Do I Need ETIAS for Italy? A Complete Guide for Travelers

From cuisine to fashion to history and art, Italy sees millions of travelers every year and continues to be one of the most popular travel destinations. If you’re planning a trip to Italy and are wondering whether or not you need ETIAS authorization, you’re not alone.

Schengen travel requirements continue to grow and evolve, which means understanding what you need and what you don’t can feel complex. Don't worry - we're here to help.

This article will guide you through ever everything you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming visit to Rome, Venice, or wherever it is you’re off to in this richly vibrant country.

Do I need an ETIAS to visit Italy?

Yes. From 2025 on, if you are not a citizen of a Schengen country or do not hold a valid Schengen visa, you will need an ETIAS – even if you didn’t need one in the past.

The US, UK, Canada, and other countries all have visa-waiver agreements with the Schengen area (which includes Italy). Citizens of these countries do not need to obtain a visa to travel to Italy or other countries of the Schengen area (there are 29 in total).

Citizens from countries that don’t require visas, like the US, will need ETIAS to enter the Schengen area from 2025 onward.

For clarity, ETIAS is not a visa and it does not replace the Schengen visa process. ETIAS is an authorization that allows travelers to enter the Schengen area for short stays (under 90 days).

If you’re from a country with a visa-waiver agreement and are planning on staying in Italy for a duration longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa instead of ETIAS.

If you’re a citizen of a country that is not visa-exempt (such as Russia, China, or India), you do not need ETIAS to travel to Italy.

Do I need ETIAS if I have a visa for Italy?

No. If you hold a valid Italy visa (or Schengen visa), you do not need to apply for ETIAS. ETIAS is an “either/or” situation. Travelers need to either have a valid Schengen visa or ETIAS approval.

How to apply for ETIAS for Italy

It’s quick and easy! Applying for an ETIAS for your trip to Italy takes place entirely online. Make sure you have your passport, travel plans, and a debit or credit card ready.

Step one: fill out the form on ETIAS

Make sure you’re on the official ETIAS website. This form will ask for a few personal details such as your full name, passport number, nationality, and your travel details.

Step two: answer a few questions about your background

Next, you’ll need to answer a few questions about your background. According to the EU, you’ll need to provide your parents’ first names, your occupation, your highest level of education, and more. Just follow along with the prompts and make sure to answer every question truthfully.

Step three: pay the application fee

There is a small application fee that is required when applying for ETIAS. Expect to pay 7 euros. You can use your debit or credit card. The fee is waived for travelers who are under the age of 18 or over the age of 70.

Step four: wait for approval

Usually, applicants don’t have to wait long. The vast majority of the time, ETIAS approval is granted within minutes, if not immediately. However, in some cases, ETIAS approval can take up to 30 days. This is uncommon but possible, so it’s best to secure your ETIAS approval well ahead of your trip just to be sure.

Step five: enjoy your trip to Italy!

Once your ETIAS is approved, you are now approved to travel to Italy. Your ETIAS approval will be automatically digitally linked to your passport, so authorities at border control can see that you are permitted to enter the Schengen area. Still, it never hurts to screenshot your digital approval or print it out - just in case.

What do I do if my ETIAS for Italy was denied?

If your application was denied, you’ll receive an email telling you why it was denied. In this email, you’ll also receive information on how to submit an appeal.

How long is my ETIAS for Italy valid?

Your Italy ETIAS is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you renew your passport or get a new one for any reason, you will need to reapply for ETIAS.

If I get an ETIAS for Italy, can I travel to other Schengen countries with it?

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS does permit you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus. With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.

ETIAS for Italy: What to Know

• ETIAS is required for visitors to Italy who do not have a Schengen visa/passport from 2025 on.
• The ETIAS application is online and only takes a few minutes.
• Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
• Italian/Schengen country citizens do not need ETIAS.
• Current Italy visa holders do not need ETIAS.
• The ETIAS application costs 7 euros (but is free for those under the age of 18 or over 70).
• ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization that permits you to enter a Schengen country.
• ETIAS is valid for travel by air, land, or sea.
• ETIAS permits you to enter any Schengen country and Cyprus, but entry isn’t guaranteed and will be decided by local border guards.
• You can appeal a denied ETIAS application.
• Approval is usually immediate but can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.