TL;DR
To get an Italy Schengen visa from the UK you apply through VFS Global (London, Manchester or Edinburgh): complete the application, book a VFS appointment, and attend to give biometrics and submit. Italy is a high-demand summer destination — book early.
| Italy Schengen visa (from the UK) | 2026 |
|---|---|
| UK visa application centre | VFS Global |
| Application cities | London, Manchester, Edinburgh |
| Visa fee (adult) | €90 |
| Standard processing | 15 calendar days (up to 45) |
| Official portal | Italy visa info ↗ |
How to apply
- Complete the Italy visa application via the official Italy visa portal.
- Create a VFS Global account and book an appointment in London, Manchester or Edinburgh.
- Prepare your documents — see the Schengen document checklist.
- Attend to give biometrics and submit.
- Wait — standard processing is 15 calendar days, sometimes longer.
When to apply to Italy
Apply to Italy only if it's your main destination (the most nights) or your first entry on an evenly-split trip — see which country to apply to. Italy's appeal as a summer destination means VFS appointments fill quickly; check all three UK cities and book early (see appointments).
What you'll need
The standard Schengen documents: passport, application, photo, proof of UK residence, travel and accommodation bookings, itinerary, bank statements, €30,000+ insurance, and strong evidence you'll return to the UK — the biggest single factor, and the main reason applications are refused.
Assemble it cleanly
- Checklist generator — your tailored list
- Bundler and Compressor — assemble and size your file
Want a second pair of eyes before your VFS appointment? See the done-for-you Schengen service. For the overview, see the Schengen visa from the UK hub.
Sources
Common questions
- 01
How do I apply for an Italy Schengen visa from the UK?
Italy's UK visa applications are handled by VFS Global. You complete the application, create a VFS account, book an appointment in London, Manchester or Edinburgh, and attend to give biometrics and submit your documents. You must legally reside in the UK to apply here.
- 02
Who handles Italy visa applications in the UK?
VFS Global is the official service provider for Italian Schengen visas in the UK. The Italian consulate makes the decision; VFS Global runs the application centre and collects biometrics.
- 03
How much is an Italy Schengen visa from the UK?
€90 for adults, €45 for children 6–12, free under 6 — identical to every Schengen country. VFS Global adds its own service fee, and you must have travel insurance with at least €30,000 of cover.
- 04
How long does an Italy Schengen visa take from the UK?
Standard processing is 15 calendar days from your appointment, occasionally up to 45. Italy is a popular summer destination, so apply early and secure your VFS appointment well ahead of travel.
- 05
Should I apply to Italy if I'm visiting more than one country?
Only if Italy is your main destination (most nights), or your first entry point if your time is evenly split. Applying to Italy when you'll spend most of the trip elsewhere risks refusal.
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