Visa Information
VISA TYPES
Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing times.
Visa Types
Please note that the following categories of applicants should apply for visas exclusively at the visa section of the Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa, making an appointment by emailing [email protected], and NOT through the VFS agency:
- spouses, stable partners, parents (mother/father) and children of Italian citizens accompanying/accompanying the Italian/EU citizen for periods of less than three months;
- spouses, stable partners, parents (mother/father) and children of Italian citizens who intend to reunite with the family member permanently residing in Italy;
- representatives of the government of Ethiopia, Djibouti and South Sudan on an official mission, with supporting Note Verbale from the relevant Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
- representatives of embassies, African Union, United Nations and International Organizations holding diplomatic or service passports, traveling on official missions with a supporting Note Verbale from their respective organization;
- people requiring visas for medical treatment;
- applicants holding an expired or stolen Italian residence permit (permesso di soggiorno);
- people requiring visas for family reunification.
Business
-
Overview
This visa is issued to applicants to allow them to enter Italy for a short term period of stay, for not more than 90 days and is issued to foreigners who have an economical commercial purpose
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Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 15954.00 Child between 6 -12 yrs 7977.00 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees to be paid in Cash / POS/ Telebirr at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) AMOUNT IN EURO (INCLUDING VAT) Visa application processing Fee 2530.00 14.25 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
You must pay the VFS service fee online with a credit or debit card to confirm your appointment.
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Visa Fees are payable only by Cash / POS/ Telebirr in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
ALL PASSPORTS MUST BE IN GOOD CONDITIONS. ALTERATED, DAMAGED AND/OR COUNTERFEITED PASSPORTS WITH MISSING PAGES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
PASSPORT MUST HAVE:
- AT LEAST TWO BLANK PAGES
- A VALIDITY PERIOD THAT EXCEEDS OF AT LEAST THREE (3) MONTHS THE DATE OF DEPARTURE FROM THE SCHENGEN AREA
-
Photo Specifications
For Photo Specifications click here
-
Processing Time
APPLICATION OF THE PROVISION OF ARTICLE 25 A OF THE SCHENGEN VISA CODE FOR ETHIOPIAN CITIZENS
Please note that the following new rules will be applied as of the 1st of June 2024 for Ethiopian citizens requesting a short-term Schengen visa:
A Schengen visa application is only complete once all documents required for the purpose of your stay have been submitted;
The standard processing time will be 45 days; kindly submit the visa application accordingly;
Multiple-entry visas cannot be issued.
Diplomat and service passport holders are no longer exempted from the payment of the visa fee.
For Non-Ethiopian Passport Holder-
You need to submit your application in good time before travelling. According to article 9 section 1 in the visa code, EU 2019/1155, you should apply not less than 15 days before the planned visit begins. The 15 days is counted from when the application is received by the Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. Consequently, you must calculate with the transportation time when planning for your submission.
A late application might be refused or in some cases a request for a new flight booking, insurance and even new invitation will be required. A request for new documents is likely to increase the handling time further.
The Embassy should handle your application within 15 days (if the application is admissible), counted from when the Embassy has received the application. If an application is not complete or if an interview or document verification is needed the handling time can be extended up to 45 days.
WARNING
The only fee that the applicant should pay when apply for a visa is the application fee and the VFS service fee. Please note that the Embassy of Italy ONLY cooperates with the outsourcing VFS Global. The Embassy of Italy does NOT cooperate with other agents, third parties or individuals who offers visa facilitation services for payment.
If the applicant has been asked to pay extra costs which are not included in the authorized fees by VFS staff, Embassy staff or external agencies/individuals, please notify immediately to: [email protected]
-
Application Form

Schengen Visa Application form in English 
Schengen Visa Application form in Italian APPLICATION FORM
APPLICATION FORMS FOR SCHENGEN VISA C SHALL BE FILLED IN EACH PART, KINDLY INCLUDING A VALID MOBILE PHONE NUMBER AND E-MAIL ADDRESS.
