After providing visa guidance for several countries across the globe to countries like Kazakhstan, Tanzania, Vietnam or Tunisia, Jamaica or Uzbekistan and innumerable others, we’ve recently received a wave of questions from Armenian citizens planning to travel to Italy. Whether for a short getaway, a business trip, or a family visit, more and more travelers from Armenia are setting their sights on Italy not just as a destination, but as their entry point to the broader Schengen Zone.
Many are navigating this process for the first time, and understandably, the visa requirements can feel confusing. Between shifting rules, unclear timelines, and inconsistent advice from online forums, applicants often find themselves second-guessing what they need to submit or when to start. And for those on a tight schedule, even minor mistakes in documentation can lead to significant delays.
Italy remains a top draw for travelers from Armenia for good reason. From the historic ruins of Rome to the canals of Venice and the artistic heart of Florence, it offers a spectrum of culture and experience that few countries can match. But before any of that becomes reality, Armenian citizens must clear one administrative hurdle: the Italian Schengen visa from Armenia.
This visa allows up to 90 days of travel within a 180-day period across all 26 Schengen countries, including France, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, and of course, Italy itself. Whether your visit is for leisure, professional purposes, study, or to see family, this visa is your legal gateway to Europe.
If you’re applying from Armenia, you won’t be dealing with the embassy directly. Instead, you’ll go through TLS Contact, the official Italian visa application center in Yerevan. This is where you’ll schedule your appointment, submit your documents, and provide your biometric data.
We understand that gathering the right documents, booking a timely appointment, and understanding what the consulate is actually looking for can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly why we’ve created this guide, to give Armenian applicants a clear, step-by-step overview of what’s required, what to expect, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Before we delve into the specifics of the application process, it’s important to address a few common questions and misunderstandings that many Armenian travelers encounter when applying for an Italian Schengen visa. These misconceptions often lead to incomplete applications, appointment delays, or even rejections that could have been avoided with proper preparation.
One frequent point of confusion involves timing—many applicants assume they can submit their application a week or two before departure. In reality, applications should be lodged at least 15 days before travel, but ideally 4 to 6 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and the winter holidays. TLS Contact appointment slots tend to fill quickly, and last-minute bookings can be difficult to secure.
Another widespread assumption is that a flight ticket must be purchased before the visa is granted. This is not the case. In fact, providing a reservation—not a paid ticket—is sufficient and safer, as visas are not guaranteed, and non-refundable bookings may result in financial loss.
Applicants also commonly underestimate the importance of financial documentation. The Italian authorities want to see not only that you have sufficient funds to support your stay, but that your financial activity is stable, consistent, and clearly traceable. Sudden deposits, unbalanced statements, or missing explanations can raise red flags during the evaluation.
Lastly, many are unsure about who needs to provide biometric data and how often. The Schengen system requires fingerprinting and a photo unless valid biometrics have been recorded in the last 59 months. If you’re a returning traveler, it’s worth checking whether your previous data is still valid before booking a new appointment.
By clarifying these key points early, applicants from Armenia can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smoother, more efficient visa experience. With the basics understood, we can now move into the step-by-step breakdown of the Italian Schengen visa application process.
Applicant Statistics of Italian Schengen Visa from Armenia
Statistics on applications for Italian Schengen Visa from Armenia reveal a significant volume of submissions to the Italian Consulate. In 2023, nearly 20,380 individuals in Armenia applied for Italian visas, and over 85% of these applications were approved.
| Years | Schengen State | Country | Consulate | Number of Visa Applications | Visas Issued | Visas Denied | Not issued rate for uniform visas |
| 2022 | Italy | Armenia | Yerevan | 12,465 | 10,337 | 2,128 | 17.10% |
| 2021 | Italy | Armenia | Yerevan | 1,915 | 1,594 | 321 | 16.76% |
| 2020 | Italy | Armenia | Yerevan | 3,014 | 2,681 | 333 | 11.05% |
Italian Schengen Visa for Armenian Citizens: Your Gateway to Europe
For citizens of Armenia planning to explore Italy’s cultural landmarks, artistic heritage, and dynamic urban life, the Italian Schengen visa serves as the crucial gateway. This short-stay visa permits travel not only throughout Italy but across 25 other countries within the Schengen Zone, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
All visa applications from Armenia are processed through TLS Contact, the official visa service provider for the Embassy of Italy. Their Yerevan center manages document intake, biometric collection, and passport return. Whether your trip is for leisure, professional commitments, short-term study, or visiting family and friends, a properly submitted visa application is your formal entry point to an expansive European journey.
