Italy transit visa

Unless exempt, citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Senegal, Syria, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan need an airport transit visa in Italy. Exemptions cover certain visa and residence permit holders, diplomatic passport holders, family members of EU single market citizens and flight crew.

There are 2 options: Airport transfer without a visa (transit without a visa); Airport transit visa (a visa from an embassy).

The general visa-free airport transfer rule covers less than one day.

Up to 24 hours, if you meet the conditions. Use one airport, remain in its international transit area and complete the transfer in less than 24 hours. Your flights and the airport layout must allow this. Travellers subject to an airport transit visa requirement must hold that visa or qualify for an exemption.

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: If your connection requires leaving the international transit area, the airport transit exemption does not apply. You must meet Italy's entry rules.

Stay within the international transit area when relying on transit without a visa. Check that your connection can be completed without crossing the border.

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Italy visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

On Italy's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.