Visa Information

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person.

Please verify which category of visa you are applying and print one of the checklists accordingly:

• Students enrolling in full Italian University program;
• Exchange and Mobility programs;
• Students independently attending a course on Italian Language/Culture;
• Internship program;
• Professional training.

Students enrolling in full Italian University Programs

You need to contact the school office of the Italian Consulate ([email protected]) to accomplish with all the requirements regulated by the M.I.U.R. (Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research) to enrol in a full Italian University program. Appointments for a visa can be requested only upon confirmation of the admission to the entrance exam at an Italian University.
Applicants should always appear in person. All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants must provide:

1. Duly completed application form click here;

2. Valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages, valid at least 3 months (original plus one photocopy). The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;

5. Cover letter;

6. Duly completed and signed “Form A” downloaded from the following website: https://www.studiare-in-italia.it/studentistranieri/; or here.

7. Declaration of value (if applicable), issued by the School Office of the Italian Consulate/Embassy having jurisdiction over the University/ School that issued the certificate;

8. One way travel tickets reservation. Please note:

   
   

   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;

   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;

   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory;

   4. if using third parties services, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if based in the UK or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be taken into account. This applies to letter a), b), c);

9. Proof of accommodation: rental agreement or at least 15/30 days of hotel reservation. In case the applicant is staying with friends/family, a letter of invitation is required [for a template click here] along with the host's ID (valid permit of stay for non-European Union citizens) where the signature of the holder appears;

10. Travel insurance, which must be issued in UK or in one of the Schengen countries, including every Schengen country and covering at the least the first 2 weeks of period of staying in Italy. Health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for emergency hospital and repatriation expenses. If your current insurance company does not provide such coverage, you are requested to find an international insurance. A special insurance policy for student with INA ASSITALIA is available through Universities upon arrival in Italy. If the insurance cover is not specified in the acceptance letter from the Italian university, a declaration in a form of “affidavit” (self-declaration) is required;

11. Proof of financial means of support in Italy of no less than 500 euros per month. The availability can be proven through: personal last 3 months’ UK bank statements OR parents last 3 months’ bank statement alongside with original and 1 copy of birth certificate. Please, note:

    
    

    1. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country;

    2. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note.

       
       For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

Exchange and mobility programs

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form; For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form

2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short Stay visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;

5. Original recent letter (not older than 1 month) of acceptance from University in Italy, specifying the type of course, number of weekly hours and dates;

6. Original recent letter (not older than 1 month) from University in UK confirming enrolment and applicant’s mobility program;

7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation. Please note:

   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;

   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving license If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;

   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory.

   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

8. Proof of accommodation: hotel reservation that covers the entire period of staying. In case the applicant is staying with friends/family, a letter of invitation is required [for a template please see here] along with the host's ID (valid permit of stay for non-European Union citizens) where the signature of the holder appears;

9. Travel insurance, which must be issued in UK or in one of the Schengen countries, including every Schengen country covering the entire period of staying in Italy. Health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for emergency hospital and repatriation expenses. If your current insurance company does not provide such coverage, you are requested to find an international insurance. A special insurance policy for student with INA ASSITALIA is available through Universities upon arrival in Italy. If the insurance cover is not specified in the acceptance letter from the Italian university, a declaration in a form of “affidavit” (self-declaration) is required;

10. Proof of financial means of support in Italy as per Ministry of Interior Directive 1.3.2000. The availability can be proven through: personal last 3 months UK bank statements OR parents last 3 months’ bank statement alongside with original and 1 copy of birth certificate and parents passport.

    
    

    Please, note:

    1. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalized by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country.
    2. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note.

    For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

Students independently attending a course on Italian Language/Culture

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form; For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form

2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short Stay visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;

5. Original recent letter (not older than 1 month) of acceptance from University in Italy, specifying the type of course, number of weekly hours and dates;

6. Transcript of previous studies in the applicant’s home country;

7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation. Please note:

   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;

   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;

   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory.

   4. if using third parties services, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if based in the UK or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be taken into account. This applies to letter a), b), c);

8. Proof of accommodation: hotel reservation that covers the entire period of staying. In case the applicant is staying with friends/family, a letter of invitation is required [for a template please see here] along with the host's ID (valid permit of stay for non-European Union citizens) where the signature of the holder appears;

9. Travel insurance, which must be issued in UK or in one of the Schengen countries, including every Schengen country covering the entire period of staying in Italy. Health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for emergency hospital and repatriation expenses. If your current insurance company does not provide such coverage, you are requested to find an international insurance. A special insurance policy for student with INA ASSITALIA is available through Universities upon arrival in Italy. If the insurance cover is not specified in the acceptance letter from the Italian university, a declaration in a form of “affidavit” (self-declaration) is required;

10. Proof of financial means of support in Italy as per Ministry of Interior Directive 1.3.2000. The availability can be proven through: personal last 3 months UK bank statements OR parents last 3 months’ bank statement alongside with original and 1 copy of birth certificate and parents passport.

