Skip to content
2 ways to enter

Italy visas

Italy business visa

Short business visits use the Schengen short-stay rules. Eligible travellers can visit without a visa; others need a Schengen visa.

Ways to get a Italy business visa

  1. Visa-free business visit

    No visa needed

    Ordinary passport holders from the listed visa-waiver countries and territories can make short business visits.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

  2. Short-stay Schengen visa for business

    Visa needed

    Business visitors who need a visa can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa.

    Stay
    Usually up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
    Valid for
    Usually the intended trip for new applicants; up to five years for multiple-entry visas.
    Entries
    One, two or multiple entries.
    Fee
    €90 standard. Fee reductions, exemptions and increases can apply. An external service can charge up to €120 extra.
    Processing
    15 calendar days for an accepted application with no issues; delays can occur.
    1. Apply to the embassy or consulate of your main destination.
    2. Submit the application no more than six months before entry.
    3. Attend the first application in person for an interview.
    4. Give fingerprints and a digital photo if required.

Who needs it

Business visitors who are not covered by a visa exemption or another accepted permission need a Schengen visa.

Who doesn't

Ordinary passport holders from the listed visa-waiver countries can make short business visits without a visa.

How to apply

  1. Apply to Italy's embassy or consulate if Italy is your main destination.
  2. Submit your application no more than six months before entry.
  3. Attend in person for your first application and interview.
  4. Provide fingerprints and a digital photo if required.

What to bring

  • An accepted travel document.
  • Fingerprints and a digital photo, if required.

Good to know

  • Count short visits across the Schengen Area together.
  • Italy does not allow work under the short-stay visa waiver.
  • Permission for a business visit does not establish permission to take a job.

Questions

Do I need a business visa for Italy?

Business visitors who are not covered by a visa exemption or another accepted permission need a Schengen visa. Ordinary passport holders from the listed visa-waiver countries can make short business visits without a visa.

What are the ways to get a business visa for Italy?

There are 2 options: Visa-free business visit (no visa at all); Short-stay Schengen visa for business (a visa from an embassy).

Who can go to Italy without a business visa?

Ordinary passport holders from the listed visa-waiver countries and territories can make short business visits.

How long can I stay on a Italy business visa?

Up to 90 days across the Schengen Area in any 180-day period.

How much does a Italy business visa cost?

Standard Schengen visa fee: €90. Reductions, exemptions and higher fees can apply. External service fees can be up to €120.

How long does a Italy business visa take?

15 calendar days for an accepted visa application with no issues; delays can occur.

How long is a Italy business visa valid?

Usually the planned trip for new visa applicants; multiple-entry visas can be valid for up to five years. Entries: One, two or multiple entries, as issued..

What documents do I need for a Italy business visa?

An accepted travel document.; Fingerprints and a digital photo, if required..

How do I apply for a Italy business visa?

1. 1. Apply to Italy's embassy or consulate if Italy is your main destination. 2. 2. Submit your application no more than six months before entry. 3. 3. Attend in person for your first application and interview. 4. 4. Provide fingerprints and a digital photo if required.

What rules do I have to follow on a Italy business visa?

Count short visits across the Schengen Area together. Italy does not allow work under the short-stay visa waiver.

Reviewed by