Planning to visit Italy from Saudi Arabia as a Pakistani citizen? Whether it’s for tourism, family visits, or business purposes, getting an Italy visit visa from Saudi Arabia for Pakistani nationals requires proper documentation and following the Schengen visa rules. This guide will help you understand the requirements, application process, costs, and tips to increase your chances of approval, making your travel smooth and hassle-free.
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Italy is part of the Schengen Area, which means a single Schengen visa allows you to travel across 27 European countries, including France, Spain, and Germany. For Pakistanis living in Saudi Arabia, applying for an Italy visit visa is a common choice due to tourism, family reunions, and business trips.
Why Choose Italy?
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Explore historic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
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Experience Venice’s gondolas and Rome’s rich cultural heritage.
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Shop from luxury brands in Milan.
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Visit family and friends or attend special events.
Requirements for an Italy Visit Visa from Saudi Arabia for Pakistani Citizens
Before applying, make sure you prepare all the required documents.
The essential document checklist:
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Valid Pakistani Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area and have at least two blank pages. Include old passports if any.
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Saudi Residence Permit (Iqama): This is critical. Your Iqama must be valid for at least three months after you return from your trip. A soon-to-expire Iqama is a common reason for rejection.
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Completed Visa Application Form: Filled out online via the Italy Visa Application Portal and then printed and signed.
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Recent Photographs: Two passport-sized photos with a white background, meeting Schengen specifications.
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Flight Reservation: A confirmed round-trip flight itinerary (avoid buying tickets until the visa is granted).
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Hotel Bookings: Proof of accommodation for every night of your stay in Italy and the entire Schengen Area.
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Proof of Financial Means:
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Last 3-6 months of Saudi bank statements showing regular salary credits and healthy balances.
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Salary certificate or recent pay slips.
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Travel Health Insurance: A policy from a reputable company covering the entire Schengen Area with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
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Cover Letter: A well-drafted letter explaining your purpose of visit, a detailed itinerary, and your intention to return to KSA (mentioning your job and family ties).
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Essential Documents for Your Italy Visit Visa Application
Preparing the right documents is the most critical part of your Italy visa from Saudi Arabia for Pakistani nationals. A single missing or incorrect document can lead to rejection. Be thorough and ensure all paperwork is in English or Italian.
General Documents for Every Applicant
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be no older than 10 years, have at least two blank pages, and be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.
- Schengen Visa Application Form: A completed and signed application form.
- Passport Photos: Two recent (taken within the last six months) passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Proof of Legal Residency: A copy of your valid Saudi Arabian iqama. It must be valid for at least three months after your return.
- Travel Itinerary and Reservations: Confirmed flight reservations (round-trip) and a detailed day-by-day plan of your trip. Do not book non-refundable tickets until your visa is approved.
- Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel bookings for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area. If you’re staying with family or friends, you’ll need an official invitation letter (“Dichiarazione di Ospitalità”) from your host in Italy.
Financial and Employment Documents
- Proof of Financial Means: A bank statement for the last three to six months, stamped and signed by the bank. This proves you have sufficient funds to cover your trip. A minimum balance of around 15,000 SAR or more is generally recommended.
- Employment Letter (NOC): An original, recent employment letter from your Saudi employer, addressed to the Italian Embassy or Consulate. This letter should state your position, start date, salary, purpose of travel, and confirmation of your leave. It must be attested by the Chamber of Commerce.
- Proof of Salary: Recent payslips, usually for the last three months.
- For Business Owners: If you own a business, provide a copy of your valid trade license with an official visa request letter on your company letterhead.
Additional Requirements
- Travel Medical Insurance: A mandatory requirement. The insurance must be valid for the entire Schengen Area, cover the full duration of your trip, and have a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Minors: For applicants under 18, a notarized parental consent letter is required if they are traveling alone or with only one parent. Their birth certificate and copies of their parents’ passports must also be provided.
- Saudi Exit/Re-Entry Visa: Non-Saudi nationals must have a valid re-entry visa for Saudi Arabia that is valid beyond their intended return date.
Application Process
Prepare Your Documents
Gather all the documents from the checklist above. Ensure everything is in order. Incomplete applications are a major cause of delays or rejections.
Complete the Online Form
Access the official Italy Visa Application Portal and fill out the national visa application form digitally. Print it out and sign it.
Book an Appointment
Schedule your appointment online through the VFS Global Italy – Saudi Arabia website. Choose the center (Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam) based on your jurisdiction.
Attend the Appointment
Visit the VFS Global center with all your original documents, copies, and the printed appointment letter. Submit your application, provide biometrics (fingerprints), and pay the visa fee.
Pay the Visa Fee
The standard Schengen visa fee for adults is €80 (payable in SAR). There may be an additional service charge from VFS Global.
Track and Collect Your Passport
Use the tracking number provided to follow your application online. Once processed, you can collect your passport in person or via courier.
Processing Time and Important Tips
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Processing Time: The standard processing time is 15 calendar days, but for Pakistani nationals, it can often take 30-45 days due to additional checks. Apply at least 2-3 months before your planned trip.
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Be Truthful: Never provide fake documents or misleading information. It will lead to a definite ban.
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Show Strong Ties: Your Iqama and job are your strongest assets. Use your employer’s NOC and your bank statements to prove you have a stable life to return to in Saudi Arabia.
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Clear Itinerary: Have a logical and clear travel plan. Avoid last-minute changes.
Saudi to Italy Visa Guide | Requirements, Application & Tips
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FAQs:
How much is the fee for an Italy visit visa from Saudi Arabia for a Pakistani passport holder?
A1. The standard Schengen visa fee is €80 for adults. Additionally, you will have to pay a VFS Global service fee of approximately SAR 101.81. The exact amount in SAR is subject to the current exchange rate. These fees are non-refundable.
How long is the processing time for an Italy visa from Saudi Arabia?
A2. The typical processing time is around 15 working days. However, it can take up to 45 days, especially during busy seasons. It’s best to apply at least 4-6 weeks before your planned trip.
Can I travel to other Schengen countries with an Italian visa?
A3. Yes, an Italian Schengen visa allows you to travel to all 27 Schengen member countries. However, Italy must be your main destination, either by being your first point of entry or the country where you will stay the longest.
Is an interview mandatory for an Italy visa application?
A4. Generally, an interview is not a mandatory part of the process, but visa officers may request one if they require further clarification on your application. For first-time Schengen visa applicants, biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are a mandatory part of the application process.
Do I need to book an actual flight ticket before applying for the visa?
A5. No, it is highly recommended to submit a flight reservation or a flight itinerary instead of a confirmed ticket. The embassy advises against booking non-refundable tickets until your visa is approved.
Is it possible to apply for an Italy visa from Saudi Arabia as a Pakistani if my Iqama is about to expire?
A6. Your iqama must be valid for at least three months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area. If it is expiring soon, you should renew it before applying for the visa.
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Conclusion:
Obtaining an Italy visit visa from Saudi Arabia for Pakistani nationals is a well-defined process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. By preparing your documents meticulously and following the official application steps, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful application. Italy’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine await you. Start your preparation today and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the heart of Europe.
Call-to-Action (CTA): Ready to begin your visa journey? Visit the official VFS Global website for Italy in Saudi Arabia to schedule your appointment and download the application form!

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