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.
Do the eligibility visa test and find out which type of visa you might be eligible for. One of our legal consultants will get back to you within 24 hours with useful information regarding your case.
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01 August 2024