Italy Imposes Mandatory Biometrics for Every Visa Application – Stricter Rule Takes Effect July 20
- Xavi
- Jul 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 20
ROME — July 20, 2026 — Starting July 20, 2026, a unique and stricter rule took effect for travelers applying for Italian visas, particularly impacting applicants in Russia. The change means that anyone applying directly for a visa at Italian visa centers in Russia must now undergo biometric data collection (fingerprints and photo) for every single application.
This marks a significant departure from the standard Schengen visa procedure, where biometrics are generally required only once every 59 months . The new policy makes biometric collection a mandatory requirement for every new application, reflecting a much stricter approach .
Quick Facts: Italy's New Biometric Rule 2026
Feature | Details |
Effective Date | July 20, 2026 |
Affected Applicants | Those applying at Italian visa centers in Russia |
New Requirement | Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) for every visa application |
Previous Rule | Biometrics once every 59 months |
Purpose | Prevent appointment fraud, strengthen identity verification |
Similar Measures | Greece and Spain have implemented similar rules |
What Changed on July 20, 2026
Biometrics Now Required for Every Application
Under the new rule, applicants applying for an Italian visa at the Visa Application Centre in Moscow (and likely other Italian visa centers in Russia) must provide their fingerprints and a photograph for every single visa application .
This is a significant departure from the standard Schengen visa procedure, which generally requires biometric data collection only once every 59 months . Under the previous system, applicants could reuse their biometric data for subsequent applications within that period.
Why the Change Was Made
The new measure aims to prevent applicants from submitting documents at visa centers far from their actual place of residence to secure an appointment more easily. By requiring biometrics for each application, Italian authorities can ensure that applicants are applying at the correct visa center based on their place of residence.
Similar Measures in Other Countries
Italy is not alone in implementing this stricter approach. Greece and Spain have also introduced similar rules , requiring biometrics for every visa application. This reflects a broader trend among Schengen countries to tighten identity verification and prevent appointment fraud.
Impact on Applicants
In-Person Visits Required for Every Application
Previously, applicants could submit their visa application and reuse their biometric data if they had been collected within the last 59 months. According to the new regulation, all applications now necessitate an in-person visit to a visa application center for biometric collection.
What Applicants Must Do
Action | Details |
Plan for in-person visits | Every visa application now requires a visit to the visa center for biometrics |
Apply well in advance | Biometric appointments may increase processing times |
Ensure documents are complete | Avoid multiple trips by submitting complete documentation |
Check local requirements | Confirm the specific rules at your local Italian visa center |
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