Lesotho passport → Italy

Italy visa for citizens of Lesotho

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

Citizens of Lesotho 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
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds (approx. €50 per day of stay)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type
Confirm you need a Schengen visa for tourism or other purpose.
2
Complete application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form online or manually.
3
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per the checklist.
4
Book an appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Italian Embassy in Maseru or designated visa centre.
5
Attend appointment and submit documents
Bring all original documents and copies. Pay the visa fee.
6
Provide biometrics
Fingerprints and photograph will be taken if not previously provided.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 to 45 calendar days.
8
Collect passport
Return to the embassy or centre to collect your passport with visa decision.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area.
Completed Schengen visa application form
Print and sign the form.
Recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm)
White background, no glasses, taken within 6 months.
Proof of residence in Lesotho (if not a citizen)
Optional
For non-Lesotho nationals residing in Lesotho.

Travel

Round-trip flight itinerary
Confirmed reservation showing entry and exit dates.
Accommodation proof (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
For entire stay.

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Show sufficient funds for the trip.

Employment

Employment letter (or proof of self-employment)
Stating position, salary, and approved leave.
Leave approval letter (if employed)
Optional
From employer confirming leave dates.

Supporting

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Must cover entire Schengen area and duration of stay.
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children)
Optional
If applicable.
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay at the embassy or visa centre.
Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
To show travel history.
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but recommended.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter

Funds must be clearly available and documented.

Good to know

Visa processing may take up to 45 days; apply well in advance.
Ensure passport has at least 3 months validity beyond intended departure from Schengen area.
Travel insurance must be valid for the entire Schengen area.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check the checklist and provide all required documents.

Insufficient financial means

Show adequate funds for the entire stay.

Travel insurance not meeting requirements

Purchase insurance with €30,000 minimum coverage for the whole Schengen area.

Previous visa violations or overstay

Ensure compliance with previous visa conditions.

FAQ

Do citizens of Lesotho need a visa for Italy?

Citizens of Lesotho 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 Lesotho stay in Italy?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Italy visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Lesotho need for Italy?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed Schengen visa application form; Recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary; Accommodation proof (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Italy?

At least 3 months.

Plan your trip to Italy

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