Italy Business Visa - Definitive Guide

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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

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. 

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. 

Once you have submitted your application successfully and have paid the fees, you will receive your visa within the processing time. If you have been approved of the permit, you may either pick it directly from the mission or from VAC. Alternately, you can opt for the visa to be sent to you via post. 

You may track the status of your application by visiting the online portal of the VAC and enter the application number and name. Alternately, you can contact your visa agency for the status. Also, you may opt for SMS notifications about your visa processing status. 

Once you receive this permit, you will have to keep the following points in mind -

• Make a note of the validity date of your permit. Ensure that you do not stay back beyond this period. 
• You must travel to Italy within 6 months of the day your visa is issued or as per mentioned on the visa sticker.
• Carry your travel documents on you while you are within the country.
• While on a business permit, you cannot take part in work or sell goods or services to the public.
• You must abide by the Italian custom rules, as well as respect the culture.