Singaporeans visiting Italy? ETIAS will be required from 2026

If you're a Singapore passport holder planning a trip to Italy or other parts of Europe, there’s a key change to prepare for: ETIAS.

Starting in late 2026, you’ll need to apply for the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before traveling.

Do Singaporeans need a visa to travel to Italy?

No, Italy allows visa-free short stays for Singaporeans, up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This will remain in place.

But once ETIAS launches in 2026, you’ll need pre-approval via the online system. Without it, you won’t be allowed to board your flight to Italy.

💬 Rachel from Singapore, a frequent traveler to Europe:

"I’ve used ESTA for the U.S. before, so this is basically the same thing. It’s good to know it’s all digital."

What is ETIAS, and how does it work?

The ETIAS is an online security clearance system developed by the EU to screen travelers from visa-exempt countries before they arrive. It's not a visa, the registration system is a lot simpler and quicker.

Once approved, it’s digitally linked to your passport and allows travel to all 30 Schengen countries, including Italy, France, Switzerland, and Spain.

You’ll need ETIAS if you’re visiting Italy for:

• Tourism
• Business
• Medical treatment
• Transit

📌 ETIAS is not valid for work or studies.

What Singaporeans need to apply for ETIAS

To apply, you must have:

• A Singapore passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure from the Schengen Area
• A working email address
• A credit or debit card to pay the application fee (approx. €7 + iVisa service fees)
• Basic travel details (first destination, travel dates, etc.)

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, says:

"Most travelers are approved quickly, but always apply at least a few days before your flight – especially during the early rollout."

Step-by-step: How to apply for ETIAS from Singapore

1️⃣ Visit the official ETIAS portal or apply through iVisa or our mobile app.

2️⃣ Fill out your personal info, passport details, and trip plans.

3️⃣ Pay securely online using a card or PayPal and upload the required documents before submitting.

You'll receive your confirmation via email usually within minutes to 72 hours. Once approved, ETIAS is automatically linked to your passport, so no need to print anything.

ETIAS validity: How long does it last?

Once approved, your ETIAS authorisation allows you to:

• Enter Italy and other Schengen countries multiple times
• Stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period
• Use the same ETIAS for 3 years, or until your passport expires

🌍 Full list of ETIAS countries

FAQs for Singaporean travelers

Do I need ETIAS every time I visit Europe?

No. You only need to apply once every 3 years, unless your passport expires sooner.

Can I use ETIAS for working or studying in Italy?

No. ETIAS only covers short stays. You’ll need a national visa for longer trips and working or studying in the country.

I’m flying to Italy in 2025. Do I need ETIAS?

No. ETIAS goes live in 2026. You're free to travel as usual before then. Check this page regularly, as we'll update it with new information when it becomes available.

Long-term stays: What are my options?

If you're planning to:

• Study at an Italian university
• Work or start a business
• Join family members living in Italy

You’ll need to apply for a national visa at the Italian consulate in Singapore. Learn more at the Italian MFA portal.

Need help applying?

Message our team on WhatsApp or visit our contact page to chat. We’ll walk you through every step.