Understanding Italian Visa Categories for Armenian Citizens
Italian visas are categorized based on the purpose and duration of your stay. Broadly, these are divided into Short-Stay Visas (Schengen Visas) and National Long-Stay Visas (D-type Visas). Selecting the correct visa type is essential to ensure your application meets legal and procedural requirements.
Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Visa – Type C)
A Schengen visa allows Armenian citizens to travel within the Schengen Zone, including Italy, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. These visas are typically issued for tourism, business, short-term study, or visiting family and friends. The visa does not permit employment and is strictly for temporary visits.
Common short-stay categories include:
Tourism Visit (under 90 days)
For individuals wishing to explore Italy’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Private Visit – Family or Friends (under 90 days)
For those visiting relatives or friends legally residing in Italy. Requires an invitation letter and proof of relationship or accommodation.
Business Purpose (under 90 days)
For attending meetings, negotiations, trade fairs, or professional events. Applicants must provide a business invitation and a recent extract from the Italian State Register (Visura Camerale), dated within the last 6 months.
Short-Term Study (under 90 days)
For educational programs, language courses, or academic workshops that do not exceed 90 days in duration.
- Medical Care
For travelers seeking short-term medical treatment in Italian healthcare facilities. Requires confirmation from the medical institution and proof of funds.
- Cultural or Sports Events (under 90 days)
For participants in competitions, performances, or exhibitions. Requires official invitations and event documentation.
- Official Missions or Visits
For government officials, diplomatic staff, or those on official assignments to Italy.
- Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Italy en route to a third country. Typically required when changing airports or staying in the international transit area for more than a few hours.
Long-Stay Visa (National Visa – Type D)
A D-type visa, also known as a National Visa, allows the holder to reside in Italy for more than 90 days for specific, legally recognized purposes. This visa is also a prerequisite for obtaining a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) after arrival in Italy.
Main categories of long-stay visas include:
- Study Visa (over 90 days)
For students admitted to academic programs, universities, or research institutions in Italy. Requires proof of enrollment, sufficient financial means, and accommodation.
- Family Reasons
For family reunification with immediate relatives who are Italian citizens or legal residents. Requires legal proof of relationship and housing arrangements.
- Subordinate Work (Employment)
For individuals with an approved job offer from an Italian employer. Applicants must provide a signed employment contract and labor authorization (nulla osta).
- Self-Employment
- For entrepreneurs, freelancers, or professionals intending to conduct business in Italy. Requires detailed business plans, financial records, and registration with Italian authorities.
- Elective Residency
For financially self-sufficient individuals (often retirees) who wish to reside in Italy without engaging in employment. Applicants must demonstrate steady, independent income and long-term accommodation.
- Digital Nomads and Remote Workers (subject to legal implementation)
For remote professionals working for non-Italian companies who wish to live in Italy while maintaining foreign employment. Specific requirements and visa pathways may vary as Italy formalizes this category.
- Re-Entry Visa (over 90 days)
Issued to individuals who previously held a residence permit in Italy and need to re-enter the country after temporary absence. Requires valid justification and supporting documents.
Each visa type has its own eligibility criteria, required documentation, and processing times. Applicants are advised to select the correct visa category according to their travel purpose and to verify current requirements through TLS Contact or the official website of the Italian Embassy in Armenia.
Italian Schengen Visa Application Process for Armenian Citizens via TLScontact
Applying for an Italian Schengen visa from Armenia involves several clearly defined steps. Each phase of the process requires careful preparation and personal involvement. Below is a detailed breakdown to help ensure your application is submitted correctly and without unnecessary delays.
