As a traveler, obtaining a passport can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the process with this comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to get a passport in Italy.
Introduction
In this article, we will take you through the entire process of applying for a passport in Italy, from booking an appointment to receiving your new document. We’ll also cover some important tips and tricks to help you navigate the system.
Passport Renewal: A Myth?
Contrary to popular belief, passports no longer need to be renewed! When your passport expires or is lost, stolen, or damaged, you still need to apply for a new one. So, don’t worry if your current passport is due to expire soon – it’s time to get a new one!
How to Apply for a Passport Online
While it’s possible to book an appointment online through the police state website, there are some things to keep in mind:
- You’ll need to log in with SPID or CIE (Electronic Identity Card) to access your account.
- You can only book an appointment at a specific time slot, which may not always be convenient.
- If you have minor children, they will need their own passport, even if they’re registered in their parents’ passport.
To apply for a passport online:
- Connect to the passaportonline.poliziadistato.it website and click on “Access” for citizens.
- Log in with SPID or CIE (Electronic Identity Card).
- Click on “Book an Appointment” and choose between the police stations or commissariats where you want to book your appointment.
- Select a date and time from the calendar. If there are no available dates, it’s recommended to visit the police station in person, especially if you have reasons for urgent application.
- Fill out the required information and select how you want to receive the document (in office or via post).
- Click on the “Create Receipt” button and verify that you received an email with the receipt.
- Print the receipt and bring it along with your other documents to the appointment.
Unable to Book an Appointment? Tips and What to Do
We know that booking an appointment online can be tricky, so here are some tips to help you:
- Connect to the agenda online at the first hour of the morning when it’s likely to be less busy.
- Insist for several days if the calendar is full, as sometimes dates become available later.
- If there are technical issues, try accessing with different browsers (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari).
Required Documents
Before applying for a passport, you’ll need to gather some documents:
- Receipt from booking an appointment
- 2 recent photos, 35-40 mm wide, with a white background. The face must occupy at least 70% of the photo.
- Copy of payment for postal account n. 67422808, intestate to the Ministry of Economy and Finance Department of the Treasury, €42.50
- Contrassegno telematico (marked postage stamp), €73.50, available at authorized tobacco shops
- Valid ID or recognition document + photocopy of the same document to bring along
- Old passport (damaged or expired) must be presented in any case
Costs
There are some costs associated with applying for a passport:
- Contrassegno telematico (marked postage stamp), €73.50
- Bollettino postale, €42.50
- Total: €116.00
Processing Time
The processing time can vary greatly depending on the police station and the number of applicants:
- In larger cities, it may take 4/6 months to get a date in the agenda, as it’s often fully booked.
- After you arrive for fingerprinting and present your application, it may take 1/2 days to several weeks for the document to be delivered.
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Emergency Procedure
If there’s a “proven emergency” situation, you can request an emergency procedure for your passport application. This allows you to shorten the waiting time:
- Send a PEC (Poste Elettroniche Certificate) to anticipate the appointment
- After booking an appointment in the nearest available date, send a PEC to the police station with the subject “URGENT PASSPORT” and attach relevant documentation.
Requesting a Passport by Post
Some municipalities in Italy have activated the service for requesting passports directly at post offices:
- Prepara i documenti (ensure all documents are ready)
- Make an appointment and go to the post office; some offices may require a pre-appointment booking
- Fill out the request form accurately and provide all required information
- Present the documents to the personnel
- Pay the postal fee and postage stamp
- Receive the passport after completing the procedure
Validity
The validity of your passport depends on your age:
- Passports for people over 18 years old have a validity of 10 years.
- Passports for children aged 3-18 have a validity of 5 years.
- Passports for children under 3 years old have a validity of 3 years.
Child’s Passport
From 2012, minors who want to travel abroad must have an electronic passport and not be registered in their parents’ passports. The child’s passport has a lower validity period:
- Children under 3 years old: 3 years
- Children aged 3-18: 5 years
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about obtaining a passport in Italy:
Do I still need the marked postage stamp on my passport?
Yes, the marked postage stamp is necessary and costs €73.50. It must be paid only once when applying for the document.
Can I apply for a new passport before it expires?
It’s possible to request a new passport with an advance of 6 months compared to the expiration date, and it’s also recommended!
Can I get a passport online without leaving home?
You can start the process online through the police state website and request delivery via post (paying an additional €8.20 in stamp), but you’ll still need to visit the police station for fingerprinting.
Can’t attend the police station? Can I delegate someone?
Yes, it’s possible to appoint a representative to pick up the document, provided they have:
- Recognition documents
- A copy of your identification documents
- A delegation letter
Do I need an assent from my spouse to get a passport for my child?
If you have minor children, only one parent’s signature is required. However, if both parents are involved in the request, it’s recommended that they sign a declaration.
Must I present the application in my hometown of residence?
No, applications can be submitted at any police station or abroad at Italian consulates.
Am I resident outside Italy? How do I get a passport?
You’ll need to contact the Consulate General of Italy where you live (see link here)
