What is the Visa for Sports Competition?
The Visa for Sports Competition is issued to foreign citizens who aim or are invited to participate, on a professional or amateur basis, in single competitions or in a series of sports events organized by National Sports Federations or by associated Sports Disciplines recognized by CONI, the Italian National Olympic Committee.
Who is eligible for a Sports Competition Visa?
The Visa for Sports Competition allows foreign athletes, coaches, technical directors and sports directors who have been invited to a competition or sports event in Italy to enter the Country.
Main requirements to apply for a Visa for Sports Competition
- The Sports Competition should fall within the scope of sports disciplines organized by the National Sports Federations or by the associated Sports organizations recognized by CONI;
- Obtaining an invitation from CONI (the Italian National Olympic Committee), the competent Italian Sports Federation, or other organization or Club managing the event;
- Possessing adequate economic means of livelihood;
- Availability of suitable accommodation (hotel reservation or declaration of hospitality signed by an EU or extra-EU citizen legally residing in Italy);
- Possession of private health insurance with a minimum coverage of € 30,000 for emergency hospitalization and repatriation expenses, valid throughout the Schengen area.
Main procedural steps
- The applicant communicates to the National Sport Federation the intention to apply for the Visa and submits the necessary documentation;
- The National Sports Federation submits the Visa application to CONI (the Italian National Olympic Committee), which will then release written communication confirming the applicant’s successful involvement;
- The applicant receives an invitation from the Italian Sports Club organising the competition/event;
- The applicant applies for the Visa to the competent Italian Consulate in the Country of residence.
Validity of the Visa for Sport Competition
The Visa for Sports Competition has a duration equal to the actual sport event, or up to a maximum of 90 days when attending a series of events.
On the contrary, it is not possible to carry out remunerated and continuous sports activities with an Italian Sport Club for those who entered Italy holding a Tourist Visa or a Visa for Sports Competitions. A long-term Sports Visa would be required in this case.
Time Frame
The application for a Sports Competition Visa submitted by National Sports Federations needs to be submitted at least 15/20 days prior to the event.