Step 1: Define the Purpose of Your Trip
Before anything else, determine the exact reason for your travel to Italy. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, study, family, or medical treatment, your visa category will depend on this purpose. Each visa type has a specific list of required documents, so it is crucial that you select the correct travel purpose to avoid complications during processing.
Refer to the official documentation checklist based on your chosen category and begin compiling the necessary materials accordingly. Choosing the wrong category may result in a rejection or require you to restart the process.
Step 2: Create Your TLScontact Account
To begin the Italian Schengen visa from Armenia application process, you must register on the TLScontact Armenia platform. You will need to provide a valid email address and secure password to create an account. This account will allow you to track your application, receive updates, and manage your appointment.
Make sure you use an active email address, as TLScontact and the Embassy of Italy may send important notifications related to your application status.
Step 3: Input Personal Information
Once your account is created, the system will guide you to enter your personal details, including full name, date of birth, passport information, and contact details. If you are applying as part of a group (e.g., family or business delegation), be sure to indicate the names of your travel companions within your application.
Accurate data entry is essential. Mistakes in names, passport numbers, or contact information may lead to delays or processing errors.
Step 4: Book Your Appointment
After entering your information, proceed to book an appointment at the TLScontact Visa Application Centre in Yerevan. Choose a date and time that suits your schedule and print your appointment confirmation, as it must be presented upon arrival.
Visa files for Italian Schengen visa from Armenia are submitted to the Italian Embassy the next working day following your appointment. The standard processing time is 10 working days, counted from that next working day. If you apply within fewer than 10 days of your intended departure, you will be asked to sign a Red Reference (warning notice) acknowledging that your visa may not be ready in time.
Step 5: Prepare Your Application File
Before your appointment, print and complete the Italian Schengen visa from Armenia application form in either English or Italian, using block capital letters. The form must be signed in person by the applicant.
Additional required materials include:
- A valid passport (with required validity and blank pages)
- Travel insurance that complies fully with Schengen requirements (€30,000 coverage minimum)
- Flight and accommodation reservations
- Proof of financial means
- Supporting documents based on your visa category
Incomplete applications may be refused at the submission desk, so check everything carefully in advance.
Step 6: Pay the Visa and Service Fees
Visa applicants are required to pay two separate fees during the application process:
- The Schengen Visa Fee – This is the official visa charge set by the Italian government. The amount depends on the applicant’s age and visa type. Children under the age of 6 are typically exempt.
- TLScontact Service Fee – In addition to the visa fee, a service charge is collected by TLScontact for handling administrative support and document collection. This fee must be paid at the Visa Application Centre on the day of your appointment unless otherwise specified.
- Short-Stay Visa (C Type): AMD 16,100
- Long-Stay Visa (D Type): AMD 10,000
- Declaration of Value Service (if applicable): AMD 3,100
All fees must be paid in Armenian drams at the time of submission. Payment is made directly at the center, and a receipt will be issued—this must be retained, as it may be required later for passport collection or for inquiries about your application.
Step 7: Submit Your Application in Person
On the day of your appointment, arrive on time to at the TLScontact center with:
- Your appointment confirmation
- Completed and signed application form
- All supporting documents
An agent will verify your documents for applying for Italian Schengen visa from Armenia and collect your biometric data (fingerprints and digital photo) if you are 12 years of age or older.
Presence is mandatory for all applicants, including minors. Children must be accompanied by both parents, or by a legal guardian if one or both parents are unavailable. The application form for minors must be signed by both parents at the center in front of a TLScontact representative, regardless of whether a third party is accompanying the child.
If one parent resides outside Armenia, they must provide notarized consent, either through the Embassy of Italy abroad or via apostilled authorization from the country of residence. This document must be translated into English or Italian and cannot be more than 30 days old.
Step 8: Collect Your Passport
Once your visa application has been processed, you will receive an email notification inviting you to collect your passport from the TLScontact center.
