China to Italy tourist visa
Complete Italy Schengen visa requirements, fees, processing times, and approval tips for Chinese citizens. Updated December 2025.
- Visa
- Italy Schengen Visa
- Fee
- €90
- Processing time
- 15 calendar days
- Length of stay
- Up to 90 days
Required documents
- Valid Passport — Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area
- Visa Application Form — Complete the Schengen visa application form available on the Italian consulate or VFS Global website
- Biometric Photographs — Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen specifications
- Travel Medical Insurance — Valid travel insurance covering all Schengen countries for your entire stay
- Flight Reservations — Round-trip flight bookings showing entry and exit from the Schengen Area
- Accommodation Confirmation — Proof of where you will stay during your visit to Italy
- Detailed Travel Itinerary — Day-by-day plan of your activities and movements in Italy and other Schengen countries
- Cover Letter — Personal letter explaining the purpose and details of your trip
- Bank Statements — Recent bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your trip
- Employment Documentation — Evidence of your employment status and income in China
- Household Registration (Hukou) — Copy of your household registration booklet
- Chinese ID Card (Shenfenzheng) — Copy of your Chinese resident identity card
- Ties to Home Country — Documentation proving your intention to return to China after your trip
- Biometrics Enrollment — Fingerprints and photograph captured at the Italy Visa Application Centre
How to apply
- Determine your travel dates and — Determine your travel dates and create detailed itinerary Plan your trip comprehensively, including all cities you’ll visit, accommodation for each night, and planned activities. If visiting multiple Schengen countries, ensure Italy is your main destination (most nights spent) or first point of entry. 3
- Gather all required documents Collect — Gather all required documents Collect your passport, photographs, hukou, ID card, bank statements, employment proof, travel insurance, flight reservations, and accommodation confirmations. Download the specific checklist from your regional Italian consulate or the VFS Global website. 2
- Complete the Schengen visa application — Complete the Schengen visa application form Fill out the application form available on the VFS Global or Italian visa portal (vistoperitalia.esteri.it). 3 Ensure all information matches your supporting documents exactly. Print and sign the form with two signatures.
- Purchase travel insurance Buy Schengen — Purchase travel insurance Buy Schengen travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage valid for all member states and your entire travel period. Major Chinese insurers like Ping An and China Life offer Schengen-compliant policies. 6
- Book visa center appointment Schedule — Book visa center appointment Schedule your appointment at the nearest Italy Visa Application Centre through the VFS Global booking system. 2 Slots fill quickly during peak season (April-August, December), so book at least 3–4 weeks in advance.
- Attend biometrics appointment Arrive 15 — Attend biometrics appointment Arrive 15 minutes early with your original passport, printed application form, appointment confirmation, and all supporting documents. 2 Your fingerprints and photograph will be captured (exempt if provided within last 59 months for a Schengen visa).
Common questions
- How long can I stay in Italy on a Schengen visa?
- The Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This means you can spend a maximum of 90 days across all Schengen countries combined over a rolling 6-month window. You cannot circumvent this by leaving and immediately re-entering.
- Can I visit other European countries with an Italy Schengen visa?
- Yes! A Schengen visa issued by Italy grants you access to all 29 Schengen member states: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
- How long does it take to get an Italy Schengen visa from China?
- Standard processing is 15 calendar days from when your application reaches the Italian consulate. During peak seasons (April-August and December), processing may extend to 30–45 days. Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your travel date to account for potential delays.
- What is the Italy Schengen visa approval rate for Chinese citizens?
- Italy had a 96% approval rate for Chinese applicants in 2024, processing 227,293 applications and granting 218,863 visas. China is the #1 source country for Italy visa applications, making up nearly 20% of all applications.
- Where can I apply for an Italy Schengen visa in China?
- Apply at Italy Visa Application Centres (IVAC) across China. Centers are located in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Jinan, Shenyang, Wuhan, and Xi’an. Book your appointment online through the VFS Global website. Each region has specific jurisdiction based on your residence.
- How much money should I show in my bank account for an Italy Schengen visa?
- Italy recommends showing at least €95 per day of your stay. For a 2-week trip, this would be approximately €1,330 (¥10,400). Your bank statements should show stable income and consistent balance over 3–6 months. Avoid large unexplained deposits before applying.