Skip to content
1 way to enter

Italy visas

Italy visa on arrival

Italy can issue a Schengen visa at the border in exceptional cases. This is reserved for urgent, unforeseen circumstances.

Ways to get a Italy visa on arrival

  1. Exceptional single-entry Schengen visa

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who can prove they could not apply beforehand because of unforeseen and compelling reasons, and who meet the normal visa conditions, may qualify.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
    1. Request the visa at the border checkpoint.
    2. Show evidence of the exceptional circumstances and meet the normal visa conditions.

Who needs it

Visa-required travellers who could not apply in advance because of unforeseen and compelling reasons may qualify.

How to apply

  1. Present your request at the border checkpoint.
  2. Prove why unforeseen and compelling circumstances prevented an application in advance.
  3. Meet the regular conditions for a Schengen visa.

What to bring

  • Evidence of why you could not apply in advance.
  • Documents needed to meet the regular Schengen visa conditions; a detailed list is not specified.

Good to know

  • The circumstances must be exceptional.
  • If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interest or international obligations.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already have the required travel documents.
  • A death or sudden serious illness of a close relative or another close person is an example of circumstances that can support an exceptional case.
  • A separate border provision exists for qualifying family members of EU single market citizens.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Italy?

Visa-required travellers who could not apply in advance because of unforeseen and compelling reasons may qualify.

How long can I stay on a Italy visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days.

How long is a Italy visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Italy visa on arrival?

Evidence of why you could not apply in advance.; Documents needed to meet the regular Schengen visa conditions; a detailed list is not specified..

How do I apply for a Italy visa on arrival?

1. 1. Present your request at the border checkpoint. 2. 2. Prove why unforeseen and compelling circumstances prevented an application in advance. 3. 3. Meet the regular conditions for a Schengen visa.

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

The circumstances must be exceptional. If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interest or international obligations.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Italy?

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

Can a visa on arrival for Italy be refused?

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.

Where do I check the latest Italy visa on arrival rules?

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

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Italy?

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

Reviewed by