    
    

    Please, note:

    1. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country.
    2. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note.

    For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

Internship program

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form; For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form

2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short Stay visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip in Italy for Schengen/Short Stay visa. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus photocopy) for National/Long term visa;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;

5. Documentation concerning the internship program: Internship programs are organized by authorized entities (as per Art. 2 paragraph 1 of Decree of Ministry of Labor and Welfare N. 142 dated 03.25.1998) and are implemented according to a specific agreement between the promoting institution and the hosting employer. The visa can be requested by presenting a formal internship project (as per Art. 18 of Law N. 196/97 and Art. 4 of the D.M. N. 142/98) duly stamped by the competent Italian Region;

6. Transcript of previous studies in the applicant’s home country;

7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation. Please note:

   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;

   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;

   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory.

   4. if using third parties services, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if based in the UK or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be taken into account. This applies to letter a), b), c);

8. Proof of accommodation: hotel reservation that covers the entire period of staying. In case the applicant is staying with friends/family, a letter of invitation is required [for a template please see here] along with the host's ID (valid permit of stay for non-European Union citizens) where the signature of the holder appears;

9. Travel insurance, which must be issued in UK or in one of the Schengen countries, including every Schengen country covering the entire period of staying in Italy. Health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for emergency hospital and repatriation expenses. If your current insurance company does not provide such coverage, you are requested to find an international insurance. A special insurance policy for student with INA ASSITALIA is available through Universities upon arrival in Italy. If the insurance cover is not specified in the acceptance letter from the Italian university, a declaration in a form of “affidavit” (self-declaration) is required;

10. Proof of financial means of support in Italy as per Ministry of Interior Directive 1.3.2000. The availability can be proven through: personal last 3 months UK bank statements OR parents last 3 months’ bank statement alongside with original and 1 copy of birth certificate and parents passport.

    
    

    Please, note:

    1. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country.
    2. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note.

    For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

Professional training

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form; For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form

2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short Stay visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;

5. Enrolment letter to a professional training course, mentioning its duration, subject of the training program, credentials etc.). The course must be coherent with previous education organized by training entities authorized to perform professional training programs (as per Art. 142 paragraph 1, letter d, DL 112/1998 and Decree of the Ministry of Labour N. 166 dated 05.25.2001). The course cannot exceed the duration of 24 months and must aim to obtain a professional qualification or recognition of achieved skills. The training entity must declare in the enrolment letter that it has been accredited according to the above mentioned laws to carry out professional training courses;

6. Transcript of previous studies in the applicant’s home country;

7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation. Please note:

   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;

   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;

   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory.

   4. if using third parties services, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if based in the UK or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be taken into account. This applies to letter a), b), c);

8. Proof of accommodation: hotel reservation that covers the entire period of staying. In case the applicant is staying with friends/family, a letter of invitation is required [for a template please see here] along with the host's ID (valid permit of stay for non-European Union citizens) where the signature of the holder appears;

9. Travel insurance, which must be issued in UK or in one of the Schengen countries, including every Schengen country covering the entire period of staying in Italy. Health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for emergency hospital and repatriation expenses. If your current insurance company does not provide such coverage, you are requested to find an international insurance. A special insurance policy for student with INA ASSITALIA is available through Universities upon arrival in Italy. If the insurance cover is not specified in the acceptance letter from the Italian university, a declaration in a form of “affidavit” (self-declaration) is required;

10. Proof of financial means of support in Italy as per Ministry of Interior Directive 1.3.2000. The availability can be proven through: personal last 3 months UK bank statements OR parents last 3 months’ bank statement alongside with original and 1 copy of birth certificate and parents passport.

    
    

    Please, note:

    1. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country.
    2. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note.

    For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

Short Stay visas

In accordance with the provisions of the EU Regulation 2019/592, starting from 1 January 2021 (the end of the transition period) the United Kingdom will be added to Annex II of the EU regulation 2018/1806.

British citizens will therefore not need a Schengen short-stay visa to spend up to 90 days in Italy within a period of 180 days.

This exemption also applies to the following categories of British citizens:

• ”British Nationals Overseas”;
• “British Overseas Territories Citizens”(BOTC) - including Anguilla, Bermuda, Gibraltar, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, South Sandwich Islands, Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, Turks and Caicos Islands, British Virgin Islands, British Antarctic Territory and British Indian Ocean Territory;
• British Overseas Citizens (BOC);
• British Protected Persons (BPP);
• British Subjects (BS).

