RIYADH, 28 September 2006 — The Italian Embassy in the Kingdom has simplified its requirements for issuing Schengen visas to Saudis.
“The new arrangement has been made by the embassy and its consulate general in Jeddah in order to facilitate trade and investments between Italy and the Kingdom,” Nicola Orlando of the embassy told Arab News.
He added that the mission has minimized its requirements since it wants more Saudi businessmen, investors and tourists to visit the country.
“Applicants in possession of a ‘declaration of invitation’ to Italy by a firm operating in Italy are exempted from submitting documents proving the condition of economic-commercial operator and the objectives of the journey,” he said.
Moreover, he added, that in some cases applicants might also be exempted from presenting other documents such as medical insurance and bank guarantees.
Nicola said visas could be issued within a period of nine days for Saudis. The visa fees are SR166. He said the period of stay and the types of visa — single entry or multiple entry — would be decided on the merit of the visa applicants. However, he said, visas could be issued for a maximum period of one year.
Italy ranks sixth as a commercial partner of the Kingdom.
