Italy Introduces Fully Digital Schengen Visa System This June
Good news for travellers! Italy is about to make applying for a Schengen visa faster, simpler, and almost entirely online.
From June 1, 2026, both short-stay (Type C) and long-stay (Type D) visa applicants will be able to complete the entire process digitally through a single government portal, confirmed by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For applicants, Italy’s new system means the entire Schengen visa process can be completed online: you can submit your application, upload all required documents, and pay fees through a single portal, while tracking your application in real time, eliminating uncertainty and repeated embassy visits.
The workflow is fully paperless, making Italy the first major Schengen country to adopt a completely digital visa process.
In-person visits will still be required for first-time applicants or those with complex cases to complete biometric enrolment or interviews, but repeat travellers can skip appointments if their biometric data is already stored in the Visa Information System (VIS).
Benefits for Business and Frequent Travellers
● Corporate travellers: Track multiple applications centrally for employees posted abroad.
● Faster processing: Officials estimate up to 40% reduction in processing times, allowing consular staff to focus on decision-making rather than data entry.
How to Prepare
To avoid delays when the portal launches, travellers should:
- Ensure passports are valid for at least 6 months.
- Prepare high-resolution digital copies of documents like bank statements, travel insurance, and accommodation proof.
- For companies: explore the sandbox environment opening in April 2026 to test the system ahead of launch.
What This Means for the Schengen Region
Italy’s move is part of a broader trend toward digital borders across Schengen countries.
France, Spain, and Germany are expected to roll out similar systems by 2027–2028 if Italy’s
system proves successful. The new platform is also a key step toward the EU’s unified pre-
arrival screening framework, including ETIAS authorisations later in 2026.
This change signals a simpler, faster, and more predictable travel experience for Schengen
visitors. Whether for business, study, or leisure, preparing your digital documents now will
ensure you can take full advantage of Italy’s streamlined system.
Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
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IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries
If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.
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Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".
When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.
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