The exemption from the requirement for a short-stay visa will also apply in cases where British citizens enter Italy to perform paid work, subject to reciprocal arrangements for Italian citizens in the U.K. In the case of British citizens entering Italy to undertake paid work, there is a separate requirement to apply for a residence permit within eight working days of entering Italy.

Other Schengen visa exemption under ex art. 6 Reg 2018/1806 will be applied to the following traveller’s categories:

• Third country nationals subject to visa requirement, residing in the UK, travelling as part of a school trip as members of a group of school pupils accompanied by a teacher from the school in question;
• Recognized refugees and stateless persons, resident in the UK in possession of a travel document issued by the British authorities.

Long Stay visas

Starting from 1 January 2021, British citizens planning to stay in Italy for more than 90 days (‘long stay’) within 180 days, will be subject to National visas requirements according to the Italian immigration rules applied to third country nationals.
Starting now, British citizens may submit a Long Stay visa application for entry on 1 January 2021 or later, if applying for the following purposes:

• Study
• Religious purposes
• Mission
• Elective residency

The submission of applications for National visas subject to the "Nulla Osta" (entry clearance) from the "Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione" (Unified Immigration Desk) will be possible exclusively after the 1st January 2021.

The above mentioned procedure applies for Long stay visas for the following purposes: - work (including sport related activities and research) - family reunion and adoption - investors and start-up - conversion of residence permits originally issued for study or traineeship purposes.
To get more information, please visit the website of the Italian Minister of Interior.
https://www.interno.gov.it/it/temi/immigrazione-e-asilo/modalita-dingresso/sportello-unico-limmigrazione

British and EU Family Member resident in the UK

As of 1 January 2021, EU free movement law no longer applies apply to and in the UK, including for EU citizens and their family members residing in the UK.

Third Country National family members of UK nationals will have to fulfil all the rules of the Visa Code applicable to third-country nationals.

If they are not holding a visa and they intend to apply in order to travel as of 1 January 2021, they must apply for a short stay visa under the general rules applicable to third-country nationals in accordance with the Visa Code. If they already have a visa issued, they will need to fulfil, in addition, the entry conditions applicable to third-country nationals.

Third Country National family members of EU citizens residing in the UK will have to apply for a visa if they intend to travel to Italy. Please note:

• Residence cards issued by the UK under Directive 2004/38/EC to family members of EU citizens residing in the UK will no longer have visa exempting effect
• Residence cards issued by the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme to family members of EU citizens residing in the UK do not have visa exempting effect.

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

Holders of diplomatic, service and, exceptionally, ordinary passport (in the latter case subject to specific authorization from the Diplomatic Protocol) moving to Italy to serve the Diplomatic Mission of their own country, can apply for a long stay diplomatic visa.

The appointment is subject to prior communication. For booking, please write an email to the following address: visti.londra@esteri.it

Applicants should always appear in person.

1. Duly completed application form D for long stay visa (National visa) [click here];

2. Application checklist [click here]

3. Valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages, valid at least three months (original plus one photocopy). The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

4. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

5. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
6. Documentation proving the status of public officials: staff ID card (original plus one photocopy);
7. Verbal Note from the corresponding Diplomatic Mission in UK, showing:
   
   1. personal details;
   2. the role to be hold (specifying if a new position is being created or if replacing someone. In the latter event, name and role of the person to be replaced need to be mentioned);
   3. when employment will start;
   4. details of family members who are going to join the applicant.
8. One way travel tickets reservation. Please note:
   
   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;
   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;
   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person.

The residency visa allows entrance into Italy to individuals with high self-sustaining incomes and financial assets who have a real necessity to stably residing in Italy and who can demonstrate a steady and adequate income (not from subordinate work) and other financial resources. This visa is issued solely to those applicants who are planning to move permanently to Italy and it does not allow the recipient to work.

Applicants must provide:

1. Duly completed application form D for long stay visa (National visa) [click here];

2. Application checklist [click here]

3. Valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages, valid at least three months (original plus one photocopy). The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

4. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

5. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
6. Documented and detailed guarantee of substantial and stable private income originating from pensions, annuities, income from properties or investments funds and income from stable economic and commercial activities. Income deriving from subordinate work will not be taken into consideration. Please provide official letters from banks, financial consultants, financial institutions, UK Social Security institutes, etc. and last 2 years of your Income Tax Return;
7. A registered lease or deed for property in Italy;
8. A letter explaining the reasons of your intention to move to Italy;
9. One way travel tickets reservation. Please note:
   
   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;
   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;
   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

   Residency visa can be also issued to dependent spouse and minor children and dependent children over 18 living with their parents, assuming that the applicant can demonstrate adequate financial assets to support them. A birth/marriage certificate will be required (original plus one photocopy). Please, note:
   

   1. marriage certificates older than 6 months will NOT be accepted;
   2. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country;
   3. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note.

