Italy has confirmed that it will roll out a fully digital visa application system in the second quarter of 2026. The reform positions Italy among the first countries within the Schengen Area to implement an end to end online visa process covering both short stay and long stay categories.
The new platform was formally presented on 25 February 2026 and is being developed through cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy and the Ministry of the Interior of Italy. The objective is to modernise consular services, reduce paperwork, and align Italy’s visa procedures with the European Union’s broader digital border management strategy.
What Is Changing in the Italy Visa Application Process
Under the new e visa system, applicants will be able to:
1: Complete visa forms entirely online
2: Upload supporting documents digitally
3: Pay visa fees through secure electronic payment gateways
4: Track application status via a centralised portal
The system will integrate:
1: Short stay Schengen visas for tourism, business, family visits
2: Long stay national D type visas for work, study, family reunification
Previously, applicants often faced repeated data entry, physical document submissions, and manual processing at different stages. The digital transformation aims to eliminate duplication and reduce administrative delays.
Will Biometrics Still Be Required
Yes. Fingerprints and facial images will still be mandatory in line with Schengen regulations. Applicants will continue attending appointments at Italian consulates or authorised visa centres for biometric capture.
However, officials have indicated that in the future, remote identity verification may be introduced for low risk repeat travellers. This could eventually reduce in person appointments, though such changes are not expected immediately and may take several years to implement.
Alignment With EU Entry Exit System and ETIAS
Italy’s digital visa upgrade is part of broader European border reforms. The country is preparing for the launch of the:
1: European Union Entry Exit System
2: European Travel Information and Authorisation System
Automated border gates are also being expanded at:
1: Rome-Fiumicino Airport
2: Milan-Malpensa Airport
These upgrades aim to improve passenger flow, enhance security screening, and support biometric based border checks once EU wide systems become fully operational.
Impact on Employers and Corporate Mobility
For companies relocating staff to Italy or sending executives on short term assignments, the digital system is expected to offer long term efficiency benefits.
Key advantages may include:
1: Faster document submission
2: Centralised application tracking
3: Reduced courier and paperwork costs
4: Better transparency for HR and mobility teams
However, authorities have cautioned that implementation will vary across consulates during the transition phase. Some missions may adopt the new digital process earlier, while others temporarily maintain legacy procedures.
Mobility managers should:
Confirm which consulates accept electronic submissions
Secure biometric appointments early, especially before peak travel seasons
Update onboarding processes to recognise digital confirmations rather than physical visa stickers alone
Train HR teams on new documentation workflows
When Will Italy’s Digital Visa Portal Go Live
The launch is scheduled for the second quarter of 2026. During the initial phase, applicants may experience a hybrid system where some steps are digital and others remain in person.
Full operational consistency across all consulates may take additional time as technical integration and staff training progress.
What This Means for Applicants in 2026
Travellers planning to visit or relocate to Italy should expect:
1: More streamlined online submission
2: Reduced paperwork errors
3: Clearer communication through digital tracking systems
4: Continued biometric attendance requirements
Those applying during the early rollout phase should carefully follow consulate specific instructions to avoid delays caused by mixed procedures.
