Planning a trip to Italy? Whether you’re exploring Rome’s ancient ruins, relaxing along the Amalfi Coast, or savoring authentic Italian cuisine, the first step is securing your Italy Tourist Visa. If you’re based in Kenya, here’s everything you need to know to make the visa application process as smooth as possible.
How to Apply for Italy Visit Visa in Kenya: A Complete Guide
Visa Fees
The visa fee varies based on your age and service charges. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Adults (12+ years): €90 (~Ksh 13,000)
- Children (6-11 years): €45 (~Ksh 6,500)
- VFS Service Fee: Ksh 2,885 (Payable via M-Pesa)
Required Documents
To apply for an Italy tourist visa, you’ll need to gather several documents to support your application. Ensure that all documents are original, certified, and up-to-date. Here’s the full list:
1. Passport
Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months after your intended stay in Italy. Be sure to also provide copies of your biometric page and any previous visas (Schengen, USA, UK) for reference.
2. Photographs
You’ll need to submit one biometric color photo (45mm x 35mm), taken within the last 6 months.
3. Kenyan ID/Residence Permit
Include a copy of your Kenyan ID or a valid residence permit if you’re a foreign resident.
4. Bank Statements
Submit original bank statements for the last 3 months on official bank letterhead, with the stamp of the bank.
5. Employment Proof
If employed, provide an employment letter (dated within the last 30 days) detailing your position, salary, and leave approval. You will also need to provide pay slips for the last 3 months.
6. For Business Owners
If you own a business, submit the following:
- Company documents: PIN, Certificate of Incorporation, Trading License, and CR12.
- Company bank statements for the last 3 months.
7. Sponsorship (if applicable)
If a sponsor is supporting your trip, provide:
- A declaration of financial responsibility from your sponsor.
- Your sponsor’s Italian bank statements (last 3 months) and proof of employment.
8. For Retired Individuals
If you are retired, you will need to provide pension payment proof for the last 3 months.
9. Flight Reservation
You must provide a round-trip flight booking with your name and travel details clearly shown.
10. Accommodation Proof
This can either be:
- Hotel bookings showing the address of your accommodation.
- An invitation letter from a host in Italy, along with the Declaration of Private Accommodation form.
11. Travel Insurance
Submit proof of travel insurance with coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies.
Processing Time
Typically, it takes 15 calendar days for the Italian Embassy to process your visa after they’ve received all the necessary documents.
Important Tips for a Smooth Application
- Visa Validity: Your visa validity will depend on your travel plans. Ensure the duration of the visa matches your travel itinerary.
- Document Authenticity: Double-check that all your documents are original, properly certified, and up-to-date to avoid any delays or complications.
Conclusion
Applying for an Italy Tourist Visa from Kenya doesn’t have to be a hassle if you stay organized and prepare your documents in advance. Be sure to follow all requirements closely, and allow enough time for processing. Soon, you could be enjoying all that Italy has to offer.
We are a Visa & Immigration Consulting Company offering visa assistance services at a standardized, non-refundable fee. Let us handle the complexities of your visa application so you can focus on your travel plans