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

The family reunification visa allows entrance in Italy to:

A. Spouse, if not legally separated and not under 18 years of age;

B. Civil partners;

C. Unmarried children under 18 years of age (on application submission), including children of the spouse and children born out of wedlock, provided that the other parent (if there is another parent), has given his/her consent;

D. Dependent children who have reached their majority, if they are unable to support their indispensable necessities of life because of their health conditions entailing total disability;

E. Dependent parents:

1. if they have no other descendants in their country of origin or provenance who can support them;
2. if they are over 65 and other descendants in their country of origin or provenance cannot support them for serious and documented health reasons.

Please note:

Dependent parents must prove there are no descendants in their country of origin (if applicable), their health condition and their dependant status with any evidence, such as: wire transfers, receipts of money transfers, provision of accommodation, rental payments, documents certifying that the applicant does not have income deriving from annuities or pensions, demonstration that the applicant does not have any source of income or rather that their sources of income is insufficient for their own maintenance in the local economic and social context.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Duly completed application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus one photocopy), valid at least 3 months and with at least two blank pages. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. "Nulla Osta" (entry clearance) issued no more than 6 months earlier by the competent "Sportello Unico" (Unified Immigration Desk);
5. Proof of relationship: marriage/civil partnership/birth certificate (original plus one photocopy). Please, note:
   
   1. marriage/civil partnership certificates older than 6 months will NOT be accepted;
   2. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country;
   3. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note;
   4. those applying for permanent residency in Italy through marriage to an Italian citizen must register their marriage at the Consulate General of Italy in London before applying for the visa;
6. Residence card with at least 1 year validity or long-term resident’s EU residence permit of the family member in Italy (original plus one photocopy), alongside with a declaration requesting the presence of the family member in Italy and swearing to be in possession of the requisites foreseen by the law;
7. In case of minors, written consent from the other parent granting permission to travel. Please, note:
   
   1. the parental consent must be notarised by a UK notary;
   2. if the parent lives abroad, the consent must be notarised by the Italian Consulate of their country of residence (for more information, please visit the following website https://www.esteri.it/mae/en/servizi/stranieri/traduzionelegalizzazione-dei-documenti.html). This also applies when parents living abroad nominate a guardian;
   3. a photocopy of both parents’ passports must be provided.
8. One way travel tickets reservation. Please note:
   
   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;
   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;
   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

PLEASE NOTE

Family members of an Italian or EU citizen do not need the Nulla Osta. Particularly:

1. Visa exempt nationalities can join the family member in Italy without applying for any visa. Once in Italy, they must register themselves with the local Anagrafe and apply for a residence card at the relevant Questura within 3 months from their arrival.
2. Those nationalities who require a visa, can apply for a tourism visa to travel to Italy as a EU family member and, within 3 months from their arrival, they must register themselves with the local Anagrafe and apply for a residence card at the relevant Questura.

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

The Investor Visa is an entry visa for non-EU nationals who intend to make an investment or donation in Italy. It allows the investors/donors to acquire residency in Italy by opting into one of the following categories:

A. A minimum of EUR 2 million in Italian government bonds;

B. A minimum of EUR 500.000 in Italian corporate bonds or shares (reduced to EUR 250.000 if investing in innovative start-ups);

C. A minimum of EUR 1 million in projects of public interest in Italy, such as culture, education, ecology, immigration management, research and development, arts, and heritage.

Applicants should always appear in person. All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants must provide:

1. Duly completed application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages, valid at least three months (original plus one photocopy). The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Nulla Osta (authorisation) to be issued by the Investor Visa for Italy Committee (the Nulla Osta is issued after submitting the application, alongside with the required documentation, through the following IT platform: investorvisa.mise.gov.it)
6. One way travel tickets reservation. Please note:
   
   1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;
   2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;
   3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required.

Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Healthcare documentation including:
   
   1. Medical records issued in the country of residence certifying the actual illness;
   2. Declaration of the Italian private or public health facility (the latter must be accredited with the National Health Service) specifying type of treatment, start date, duration and estimated cost;
   3. Certificate issued by the Italian health facility confirming the patient has provided a 30% deposit of the estimated cost for the healthcare requested or, alternatively, specific regional resolution or authorisation issued by the Ministry of Health within the framework of humanitarian programmes.
6. Supporting documentation proving the applicant has sufficient resources in Italy to cover the outstanding amounts for healthcare, food and lodging outside the health facility, and repatriation of the patient and his/her accompanying person. Furthermore, for any person accompanying the patient, health insurance covering a minimum of €30,000 for emergency hospitalisation and repatriation expenses is required.
7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation or evidence that the applicant has his/her own means of transport This also applies to the accompanying person. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

The Mission Visa allows entry into Italy for political, governmental or public utility functions.
In particular, the following categories are eligible for a Mission visa:

A. Officials employed by administrations of foreign countries on a work mission in Italy;

B. Staff of the international organizations with which Headquarters Agreements are in force;

C. Staff with fixed-term contracts of international organizations with which Headquarters Agreements are in force and personalities and members of delegations officially invited to participate in conferences, meetings, conventions and events;

D. Diplomatic officials, for short official stays in Italy, provided that they do not involve in formal accreditation or notification;

E. Foreign citizens involved in international organizations for cultural or research activities (for example: researchers and students of the University Institute of European Studies or trainees at FAO or other specialized United Nations Agencies);

F. Civilian personnel destined to serve at NATO military bases (military personnel are visa-free), which concern both the civilian component (non-military employees directly employed by the US Department of Defense and their armed forces) and the "civilian personnel" (technicians and contractors of private companies, employees of other American Departments and other personnel). For applicants who are located in the United States, the visa will be issued following the request of the US Department of Defense or the Department the person concerned works for. For applicants outside the United States, the request will reach the Representations with a letter from the U.S.S.S.S.O. (diplomatic-legal office that deals with military and civilian personnel destined for Italy) on headed paper of the American Embassy in Rome;

G. Personalities and foreigners who hold high civil and religious offices;

H. Personalities and members of delegations officially invited by the Italian Government;

I. Participants in events and meetings envisaged by bilateral or multilateral agreements to which Italy is a contracting party;

J. Third-country nationals who are official journalist in their Country and that must be credited in Italy. In this case they need a Nulla Osta (non-impediment declaration) issued by the press office of the External Affairs Ministry. Their application must be submitted by diplomatic authority;

K. Athletes who participate in sports events or intend to stay in Italy for training periods longer than 90 days, following the official request from CONI;

L. Family members of the main applicant.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];

2. Application checklist [click here]

3. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

4. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

5. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
6. Documentation proving the status of public officials or international organisations sent in Italy in the performance of their duties or of individuals whose activity or purpose of the stay is in the public interest for the relations between Italy and the home state/country (i.e. staff ID card, original plus one photocopy);
7. Verbal note of the corresponding Ministry or employer Organisation stating the mission program and the authority covering the expenses related to the mission;
8. Round-trip travel ticket reservation or evidence that the applicant has his/her own means of transport This also applies to the accompanying person. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);
9. In case of family members, proof of relationship: marriage/civil partnership/birth certificate (original plus one photocopy). Please, note:
   
   1. marriage certificates/civil partnership certificates older than 6 months will NOT be accepted;
   2. certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country;
   3. certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note.

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

Applicants should always appear in person. All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants must provide:

1. Duly completed application form D for long stay visa (National visa) [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages, valid at least three months (original plus one photocopy). The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;
3. Cover letter;
4. Permesso di soggiorno (Italian residence permit). Please note:
   
   1. in the case of a lost or stolen permesso di soggiorno, a copy of the report made to the police authorities is required;
   2. in the case of an expired permesso di soggiorno, original or copy of the expired document is required.
5. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months.

PLEASE NOTE

A. After the application has been submitted, the visa office needs to be authorised from the Questura (Police station) which originally issued the permesso di soggiorno. The visa is issued only after the relevant Questura releases the necessary authorisation. The visa processing time starts when the authorisation is received and all documents are provided (please see letter B). Therefore, it is not possible to rush the processing time.

