Starting on January 11, 2025, candidates applying for long-term Schengen visas to Italy—such as those for employment and study—will need to submit to fingerprint collection.

This requirement is an extension of an existing rule for short-term visa applicants. Candidates must visit the nearest Italian embassy to provide their biometrics, specifically fingerprints, to complete their application process.

This new regulation, enacted following the Decree-Law 145/2024, necessitates that applicants appear in person to submit their visa applications, raising concerns about potential delays in the application process due to lengthy waiting times already reported at Italian consulates, especially in high-application countries.

This measure is part of Italy’s efforts to enhance security after years of reported criminal infiltrations. While it adds an extra layer of security, it also imposes additional logistical challenges for applicants who must manage travel to their nearest consulate and book appointments for data collection.

The Italian government anticipates that these changes will bolster their screening procedures in light of increasing security needs.