APPLICATION FORMS SHALL ALWAYS BE DULY SIGNED AND DATED IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AND PROCESSED.
Working Visa
-
Overview
The Visa allows applicants to enter Italy for a short term period (type "C") or for a long term period (type "D") with the purpose to work while earning a salary.
This Visas are subject to an Authorisation ("NULLA OSTA") issued by the competent Italian Authority ("SPORTELLO UNICO PER L'IMMIGRAZIONE") which is valid within 6 months from the date of issuing.
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Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 4316 Child between 6 -12 yrs 2158 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees and VFS Service Fees to be paid in Cash / POS/ Telebirr at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) VFS Service Charge 770 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees and VFS Service Charge Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Fees are payable only by cash in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
-
Photo Specifications
Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 35mm
Please provide your recent photograph (not more than 6 months old). The photographs should be in colour: -
- Taken against a clear white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background;
- Clear and of good quality(as per the ticked sample but with white background);
- Printed on normal photographic paper;
- Unmounted - 45 mm x 35 mm in size;
- Full face (without sunglasses and normally without a hat or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
-
Processing Time
The processing time for Schengen visas depends on each individual case. However, applicants should always apply minimum 4 weeks before the intended journey.
If the case is considered uncomplicated, the processing time is 10 calendar days counting from the day the Embassy receives all the required documents (excluding the day of submission and return to VFS).
Research
-
Overview
This is for applicants going on Research programs.
-
Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 4316 Child between 6 -12 yrs 2158 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees and VFS Service Fees to be paid in cash at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) VFS Service Charge 770 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees and VFS Service Charge Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Fees are payable only by cash in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
-
Photo Specifications
Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 35mm
Please provide your recent photograph (not more than 6 months old). The photographs should be in colour: -
- Taken against a clear white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background;
- Clear and of good quality(as per the ticked sample but with white background);
- Printed on normal photographic paper;
- Unmounted - 45 mm x 35 mm in size;
- Full face (without sunglasses and normally without a hat or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
-
Processing Time
The processing time for Schengen visas depends on each individual case. However, applicants should always apply minimum 4 weeks before the intended journey.
If the case is considered uncomplicated, the processing time is 10 calendar days counting from the day the Embassy receives all the required documents (excluding the day of submission and return to VFS).
Medical Treatment
-
Overview
The visa is issued to patients who need to undergo specific medical treatments in Italy. It's a short term period visa (type "C"): maximum stay 90 days or can also be a long term period visa (type “D”) for stays beyond 90 days.
-
Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 4316 Child between 6 -12 yrs 2158 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees and VFS Service Fees to be paid in cash at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) VFS Service Charge 770 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees and VFS Service Charge Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Fees are payable only by cash in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
-
Photo Specifications
Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 5cm x 5cm
Please provide your recent photograph (not more than 6 months old). The photographs should be in colour: -
- Taken against a clear white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background;
- Clear and of good quality(as per the ticked sample but with white background);
- Printed on normal photographic paper;
- Unmounted - 5cm x 5cm in size;
- Full face (without sunglasses and normally without a hat or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
-
Processing Time
The processing time for Schengen visas depends on each individual case. However, applicants should always apply minimum 4 weeks before the intended journey.
If the case is considered uncomplicated, the processing time is 10 calendar days counting from the day the Embassy receives all the required documents (excluding the day of submission and return to VFS).
Official Visa
-
Overview
This visa is issued to those going to Italy send for Official purposes.
-
Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 4316 Child between 6 -12 yrs 2158 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees and VFS Service Fees to be paid in cash at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) VFS Service Charge 770 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees and VFS Service Charge Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Fees are payable only by cash in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
-
Photo Specifications
Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 5cm x 5cm
Please provide your recent photograph (not more than 6 months old). The photographs should be in colour: -
- Taken against a clear white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background;
- Clear and of good quality(as per the ticked sample but with white background);
- Printed on normal photographic paper;
- Unmounted - 5cm x 5cm mm in size;
- Full face (without sunglasses and normally without a hat or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
-
Processing Time
The processing time for Schengen visas depends on each individual case. However, applicants should always apply minimum 4 weeks before the intended journey.
