How to Apply for Italy Tourist Visa in Qatar

For many of us, Italy holds a special place as the birthplace of our favorite pasta dishes and pizzas. It is also renowned for its ancient buildings scattered throughout the country.

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As holders of Philippine passports, we are required to apply for a tourist visa in order to visit Italy. However, due to Italy’s agreement with other European countries, we only need to apply for a Schengen visa. This visa not only allows us to explore Italy but also grants us entry to neighboring countries.

Amalfi Coast

Visiting Italy with a Tourist Visa

If you’re a Philippine passport holder planning to visit Italy, you’ll need to apply for a visa. There are different types of visas available, but for short-term travel, a Schengen visa is required.

The application process can be completed online or through a visa application center, where you can avail yourself of their services.

Requirements

To start your application for a tourist visa, you must prepare these documents:

  • Fully completed visa application form
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • Valid passport with a minimum of 3 months remaining before expiration
  • Travel itinerary: Provide a detailed list of the places you plan to visit, including other Schengen countries. Remember to include your entry and exit dates for Italy. It is advisable to include a flight reservation or, if available, a flight ticket.
  • Return ticket or flight reservation
  • Travel history
  • Letter from the tour organizer (if applicable)
  • Proof of accommodation: Present a hotel or hostel booking confirmation. If available, you may also provide a rental agreement.
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Proof of employment
  • Health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000
  • Additional supporting documents if traveling with minors

Meanwhile, if your purpose of travel to Italy is to visit family and friends, the following requirements should be prepared:

  • Letter of invitation from the host in Italy: The host must be either a citizen or a holder of a residence permit. If the host has a residence permit, a copy of the permit should also be provided.
  • Proof of family relationship: You must provide evidence of your relationship to the host, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or certificate of registered partnership.
  • Cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip

Procedure

Step 1, Book an appointment with the embassy by sending an email to doha.visti@esteri.it

Step 2. Fill out the visa application form. Visit the e-application visa site to access the form. 

Step 3. Prepare the required documents.

Step 4. Submit the application form on your appointed date.

Step 5. Attend the interview.

Step 6. Pay the visa fee.

Step 7. Wait for the visa to be processed.

Step 8. If approved, you will receive a Schengen sticker visa on your passport. If your application is rejected, you will receive a letter of rejection.

Fees

Schengen visa fee for adults                               €80

Schengen visa fee for minors (6-12 years old)    €40

Schengen visa fee for minors under 6 years old   FREE

Validity of the Schengen Visa

The duration of your stay depends on the type of Schengen visa you have been granted, which can be either single, double, or multiple entries. With a short-stay visa, you are permitted to stay in Italy or any other Schengen country for 90 days or less. For other visa types, re-entry is allowed, but the total stay should not exceed 90 days.

Address and Contact Details of the Ambasciate d’Italia a Doha (Embassy of Italy in Doha)

Map of the Italian Embassy in Qatar

Video: Applying for Italy Tourist Visa 

In this informative video, Rex OFW Italy provides a detailed account of his experience applying for a tourist visa. It is important to note that his story is based on the experience of his relatives who applied from the Philippines. However, you can still benefit from his tips on how to handle the visa interview.

Make sure to watch the video until the end to gain additional insights on how to fulfill the requirements for traveling to Italy.

You can watch the full video here:

Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on personal experiences that the OFW shared in the video. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video or on their social media accounts.

How to Get to Italy from Qatar

The travel time from Doha to Rome is slightly over 9 hours, with an additional two-hour layover. Airlines such as Qatar Airways, Pegasus Airlines, and Turkish Airlines offer flights to Rome. The average cost for a direct flight is approximately $800. It is recommended to compare prices among different carriers, as well as consider the date and time of your flight.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Italy

According to the website Statista, Italy has been attracting millions of tourists each year, thanks to its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and stunning landscapes. If you’re still planning your itinerary, consider these suggestions to include in your schedule.

Rome

Known as the “city of love,” Rome is home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. While in Rome, make sure to explore the theaters, Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and the iconic Trevi Fountain.

Milan

Milan is renowned as Italy’s fashion hub, hosting fashion shows twice a year. It is where supermodels, buyers, and designers gather during these events. Additionally, Milan boasts museums and impressive ancient architecture.

Tuscany

Tuscany is a picturesque region that offers various attractions, including the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Or if you want to collect quality souvenirs, you can choose from the numerous craft items that Tuscany has to offer, including wood, wool, leather, marble, and metal. 

Venice

While in Italy, don’t miss the chance to experience an authentic gondola ride in Venice. Travel sites advise against booking through hotels or travel agencies to avoid higher costs. Alternatively, you can opt for a cheaper option or simply enjoy a glimpse of the Grand Canal by taking the traghetto.

Amalfi Coast

If you’re seeking a coastal escape, the Amalfi Coast is an excellent destination. It is recommended to visit during the off-season for a more tranquil experience. The coast holds historical significance, including former imperial residences and standing monasteries. 

A Guide to Italian Culture and Traditions

Embrace the Dolce Vita lifestyle when traveling to Italy. As a tourist, it’s important to understand the culture of the host country to avoid inadvertently offending locals. Here are some tips for your visit:

  • Italians observe long lunch breaks and dine late. Adjust your itinerary accordingly to align with these meal times.
  • Most family-owned shops close between 1 PM and 4 PM on weekdays, reopening from 4 PM to 8 PM.
  • On Sundays, many shops are closed, as it is a time for families to enjoy lunch together.
  • It is advisable to carry cash for purchases. Italians prefer cash payments, and it can save you the hassle of relying on cards. The currency in Italy is the Euro, so ensure you have an adequate amount, especially for your tours.
  • Coffee holds a special place in Italian culture, typically enjoyed at local coffee shops. The default coffee is espresso, but you can specify if you prefer an Americano.
  • While English proficiency varies, particularly among older generations, learning a few phrases can be helpful when communicating with locals. Younger Italians often have a better command of English due to learning it in school.
  • Please note that women may need to cover their bare shoulders before entering certain churches. Carrying a shawl or cardigan will provide convenience in such situations.

Frequently Answered Questions

  • Where else can I visit with my Italian visa? 

In addition to Italy, you can also visit San Marino and Vatican City using your tourist visa. Since these states are located within Italy, your visa remains valid.

  • Is it possible to extend my stay in Italy? 

Yes, it is possible to request an extension for your stay, although it may be challenging to obtain. Extensions are typically granted if you entered the country later than your intended arrival date or if you face potential dangers upon returning home. If you wish to extend your stay, it is advisable to begin the visa extension process at least one week before your current visa expires.

  • Can I convert my tourist visa to a permesso di soggiorno

The permesso di soggiorno is a residence permit that allows for a stay in Italy exceeding 90 days. Once you are in Italy, you have up to 8 days to apply for this permit. However, to apply for the permesso di soggiorno, you must first possess a long-term Italian visa. The application process involves completing a form and paying the applicable fees.

Summary

To visit Italy, Philippine passport holders must apply for a Schengen visa. Ensure you gather all the necessary documents, including your passport, completed application form, and passport photo, among others. Next, schedule an appointment by sending an email to the embassy. On the designated date, visit the embassy to submit all your requirements. If your application is successful, a Schengen sticker visa will be stamped in your passport. In the event of a rejection, you will receive a letter from the embassy explaining the reasons for the decline of your application.

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