To retrieve your passport, bring:
- Your original ID
- A copy of your ID
- Your TLScontact checklist
If you wish to authorize a close relative to collect your passport on your behalf, they must present:
- A signed authorization letter from you
- A copy of your ID
- Their own ID
- Document proving your family relationship (e.g., birth or marriage certificate)
If you have opted for the Express Courier Return Service, your passport will be delivered to the address you specified at the time of your application.
Essential Documents for Italian Schengen Visa from Armenia Applicants
Checklist of Required Documents for a Tourism Visa (Stay Less Than 90 Days) can be downloaded from the official TLScontact website.
Important: All documents must be translated into English or Italian and printed on A4-sized paper. Passport copies and supporting materials must follow this format. Only complete applications will be accepted.
1. Visa Application Form
- Schengen Visa Application Form, fully completed in English or Italian.
- Must be dated and signed in person by the applicant.
- For minors, the form must be signed by both parents or the legal guardian.
2. Passport
- Original passport with at least two blank pages, issued within the last 10 years, and valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
- Copies of all pages containing visas and entry/exit stamps.
- Additional copy of the passport’s main page for return logistics.
3. Photographs
- Two recent passport-size photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm).
- Photos must meet Schengen biometric standards.
4. Travel Medical Insurance
- Must meet Schengen requirements, covering emergency medical expenses and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Coverage must be valid throughout the entire duration of your stay and for all Schengen countries.
5. Travel Itinerary
- A round-trip airline reservation or travel confirmation showing entry and exit dates.
6. Proof of Accommodation
- Confirmed hotel booking or other lodging arrangements, including:
- Address
- Duration of stay
- Total cost (if available)
- If traveling through multiple Schengen countries, proof of accommodation for each country must be submitted.
7. Proof of Financial Means and Socio-Economic Ties in Armenia
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources and strong ties to Armenia. Documents may include:
- A recent letter from the employer (issued within the past month) stating:
- Position
- Salary
- Duration of employment
- Leave approval
- A bank statement (last 6 months) showing account activity.
- Reference letters from banks are not accepted.
- The statement must be in English or Italian.
- Proof of assets or property (e.g., house, land, vehicle) with official documents translated into English or Italian.
- If applicable, include:
- Birth certificate (with translation) if sponsored by a family member.
- Marriage certificate (with translation) if traveling with or sponsored by a spouse.
- Pension certificate (if retired), original and translated copy.
- Death certificate of family member, if relevant.
- Business registration certificate (for self-employed individuals), translated copy.
- Private entrepreneur registration from the state register, translated copy.
8. Proof of Legal Stay in Armenia (for Non-Armenian Nationals)
- Submit a residency permit or equivalent document valid for at least three months after the planned departure from the Schengen Area.
9. Documentation for Minors (If Applicable)
- Birth certificate (original and copy), translated.
- Parents’ marriage certificate (original and copy), translated.
- Parental consent:
- Required if the minor travels alone or with only one parent.
- Must specify the accompanying adult’s full name, passport number, and visa details.
- Accompanied by a copy of the accompanying adult’s passport, valid visa, and travel and accommodation bookings.
- Consent must be:
- No older than 30 days
- Translated into English or Italian
- Notarized
- The minor’s visa application form must be signed in person by both parents at TLScontact, even if the minor is accompanied by a third party.
- If one parent is abroad:
- That parent must visit the Embassy of Italy in their country of residence to issue an official authorization.
- Alternatively, the parent may issue and apostille the authorization abroad and send it to Armenia.
Ensure that all documentation is accurate, translated, and properly formatted to avoid delays or rejection. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
TLScontact Contact Information
Yerevan Visa Application Centre
4/50 Vardanants St, Yerevan 0010, Armenia
You can contact on the following number from Monday to Friday:
- +374 60 540 029: from 10:00 to 13:30 and from 14:00 to 16:00.
- Please have your TLScontact reference number or passport number ready prior to speaking with one of our representatives. This can be found on your appointment booking confirmation.