If the case is considered uncomplicated, the processing time is 10 calendar days counting from the day the Embassy receives all the required documents (excluding the day of submission and return to VFS).
Religious
-
Overview
- This visa is issued to those going to Italy send for Religious purposes. It is a short term period visa (type "C") for stays up to 90 days or can also be a long term period visa (type “D” )for stays beyond 90 days.
-
Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 4316 Child between 6 -12 yrs 2158 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees and VFS Service Fees to be paid in cash at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) Visa application processing Fee 770 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees and VFS Service Charge Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
Please enquire from the Embassy of Italy Call Centre or the Counter staff for further information on how to make payment
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Fees are payable only by cash in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
-
Photo Specifications
Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 5cm x 5cm
Please provide your recent photograph (not more than 6 months old). The photographs should be in colour: -
- Taken against a clear white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background;
- Clear and of good quality(as per the ticked sample but with white background);
- Printed on normal photographic paper;
- Unmounted - 5cm x 5cm in size;
- Full face (without sunglasses and normally without a hat or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
-
Processing Time
The processing time for Schengen visas depends on each individual case. However, applicants should always apply minimum 4 weeks before the intended journey.
If the case is considered uncomplicated, the processing time is 10 calendar days counting from the day the Embassy receives all the required documents (excluding the day of submission and return to VFS).
Study
-
Overview
This visa allows an applicant to enter Italy to study in Italian universities or other eligible institutions/schools or for professional trainings for a short term period (type “C”) or for a long term (type “D”) period of stay.
-
Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 4316 Child between 6 -12 yrs 2158 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees and VFS Service Fees to be paid in cash at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) VFS Service Charge 770 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees and VFS Service Charge Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Fees are payable only by cash in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
-
Photo Specifications
Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 5cm x 5cm
Please provide your recent photograph (not more than 6 months old). The photographs should be in colour: -
- Taken against a clear white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background;
- Clear and of good quality(as per the ticked sample but with white background);
- Printed on normal photographic paper;
- Unmounted - 5cm x 5cm mm in size;
- Full face (without sunglasses and normally without a hat or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
-
Processing Time
The processing time for Schengen visas depends on each individual case. However, applicants should always apply minimum 4 weeks before the intended journey.
If the case is considered uncomplicated, the processing time is 10 calendar days counting from the day the Embassy receives all the required documents (excluding the day of submission and return to VFS).
Sports Competition
-
Overview
The visa is issued to sports people (athletes and trainers) invited to participate in competitions (both professionals and amateurs) only for a short term period of time, maximum 90 days.The issuance of this visa must be requested by the competent Italian Federation and duly authorized by the Italian National Olympic Committee (C.O.N.I.). This written authorization must be sent directly by C.O.N.I. to the Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa.
-
Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 4316 Child between 6 -12 yrs 2158 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees and VFS Service Fees to be paid in cash at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) VFS Service Charge 770 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees and VFS Service Charge Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Fees are payable only by cash in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Click here to download the list of documents required
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
-
Photo Specifications
Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 5cm x 5cm
Please provide your recent photograph (not more than 6 months old). The photographs should be in colour: -
- Taken against a clear white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background;
- Clear and of good quality(as per the ticked sample but with white background);
- Printed on normal photographic paper;
- Unmounted - 5cm x 5cm in size;
- Full face (without sunglasses and normally without a hat or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
-
Processing Time
The processing time for Schengen visas depends on each individual case. However, applicants should always apply minimum 4 weeks before the intended journey.
If the case is considered uncomplicated, the processing time is 10 calendar days counting from the day the Embassy receives all the required documents (excluding the day of submission and return to VFS).
Tourist
-
Overview
The visa is issued to people who wish to visit Italy for tourist purposes. It is a short term (type "C") visa - Maximum stay: 90 days.
