Eritrea passport → Italy

Italy visa for citizens of Eritrea

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Italy and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 9 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	€50 per day of stay

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and prepare documents
Check if you need a Schengen visa for short stay (up to 90 days).
2
Complete online application form
Fill form on VFS Global/Prenot@mi system.
3
Book an appointment
Reserve a slot at the Italian embassy or VFS center in Asmara (or nearest accredited location).
4
Attend appointment and submit biometrics
Bring all documents, pay fee, and provide fingerprints/photo.
5
Wait for processing (15–45 days)
Embassy may request additional documents or interview.
6
Collect passport (or delivery)
Passport returned with visa sticker; check validity.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (issued within last 10 years, 2 blank pages)
Must be valid for at least 9 months beyond intended stay.
Completed Schengen visa application form
Signed in person at appointment.
Recent passport-size photograph (35x45mm)
White background, no glasses.
Passport copy (data page)
Copies of previous Schengen visas if any.

Travel

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area.
Flight reservation (round trip)
Not yet paid ticket, but confirmed itinerary.
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation)
Covering entire stay.
Travel itinerary (day-by-day plan)
Optional but recommended.

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Showing sufficient funds.

Employment

Employment letter (or proof of student status)
Stating position, salary, and leave approval.

Supporting

Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, if applicable)
Optional
For family visits.
Cover letter explaining purpose of trip
Optional
Briefly stating travel reason and itinerary.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay (or equivalent)

Bank statements
Cash travelers cheques
Sponsor letter

Proof of sufficient funds may be requested at border.

Good to know

Processing times can extend during peak seasons (summer, Christmas).
You must apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most days; if equal, apply for Italy.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign.

Insufficient travel insurance coverage

Purchase a policy covering at least €30,000.

Not enough proof of ties to home country

Provide strong employment or family ties.

FAQ

Do citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Italy?

Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Italy and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of Eritrea stay in Italy?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Italy visa cost for citizens of Eritrea?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Italy visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Eritrea need for Italy?

Valid passport (issued within last 10 years, 2 blank pages); Completed Schengen visa application form; Recent passport-size photograph (35x45mm); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Flight reservation (round trip); Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Italy?

At least 9 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

vistoperitalia.esteri.it

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