In October 2026, Frontex (the EU border agency) and European travel-trade bodies warned of more than 150 unofficial websites offering ETIAS, some using EU symbols. Because no application is processed before launch, any fee paid today buys nothing. When ETIAS opens, apply only on the official EU website or app.
Vatican City and San Marino
Both are enclaves inside Italy and can only be reached through Italian territory. Your Schengen entry into Italy, and ETIAS once it starts, is what counts. Their own nationals and Vatican passport holders are outside ETIAS.
At Italian border control
Officers may ask for proof of accommodation (hotel booking or address), travel insurance, a return or onward ticket and proof of enough money for your stay.
Lost or stolen passport
You cannot leave Italy on a police report. You need a new passport or an emergency travel document from your embassy, and a new ETIAS for the new passport once ETIAS is live.
Overstaying
Italian immigration offices (questura) handle exceptional extensions. Overstaying the 90 days can lead to a ban from the whole Schengen area.
The basics, in short
- Passport issued under 10 years ago, valid 3 months after you leave.
- 90 days in any 180, all Schengen countries together.
- ETIAS at launch: €20, valid 3 years or until the passport expires.
Rollout, decision times and the 30 countries: full ETIAS guide.
FAQ
Will I need ETIAS for Italy?
Yes, once it is operational, if your nationality is visa-exempt. Not yet: no applications are accepted (checked 21 October 2026).
Do I need a separate ETIAS for the Vatican or San Marino?
No. You reach them through Italy, so your Italian entry is the one that matters.
I lost my passport in Rome. Can I fly home with a police report?
No. Get an emergency travel document or new passport from your embassy first.
Checked: 21 October 2026, against eur-lex.europa.eu, gov.uk, home-affairs.ec.europa.eu. Rules can change: official sites prevail. No ETIAS start date has been announced; we will not guess one.