---
title: Italy visa for citizens of Eritrea
description: "Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Italy and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90 + €30 service fee. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/italy/eritrea
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Italy visa for citizens of Eritrea

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.*

Application site: https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/

## 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

- **Valid passport (issued within last 10 years, 2 blank pages)** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 9 months beyond intended stay.
- **Completed Schengen visa application form** (Identity): Signed in person at appointment.
- **Recent passport-size photograph (35x45mm)** (Identity): White background, no glasses.
- **Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)** (Travel): Valid for entire Schengen area.
- **Flight reservation (round trip)** (Travel): Not yet paid ticket, but confirmed itinerary.
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation)** (Travel): Covering entire stay.
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Showing sufficient funds.
- **Employment letter (or proof of student status)** (Employment): Stating position, salary, and leave approval.
- **Travel itinerary (day-by-day plan)** (Travel): Optional but recommended.
- **Passport copy (data page)** (Identity): Copies of previous Schengen visas if any.
- **Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): For family visits.
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of trip** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/)

## More

- [Italy visa for every passport](/visa/italy)
- [Every destination for Eritrea passport holders](/visa/passport/eritrea)