-
Visa Fees
The Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa:
VISA CATEGORY VISA FEES IN ETB (Schengen-type C) Adults 15954.00 Child between 6 -12 yrs 7977.00 Child below 6 Years Free Visa Fees to be paid in Cash / POS/ Telebirr at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre before submitting your visa application.
VFS SERVICE FEE AMOUNT IN ETB (INCLUDING VAT) AMOUNT IN EURO (INCLUDING VAT) Visa application processing Fee 2530.00 14.25 How to pay the Visa fees:
Applicants will be required to Pay their fees (a deposit of the Embassy Visa Fees) and upon confirmation of the amount payable by the VFS Counter Staff and after completion of document checks, at the Cashier counter at the Visa Application Centre
You must pay the VFS service fee online with a credit or debit card to confirm your appointment.
Please Note:
- The applicable visa fee is as per the current exchange rate and it is subject to change. All the fees are non-refundable and non - transferable.
- The Visa Fees are payable only by Cash / POS/ Telebirr in Ethiopian Birr at the Cashier Counter in the Visa Application Centre
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Click here to download the list of documents required
PROOF OF SPONSORSHIP ANDOR PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
Kindly note:
- Personal appearance of applicant is required.
- All documents must be submitted in original as well as in a clear photocopy at the time of making an application.
ALL PASSPORTS MUST BE IN GOOD CONDITIONS. ALTERATED, DAMAGED AND/OR COUNTERFEITED PASSPORTS WITH MISSING PAGES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
PASSPORT MUST HAVE:
- AT LEAST TWO BLANK PAGES
- A VALIDITY PERIOD THAT EXCEEDS OF AT LEAST THREE (3) MONTHS THE DATE OF DEPARTURE FROM THE SCHENGEN AREA
-
Photo Specifications
For Photo Specifications click here
-
Processing Time
APPLICATION OF THE PROVISION OF ARTICLE 25 A OF THE SCHENGEN VISA CODE FOR ETHIOPIAN CITIZENS
Please note that the following new rules will be applied as of the 1st of June 2024 for Ethiopian citizens requesting a short-term Schengen visa:
A Schengen visa application is only complete once all documents required for the purpose of your stay have been submitted;
The standard processing time will be 45 days; kindly submit the visa application accordingly;
Multiple-entry visas cannot be issued.
Diplomat and service passport holders are no longer exempted from the payment of the visa fee.
For Non- Ethiopian Passport Holders-
You need to submit your application in good time before travelling. According to article 9 section 1 in the visa code, EU 2019/1155, you should apply not less than 15 days before the planned visit begins. The 15 days is counted from when the application is received by the Embassy of Italy in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. Consequently, you must calculate with the transportation time when planning for your submission.
A late application might be refused or in some cases a request for a new flight booking, insurance and even new invitation will be required. A request for new documents is likely to increase the handling time further.
The Embassy should handle your application within 15 days (if the application is admissible), counted from when the Embassy has received the application. If an application is not complete or if an interview or document verification is needed the handling time can be extended up to 45 days.
WARNING
The only fee that the applicant should pay when apply for a visa is the application fee and the VFS service fee. Please note that the Embassy of Italy ONLY cooperates with the outsourcing VFS Global. The Embassy of Italy does NOT cooperate with other agents, third parties or individuals who offers visa facilitation services for payment.
If the applicant has been asked to pay extra costs which are not included in the authorized fees by VFS staff, Embassy staff or external agencies/individuals, please notify immediately to: [email protected]
-
Application Form

Schengen Visa Application form in English 
Schengen Visa Application form in Italian APPLICATION FORM
APPLICATION FORMS FOR SCHENGEN VISA C SHALL BE FILLED IN EACH PART, KINDLY INCLUDING A VALID MOBILE PHONE NUMBER AND E-MAIL ADDRESS.
APPLICATION FORMS SHALL ALWAYS BE DULY SIGNED AND DATED IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AND PROCESSED.