B. Once the authorisation has been received, the applicant must provide one way travel ticket reservation. Please note:

1. if travelling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator, showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;
2. if travelling by car, ferry tickets or Eurotunnel tickets are required, alongside with car registration (original plus photocopy) car insurance (original plus photocopy) and driving licence If renting a car, the same documentation is required plus the car rental documents;
3. if travelling to multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets between each country is mandatory;
4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Round-trip travel ticket reservation or evidence that the applicant has his/her own means of transport This also applies to the accompanying person. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);
6. Adequate documentation regarding the applicant’s effective religious qualification:
   
   • original letter from your Congregation/Parish in the UK stating your position within the parish and your assignment in Italy;
7. Adequate and documented assurances regarding the religious nature of the event in which the applicant intends to take part or regarding the activity to be carried out in Italy. The letter from Congregation in Italy should specify the purpose of the trip, the name and address of the organisation where the applicant intends to stay and the length of stay. Such letter should also mention the coverage of all living expenses, including medical assistance (only for long term visas). Specific mention should be made to the fact that, while in Italy, the applicant’s personal needs will be met in full by the Congregation; the letter must bear an official seal from the Holy See's competent authorities (SEGRETERIA DI STATO VATICANO) or Nunziatura Apostolica in U.K.;
8. Travel insurance, which must be issued in UK or in one of the Schengen countries, covering the intended period of stay: insurances are accepted only with a letter from the insurance provider confirming overseas coverage, of which every Schengen country must be included. The letter from your insurance company must state that you will be covered for any medical expenses, hospitalisation and repatriation for at least 30,000 euros during your entire stay in the Schengen area. If your current insurance company does not provide such a coverage, you must find an international insurance;
9. Proof economic means of support as per Ministry of Interior Directive 1.3.2000 or declaration of assumption of responsibility by the religious organization (if all living expenses are not covered by the Italian Congregation).

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];

2. Application checklist: for short stay visa [click here], for long stay visa [click here]

3. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

4. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

5. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
6. For stays longer than three months “Nulla osta” (authorisation) for research from the Immigration Desk (SUI) of the relevant Questura (Police Station);
7. For short stays documentation certifying that the applicant is a researcher employed by a foreign university or research institution;
8. For short stays hosting agreement (Convenzione di accoglienza) concluded with the applicant by the Italian accredited University or Research Institute specifying the research program activity, salary and insurance;
9. Round-trip travel ticket reservation or evidence that the applicant has his/her own means of transport This also applies to the accompanying person. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

• Self-employed professionals and Entrepreneurs (requirements are being updated)

A) Self-Employed professionals are those mentioned in the list of the Italian Ministry of Justice ‘Associazione delle Professioni non Regolamentate’ according to D.Lgs 206/2007 art. 26 comma 3 and according to ‘Elenco Professioni Vigilate’ are included in ordini, collegi e albi professionali (professional orders, professional boards and bulletin boards). For medical professions the visa is issued upon recognition of your University Degree by the Italian Ministry of Health.

B) Entrepreneurs are considered those business operators who intend to perform in Italy a commercial activity that is considered significant for the Italian economy.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Declaration by the Office authorized to issue any required certification, license and authorization, to receive notices of commencement of business activity, or by the Body which supervises professional associations. Such declarations should be issued within the previous three months;
6. Declaration of parametri di riferimento (list of specific assets to perform different commercial or professional activities) issued by the local Chamber of Commerce or by the pertinent professional order. Such amount cannot be lower than the triple of the minimum social welfare yearly income (14.000 Euro);
7. Proof of income earned during the preceding fiscal year in the country of residence, higher than the minimum level provided by the law for exemption from participation in medical and health public assistance (8.500 Euro);
8. Nulla Osta (authorization) issued within the previous 90 days by the competent Italian Questura (Police Commissary);
9. Availability of a suitable lodging;
10. Round-trip travel ticket reservation or evidence that the applicant has his/her own means of transport This also applies to the accompanying person. Please note:
    
    1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
    2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
    3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
    4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

• Partners and Chairmen of Italian Companies Partners and Chairmen (listed in D.I. 850/2001) in Italian S.p.A., S.r.l. and SAPA, which must have been operating for at least three years.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Certification of enrolment of the firm in the Business Registry (Visura Camerale)
6. Copy of the declaration of responsibility sent by legal representative of the Italian company to the local Italian DTL (Territorial Labour Office) stating that, in virtue of the contract stipulated, the applicant will not be employed as a subordinate worker;
7. Nulla Osta (authorization) issued within the previous 90 days earlier by the competent Italian Questura (Police Commissary);
8. Availability of a suitable lodging;
9. Round-trip travel ticket reservation or evidence that the applicant has his/her own means of transport This also applies to the accompanying person. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to letter a), b), c).

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

• Managers or highly qualified employees, university language tutors and university professors, translators and interpreters

A) Managers or highly qualified employees of companies based in Italy or with branches in Italy, or of branch offices of foreign companies headquartered in a member country of the World Trade Organisation, or managers of main offices in Italy of Italian firms or firms of another EU member;

B) University language tutors and university professors intending to fill an academic position in Italian universities or in an educational institute;

C) translators and interpreters.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Certification, issued by the competent Labour Territorial Service of the Italian DTL (Territorial Labour Office) stating that, in virtue of the contract stipulated, the applicant will not be employed as a subordinate worker;
6. Availability of a suitable lodging;
7. A contract showing a yearly income higher than the minimum level provided by the law for exemption from participation in medical and health public assistance (8.500 Euro);
8. Nulla Osta (authorization) issued by the competent Italian Questura (Police Commissary) within the previous 90 days;
9. Travel tickets reservation, please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to letter a), b), c).

