I am applying for a Schengen visa at the Italian consulate in Philadelphia. I will be travelling in Italy and France and will be there for a week. I have done everything on the checklist but just wanted to hear of others experience at the Philadelphia office. How long does it normally take to get your visa? Also are there any additional materials that I should bring with me?
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2What's your citizenship and there is no embassy in Philadelphia there is a consulate. But irrespective of that some of your questions are dependent on the country of your citizenship.– KarlsonJul 21, 2014 at 2:30
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1I take it you're looking for the standard tourist visa.– KarlsonJul 21, 2014 at 2:47
1 Answer
The official page of the Consulate General of Italy in Philadelphia (click English in the top right corner after you open the page if the page is in Italian) has all the informations you need (forms and instructions are in the bottom part of the page) prepare all the required documents and schedule the appointment.
From their FAQs:
How long will it take to get my visa?
It may take between 3 to 21 days depending on the applicant's nationality.
And regarding the right time to apply for a visa
Since during the months of: May, June, July, August, November and December the number of visa applications increase, it is therefore advisable to apply at least 3 weeks in advance. Note, however, that applications cannot be processed earlier than three months before your planned departure date.
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I would like to add that always apply well in advance regardless of estimated times. I've suffered on this hand before and it's not fun being stuck in a country or city because your passport was delayed at the consulate. Jul 21, 2014 at 12:41