Italy Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Albania citizens
Planning a trip to Italy as an Albanian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for your Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fee of €90, processing time of 15 days, and strategies to improve your chances. Your Italy visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states.
Italy Schengen Visa for Albanian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Albania citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet specific validity requirements for Schengen entry
Complete the official Schengen visa application form
Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen requirements
Valid travel insurance covering medical emergencies in all Schengen states
Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay in Italy
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit to Italy
Round-trip flight itinerary showing entry and exit from Schengen area
Documentation proving your current employment and income
Fingerprints and digital photograph taken at visa application centre
Application Process
Albanian citizens must apply for an Italy Schengen visa through VFS Global in Tirana.1 The process involves these key steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
Before booking an appointment, collect all required documents including your passport, completed application form, photos, travel insurance, financial evidence, accommodation proof, and flight itinerary.2
2. Book VFS Appointment
Schedule your appointment through the VFS Global website.1 During peak season (summer months), appointments fill quickly, so book 4-6 weeks in advance.
3. Submit Application
Attend your appointment at VFS Global Tirana with all original documents and copies. Pay the €90 visa fee plus VFS service charge. Provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photo).1
4. Track and Collect
Track your application status online. Once processed, collect your passport from VFS Global or opt for courier delivery. Standard processing takes 15 calendar days.2
Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Adult (12+ years) | €90 |
| Child (6-11 years) | €45 |
| Child (under 6) | Free |
| VFS Service Charge | ~€25-35 |
Fees are non-refundable regardless of the visa decision. Payment accepted in EUR or equivalent in Albanian Lek.1
What You Need to Prove
To obtain your Italy Schengen visa, you must demonstrate:2
Genuine Purpose: Clear and credible reason for visiting Italy, supported by your itinerary and accommodation bookings.
Financial Stability: Sufficient funds to cover all expenses during your stay without working illegally. Budget €50-100 per day.
Intention to Return: Strong ties to Albania that ensure you will return after your visit, such as employment, property, or family.
Valid Insurance: Travel medical insurance meeting Schengen requirements with minimum €30,000 coverage.
Processing Times
| Service | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Standard Processing | 15 calendar days |
| Peak Season | Up to 30 days |
| Complex Cases | Up to 45 days |
Apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel, and up to 6 months in advance.2 Decisions cannot be expedited for tourism applications.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your Schengen visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Check carefully:
- Validity dates: Ensure they cover your travel dates
- Number of entries: Single, double, or multiple
- Duration of stay: Maximum days allowed (up to 90)
At Italian border control, you may be asked to show your return ticket, accommodation confirmation, travel insurance, and proof of funds.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific concerns raised
- Appeal the decision within the timeframe specified (usually 15-30 days)
- Request reconsideration if you believe an error was made
A refusal does not prevent future applications, but you must address the issues that caused the refusal. Be honest about previous refusals in future applications.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not demonstrate adequate funds or show suspicious patterns such as large deposits close to application.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent balance. Demonstrate regular income matching your employment letter. Budget approximately €50-100 per day of stay.
Weak Ties to Albania
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Albania, such as employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing stable job, property documents, evidence of family ties, or ongoing business commitments in Albania.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or providing documents that do not meet specifications.
How to avoid: Use the official checklist from VFS Global. Ensure all documents are current, properly translated if needed, and meet format requirements.
Inadequate Travel Insurance
Insurance policy does not meet minimum coverage requirements or does not cover all Schengen states.
How to avoid: Purchase Schengen-specific travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage valid in all 29 member states.
Inconsistent Information
Information provided in application does not match supporting documents or previous applications.
How to avoid: Double-check all dates, addresses, and employment details match across all documents. Be honest about travel history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Albanian citizens need a visa to visit Italy?
Yes, Albanian citizens require a Schengen visa to visit Italy for tourism, business, or family visits. The visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
How long does it take to get an Italy visa from Albania?
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days from your application submission. During peak travel seasons, processing may take up to 30-45 days. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date.
What is the Italy Schengen visa fee for Albanians in 2025?
The standard visa fee is €90 for adults. Children aged 6-11 pay €45, and children under 6 are exempt from fees. Additional VFS service charges apply.
Can I visit other European countries with an Italy Schengen visa?
Yes, your Italy Schengen visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states including France, Germany, Spain, and others. However, Italy must be your main destination or first point of entry.
How much bank balance do I need for an Italy visa?
While there is no fixed minimum, you should demonstrate approximately €50-100 per day of your planned stay. A stable balance with regular income over 3-6 months is more important than a single large amount.
What is the approval rate for Italy visas from Albania?
Italy has one of the higher Schengen visa approval rates, approximately 85% for Albanian applicants. Proper documentation and strong ties to Albania significantly improve your chances.