Here is the step-by-step guide on how to apply for an Italy Schengen visa: Check if you need a visa. Understand the type of visa you need. Determine where to lodge your application. Complete and download the visa application form. Schedule your visa appointment. Prepare the required documents. Attend your appointment. Wait for the visa to process.

A guided procedure will help you decide if you need to apply for a visa based on your nationality, country of residence, reasons for your visit and length of stay. If you need a visa for Italy, you will be provided with all the information and forms needed to submit your application.

US citizens are currently exempt from obtaining a visa to Italy. All American travellers who wish to visit Italy in the future will be required to apply for the travel authorisation and meet the ETIAS Italy requirements.

If you would like to travel to Italy, depending on your citizenship, the duration and purpose of your stay, a visa may be required before departure. Do you need a visa? To find out whether you need to apply for a visa click here. For additional information on the individual types of visa please see below: Tourism/Airport Transit; Business; Study

The national visa (i.e. a long-stay visa) permits only entry into Italy, but once across the border a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) is required and is the only document that enables you to reside legally in Italy.

Italy is a popular European destination for American travelers. As a U.S. passport holder, you can visit Italy without a visa for up to 90 days. From 2025, you’ll need to apply for ETIAS to travel visa-free. This page explains the ETIAS for U.S. nationals traveling to Italy.

While some U.S. travelers may still require an Italy Visa for tourism, business, transit, family or friends visitation, or medical treatment, most circumstances within these criteria will be covered under the scope of ETIAS. There are several types of Schengen Italy Visas, each intended for different travel purposes.