Italy Visa for Christmas & New Year: Application Guide

When to apply for Christmas travel

December is the second-busiest visa season after summer. Consulates have reduced hours around Christmas and New Year, so apply no later than late November for a mid-December trip.

Processing time over the holidays

Expect 15-30 days, plus extra delays around public holidays when consulates are closed. Plan buffer time.

Consulate closures

Italian consulates close for Italian and US public holidays. Check your consulate's calendar before booking your appointment.

How to secure a slot

Slots are scarce in December. Register early, check daily, and prepare documents ahead. We can secure your appointment in 1-48 hours.

Preparation checklist: count back from your departure date

Work backwards from your planned departure date to stay ahead of the holiday rush.

• Departure − 90 days: check your passport is valid at least 3 months beyond your return date; renew it if not.
• Departure − 60 days: gather documents — bank statements, Schengen travel insurance, flight itinerary, accommodation proof.
• Departure − 45 days: book your Prenot@Mi appointment (December slots are scarce).
• Departure − 30 days: confirm your consulate's Christmas and New Year closure dates on its official website.
• Departure − 15 days: attend your appointment and submit your application (latest recommended).
• After submitting: allow 15–30 days processing, plus extra delays around public holidays.

Official holiday closures

Italian consulates close on Italian and US public holidays. Confirm your consulate's exact closure dates before booking:

• Consulate General of Italy in New York
• Consulate General of Italy in Los Angeles
• Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco
• Embassy of Italy in Washington, D.C.