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

• Sport personnel and Athletes

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Declaration of consent by CONI (Italian National Olympic Committee sent directly to the competent Italian Diplomatic/ Consular Representation, indicating the athlete’s personal data, sport practiced, and details and address of the team/club of destination. This statement must be accompanied by the Nulla Osta (authorization) of the Italian Questura (Police Commissary), stating that the sport practiced is included in the list of activities entitled to apply for a sport-self-employment visa. The Nulla Osta should be issued within the previous 90 days;
6. Round-trip travel ticket reservation for short-term Schengen Visa shorter than 90 days. One-way travel tickets reservation for long-term National visa longer than 90 days. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

• Artists and entertainment industry personnel - well renown artists and his/her entourage or artists invited by renown Italian institutions or theatres (Schengen Visa only)

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Duly completed application form [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Job contract ensuring the self-employee’s compensation is higher than the amount provided by the Italian national contracts for the same category of employees;
6. Proof of lodging;
7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation for short-term Schengen Visa shorter than 90 days. One-way travel tickets reservation for long-term National visa longer than 90 days. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to letter a), b), c).

Please write an email to the Visa Office (visti.londra@esteri.it) if you need to apply for a long term (more than 90 days) artist self-employment visa or if you do not belong to the category of well renown artists or if you are not invited by a renown Italian Institution or theatre.

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];

2. Application checklist [click here]

3. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the duration of the visa and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

4. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

5. Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
6. Nulla Osta (Entry Clearance) issued from "SUI" (Unified Immigration Desk)/ANPAL (National Agency for Active Labour Policies)/CONI (talian National Olympic Committee) in Italy. The Nulla Osta (entry clearance) and the "contratto di soggiorno per lavoro" (job contract) need to be sent to the Diplomatic Representation.
   The “Nulla Osta” is valid 6 months from the issuing day, therefore you should submit your request accordingly;
7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation or evidence that the applicant has his/her own means of transport This also applies to the accompanying person. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original and a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed. For short stay visas up to 90 days please download and fill up Schengen Visa application form [click here]. For long stay visas beyond 90 days please download and fill up Long term application form [click here];

2. Application checklist [click here]

3. 2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months and with at least with two blank pages for National/Long term visa. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

4. 3. Valid UK Residence Permit and UK eVisa share code (original and photocopy), valid at least 1 (one) month beyond the return date of your trip in Italy for Schengen/Short term visa. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus photocopy) for National/Long term visa;

   4. Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;

5. 5. Proof of being a high qualified professional. To support this, the applicant:

– must have a Bachelors’ Degree or a post-secondary professional qualification (lasting at least three years); OR

– must have at least three years of relevant professional experience gained in the seven years prior to the application submission, proving that the applicant is a manager or specialist in the specific field; OR

– must have a professional qualification supported by at least five years of professional experience (providing, as supporting evidence, the employment contract or the binding offer + company information and a letter from the employer specifying: role, starting date and duration of the contract.)

Alternatively, in case of applicants who hold one of the professions listed in the following link: Elenco Professioni regolamentate e autorità competenti – Home – impresainungiorno.gov.it – the qualification must be assessed by the competent authorities, as listed in Legislative Decree No. 206 of November 6, 2007, before the visa application has been submitted.

The documentation proving the relevant education issued by authorities/entities NOT belonging to EU countries, must be submitted in certified copy (or copy conforming to the original), after having been legalized by these offices or apostilled by the competent authorities, accompanied by a translation into Italian. The translation must be certified as faithful to the original text.

6. Proof of income earned during the previous fiscal year in the country of residence, which must be higher than the minimum level provided by the law for exemption from participation in medical and health public assistance (8.500 EUR);
7. Availability of a suitable lodging;
8. Health insurance covering the entire length of the stay;
9. Previous experience in the field of work (6 months minimum);
10. Previous experience in the field of work (6 months minimum);
11. Round-trip travel ticket reservation for short-term Schengen Visa shorter than 90 days. One way travel tickets reservation for long-term National visa longer than 90 days. Please note:
12. Health insurance covering the entire length of the stay;

• if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/train line/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
• if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel ticket reservations are required showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to;
• if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel ticket reservations are mandatory showing passenger’s name, dates, from/to between each country is mandatory.

