Italy has announced stricter documentation requirements for Schengen tourist visa applications starting April 2026. Applicants must now provide detailed travel itineraries with confirmed hotel bookings and return tickets before submitting their applications.
New Documentation Standards
The Italian consular network has introduced a standardized documentation checklist that all applicants must follow. Financial proof requirements have been raised to a minimum of €70 per day of planned stay, up from €50. Bank statements must cover the previous six months rather than three.
Travel insurance minimums have also been increased to €50,000 coverage, with specific requirements for COVID-19 and emergency repatriation. The policy must be valid for all Schengen states, not just Italy.
Processing Changes
Applications must now be submitted at least 45 days before the planned travel date, compared to the previous 15-day minimum. This change aims to reduce last-minute applications that often result in incomplete documentation and higher rejection rates.
Despite the stricter requirements, Italian authorities emphasize that approval rates for well-prepared applications remain above 90%. The changes target fraudulent applications while maintaining accessibility for genuine tourists.