Digital Visas to Italy: What Will Change with the e-Visa Transition in 2026

Italy is launching a large-scale reform of its visa system, transitioning to digital visas (e-visas) from the year 2026. This initiative is being implemented within the framework of the Schengen Area's digitalisation strategy and is directed towards the facilitation of entry, the enhancement of security, and the alleviation of the burden upon consulates.

The implementation of electronic visas shall fundamentally alter the customary procedure for the submission of documents. In lieu of paper application forms and queues, applicants shall be able to complete the majority of stages online. The year 2026 shall serve as the point of departure: the launch of a unified platform will permit Italian consulates to gradually dispense with visa stickers in passports.

Timeframes for Implementation and the Transitional Period

The commencement of the updated system is scheduled for the second quarter of 2026 (approximately from June). Therewith, the transition shall be gradual: during the initial stage, the digital platform shall operate in parallel with the classical system of visa stickers, in order to ensure a comfortable adaptation for applicants and control authorities alike.

The new system shall encompass all primary categories of visas — both short-term Schengen visas (Type C) and long-term national visas (Type D), including journeys undertaken for the purposes of tourism, employment, and education.

For applicants, this signifies a transition to a remote format: application forms, the uploading of documents (reservations, insurance, financial guarantees), and the payment of fees shall be accessible via a unified digital portal. This shall simplify the process and alleviate the burden upon consulates, particularly during peak seasons.

The Abolition of Stickers and the New Border Control

One of the pivotal changes shall be the gradual abolition of visa stickers. Data concerning the visa shall be stored within a centralised EU database (VIS — Visa Information System), accessible to consulates, airlines, and border control services. This mitigates the risks of forgery and expedites verification at the border.

In parallel, the Entry/Exit System (EES) is being implemented. At airports, including Fiumicino and Malpensa, biometric terminals are already in operation, automatically recording border crossings and gradually replacing stamps in passports.

What Shall Change for Tourists and Expatriates

The transition to a digital format shall significantly simplify the process of obtaining a visa and render it more convenient for users:

• The remote submission of applications and uploading of documents via a unified portal.
• The absence of the necessity to leave one's passport at the consulate.
• A reduction in the risks of loss or damage to documents.
• The online payment of fees with instantaneous confirmation.

In the prospective future, the integration of visas with digital wallets is possible, which shall allow for the presentation of a QR code from a smartphone upon boarding or at the border. This is particularly convenient for frequent travellers and expatriates.

Furthermore, applicants shall be able to track the status of their visa in real time via a personal account and receive notifications regarding the decision or the necessity of supplementary documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it necessary to take one's passport to the visa centre in 2026?

   

  If biometrics remain valid (less than 59 months old), the submission shall be entirely online. A personal visit shall be requisite solely for the initial submission of data.

• Shall stamps be affixed to passports?

   

  With the implementation of the EES system, stamps are being gradually abolished; all data are recorded within an electronic database.

• How does one confirm the possession of a visa?

   

  The visa is linked to the passport and is verified automatically. It is recommended to possess a digital or printed copy of the confirmation.

• Shall the cost of the visa change?

   

  The consular fee remains unchanged, but ancillary expenses may decrease owing to the online process.

• Shall this pertain to Type D visas?

   

  Yes, digitalisation shall encompass both Schengen visas and long-term national visas.