“Very special persons” Visas

Feb 09, 2021

Foreign nationals who need to travel to Italy for reasons related to their political, governmental or public interest functions can obtain a mission visa (“visto per missione”). This visa can be applied for by:

• Government officers, employees of Public administration/public bodies or Employees of International organisations who are sent to Italy to perform their duties
• private citizens whose importance and purpose of stay may be considered of public interest for relations between the home country and Italy

In particular, individuals who can be eligible  for a Mission visa are:

• Officials employed by administrations of foreign countries on a work mission in Italy;
• Staff of the international organizations with which Headquarters Agreements are in force;
• Diplomatic personnel with no formal accreditation;
• Civilian personnel destined to serve at NATO military bases (military personnel are visa-free);
• Personalities and foreigners who hold high civil and religious offices;
• Personalities and members of delegations officially invited by the Italian Government;
• Participants in events and meetings envisaged by bilateral or multilateral agreements to which Italy is a contracting party;

The mission visa can be also issued to foreign correspondents – further to the issuance of a special clearance from the Ministry of Foreign affairs, Press service – and to close family members of the main applicant.

The application of the visa is filed directly with the Italian Consulate of residency. The visa can be issued for short stays (up to 90 days) or for longer stays. In case of intended stay of more than 90 days, the visa holder must apply for a residence permit (Permesso di soggiorno) within 8 working days of arrival, by submitting the application through an authorised post office.

Giuditta Petreni

Giuditta Petreni has over 10 years of experience in assisting companies and business investors with relocation of managers and staff to Italy. Giuditta has extensive experience advising corporate and private clients on a full range of Italian immigration categories. She is fluent in Italian and English.

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