Applicants for remote worker visa must also submit:

• Employment contract/offer; salary must not be lower than the average net salary for the field, which can be checked here: http://dati.istat.it/viewhtml.aspx?il=blank&vh=0000&vf=0&vcq=1100&graph=0&viewmetadata=1&lang=it&QueryId=12006
• A written declaration by the employer, ID copy and proof of the absence of convictions in the previous 5 years, as per Art. 22, comma 5- bis, del Testo Unico.
  

  Please note that it can take up to 90 days to process remote worker visa applications and up to 120 days to process digital nomad visa applications.

PLEASE NOTE

Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA.

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here

Applicable visa fee, in Pound Sterling (£), is as per the current exchange rate and may be subject to change without notice.

VFS service fee (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

All fees can be paid by cash (except in Manchester) or Credit/Debit card. We cannot accept payments with American Express.

Cheque payments and direct bank transfers are not accepted.

All fees are non-refundable.

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

1. Application form duly filled up and signed [click here];
2. Valid passport or travel document (original plus photocopy), valid at least 3 months beyond the return date of your trip from Italy and at least with two blank pages. The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;

3. Valid UK Residence Permit (original plus one photocopy) and valid UK share code proving your immigration status, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

   PLEASE NOTE: other types of share code (i.e. right to work) are not valid for visa purposes.;

4. Passport-style photo, full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
5. Documentation proving the status of public officials: staff ID card (original plus one photocopy);
6. Verbal Note from the corresponding Diplomatic Mission in UK, specifying:
   
   1. purpose of the trip
   2. dates of intended stay
   3. address while in Italy
7. Round-trip travel ticket reservation. Please note:
   
   1. if traveling by plane, train or bus the ticket must be printed directly from the airline/trainline/bus operator showing passenger name, dates, from/to;
   2. if traveling by car, ferry tickets or euro tunnel tickets are required alongside with car registration (original and photocopy), car insurance (original and photocopy), driving licence (original plus photocopy); if you are renting a car the same documentation is required plus the car rentals documents;
   3. if traveling among multiple Schengen countries, travel tickets are mandatory between every border;
   4. if using the services of third parties, such as travel agencies, note that they will be accepted only if they are based in the U.K. or in one of the Schengen countries. Travel tickets must always be issued from the airline/trainline/bus operator themselves and any other paper will not be considered. This applies to point 1), 2), 3);

PLEASE NOTE

For Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine and Travel Documents Holders (with the three letters code XXA or XXB appearing in the ICAO) need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

List of Diplomatic passports that DO NOT require a visa for Italy.

List of Service/Official passports that DO NOT require a visa for Italy.

List of Special passports that DO NOT require a visa for Italy.

The visa is free of charge only if the applicant complies with all the above requirements.
Please be aware that, at the time of your appointment, your application will not be accepted unless presented with all required documents. if all the items listed above are not presented, the applicant will have to reschedule a new appointment.

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

The minimum processing time of a Schengen visa application is 15 calendar days. It can take up to 45 days for Schengen Visa and up to 90 days for National Visa.

Applicants can apply until 6 months before their travel dates with the exception of the seafarers, in the performance of their duties, no more than 9 months in advance to the intended travel date.

One cannot apply if there are less than 15 days before their travel date, meaning that they cannot apply if there are less than 15 calendar days, between the application reaches the Consulate, and their travel date. Please kindly note that this rule is totally independent from the processing time which depends on applicants’ nationalities and, in case of incomplete documents submitted, starts only when the Consulate receives all the necessary documents, if considered correct.

Please be aware that it is not possible to expedited processing time because the system is completely automated.

In order to avoid any delays in the visa application process, it is paramount that the visa application is complete and its documents submitted are as per the Mission’s requirements (see Documents Required for the different visa categories).

Applicants also need to be aware that, especially during holiday seasons (i.e. Easter, Summer, Christmas), the appointments (see Schedule an Appointment) are being booked very quickly as the Mission only processes a fixed amount of visa applications on a daily basis. 

Furthermore, applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Therefore, VFS recommends all applicants:

1. to book their appointment as soon as they know they’ll be travelling;
2. to ensure that their visa application’s documentation meets the Mission’s requirements;
3. to make sure the minimum time eligibility is respected.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite centre in Manchester and Edinburgh need to calculate 2 extra working days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the VFS London office, from where it is forwarded to the Mission in London the following day.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

For Italy every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from an online Schengen visa application form (VAF).

• Applicant needs to duly complete the visa application form as mentioned below:
  
  
  1. For Schengen application please click here
  2. For Long stay application please click here