The Italian consulate’s tourist checklist asks for a flight reservation, not a purchased ticket. The EU Visa Code sets 15 days for a decision, up to 45 in individual cases — but the Italian consulate in Moscow warned in June 2026 of at least 60 days because of demand, so apply early and avoid non-refundable bookings. There’s no official fast-track if the visa arrives after your departure date. Apply to the country of your main destination (by length or purpose of stay); if it can’t be determined, the first-entry country. On the form, list the first entry separately from the main destination.
Checked 2026-09-23 · Italy · Money & practical
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Flights | Reservation, not a paid ticket |
| EU rule | 15 days · up to 45 |
| In practice (Moscow 2026) | At least 60 days |
| Delay past departure | No official fast-track |
| Where to apply | Main destination · else first entry |
The rules
Do I need to buy flights first?
Visa delayed past departure
EU Visa Code (Reg. 810/2009) ↗ · Italian Consulate Moscow · tourist visa notice ↗ · MAECI · entry conditions ↗
Entering through another Schengen country
EU Visa Code (Reg. 810/2009) ↗ · Italian Consulate Moscow · tourist visa checklist (PDF) ↗
Quick answers
Do I need to buy flight tickets before an Italian visa is issued?
No — a flight reservation is listed, not a purchased ticket.
What if my Italian tourist visa is delayed past my departure?
There’s no official fast-track; apply early and keep bookings refundable.
How do I fill the itinerary when entering through another Schengen country?
Apply to your main destination and list the first entry separately on the form.
Go deeper in our guides
Related answers
Sources: Italian Consulate Moscow · tourist visa checklist (PDF) ↗ · Italian Consulate Moscow · tourist visa notice ↗ · EU Visa Code (Reg. 810/2009) ↗ · MAECI · entry conditions ↗