Italy Business Visa - Definitive Guide

Being one of the top economies in the world, as well as one of the largest exporters of goods, business in Italy is a golden goose. People over the years have been utilizing the Italy Business Visa to enter the country and expand their business. Apart from this, being a large manufacturer for fashion apparel, automobiles, and so on, there is no lack of opportunities.

What is Italy Business Visa?

To take part in business activities such as meetings, conferences, signing agreements, expanding a business and so on, most people require a permit to enter the country. However, for citizens of Schengen area and a few other visa-exempt nations, the entry does not require any permit. Similar to other Schengen short term permits, this C category visa is also issued for a duration of 90 days in a 180-day period. It is issued in the form of a single entry, double-entry, or multiple entries.

How to apply for a business visa for Italy?

The application for the business visa for Italy from India can be done in multiple ways. The application form can be filled in offline mode depending upon where you are submitting the application. You will have to submit the application at one of the VACs assigned by the embassy or consulate for the region you belong to. Before applying, ensure that you meet the eligibility conditions for the visa. Also, procure all the documents as per the Italy business visa checklist . You may then proceed to make the application as follows -

At a VAC -

1. Download the offline Italy business visa application form from the website of the VAC.
2. Fill in all the details on the form. You must type it and then print. Handwritten forms are also accepted.
3. Book an appointment for the visa application and biometric submission at a VAC. You can do this online, or by calling them.
4. Visit the VAC with your documents, completed application form, to submit your application. You must pay the fees here.

Eligibility for Italy Business Visa

To be able to apply for the Italy business visa for Indian citizens, you must meet the following eligibility criteria -

• You must be present in India while applying from the country. If you are on a resident permit in another country, you can apply over there.
• You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.
• Your primary purpose of the visit must be to take part in business-related activities.
• You must possess sufficient funds to support your stay in the country.
• You must apply for the permit only if -

• 1. Italy is your only destination, or
  2. Italy is one of your multiple Schengen destinations - in which case you will be spending the majority of the travel period in Italy, or, your port of entry in Italy.

Documents required for Italy Business Visa

As per the Italy business visa requirements , the following are the list of documents you have to produce -

• A valid passport
• 2 valid photographs
• Covering letter from the Indian company/organization
• Document proving the economic status of the sending Indian company
• Travel itinerary for the business trip
• Proof of accommodation
• Confirmed round flight tickets
• Invitation letter from the Italian company/organization in Italian.
• Travel insurance covering expenses up to 30000 Euros
• Proof of sufficient funds to show that you can cover your expenses in Italy.

Italy Business Visa Photo Specifications

The Italy business visa photo specifications are as folllows -

• Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Head must occupy a central position in the photo
• It must have been captured in the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey with a matte finish
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral facial expression
• Glasses: Thin-framed and prescription glasses are permitted
• Headgears are allowed only for religious reasons
• Facial hair is permitted

Italy Business Visa processing time

The processing time for the Italy Schengen business visa is usually around 10-15 working days. However, this may vary depending upon several factors such as the number of entries, the volume of applications, additional verification requirements, and so on. Since the processing time is variable, it is suggested to apply for it well in advance.

Italy Business Visa fees

The fees for the Italy business visa for Indians depend on a few factors such as the number of entries, biometric charges, as well as any additional service charges. Since the application fee asked by the embassy is in Euros, the exact amount may vary according to the foreign exchange rates. As a result, it is advised to check the exact amount before starting the application.