Skip to main content

San Marino Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghanistan citizens require a visa for San Marino; applications for Schengen visas (valid for San Marino) must be submitted to the Italian Embassy or Consulate in a neighboring country or a visa application center. The approximate fee is EUR 80, with processing taking around 15-30 working days.

Guide last updated July 26, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and have at least two blank pages.
  • Visa Application Form: Completed and signed Schengen visa application form. You can usually download this from the website of the Italian Embassy or Consulate where you will apply.
  • Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos (35x45 mm) with a white background, neutral facial expression, and full face visible.
  • Financial Proof: Bank statements from the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds to cover your stay (minimum EUR 45 per day is generally recommended, but specific amounts can vary). This can also include salary slips, sponsorship letters if applicable.
  • Accommodation: Proof of confirmed accommodation for your entire stay (e.g., hotel bookings, invitation letter from a host if staying with someone).
  • Return Ticket: Reservation of your return flight ticket.
  • Travel Itinerary: A detailed travel plan.
  • Travel Health Insurance: Mandatory. Must cover medical expenses and repatriation with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000. It must be valid in all Schengen countries.
  • Biometrics: Fingerprints and a digital photograph will be collected at the time of application submission. This is typically done at the visa application center or the consulate/embassy.
  • Proof of Employment/Status in Afghanistan: Letter from employer or proof of student status, business registration if self-employed, etc.
  • Other documents may be required based on the purpose of visit (e.g., business invitation letter, student admission letter).

Visa Types

  • Tourist Visa (Schengen Type C):
  • Official Name: Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C).
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Entry: Can be single, double, or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 80 (standard fee for adults).
  • Business Visa (Schengen Type C):
  • Official Name: Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) for business purposes.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Entry: Can be single, double, or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 80 (standard fee for adults).
  • Note: San Marino is part of the Schengen Area for visa purposes. Therefore, you will apply for a Schengen visa, which will be valid for entry into San Marino.
  • Work Visas: For work, you typically need to obtain a national visa (Type D) from Italy, as there are no San Marino consulates abroad. This process is more complex and involves proving employment and work permits. Consult the Italian Embassy for details.

How to apply

  • Since San Marino does not have its own consulates or embassies abroad, Afghanistan citizens must apply for a Schengen visa through the Italian Embassy or Consulate responsible for their region. This is usually the Italian Embassy in a neighboring country or a designated visa application center (e.g., VFS Global, BLS International) in a major city.
  • Step 1: Determine the responsible Italian Embassy or Consulate. This will depend on your country of residence in Afghanistan or the country from which you will lodge your application.
  • Step 2: Book an appointment. Visit the website of the relevant Italian Embassy/Consulate or the appointed visa application center to book an appointment.
  • Step 3: Gather required documents. Prepare all necessary documents as listed in the 'What you need' section.
  • Step 4: Submit your application. Attend your appointment to submit your application form, documents, pay the visa fee, and provide biometric data.
  • Step 5: Visa processing. The embassy or consulate will process your application. You may be required to attend an interview.
  • Step 6: Collect your passport. Once a decision is made, you can collect your passport from the submission center or have it couriered.
  • Official Portal: While https://www.esteri.sm/ is the official portal for San Marino, it redirects to Italian consular services for visa information related to entry into San Marino. Always refer to the website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Farnesina) or the specific Italian Embassy/Consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date visa application procedures.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa Fee: EUR 80 for adults (standard fee for a Schengen visa).
  • Approximate USD: USD 88 (exchange rate dependent).
  • For children aged 6-12: EUR 40.
  • Visa-exempt children under 6: Free.
  • VFS/BLS Service Fee: If applying through a visa application center, expect an additional service fee, typically around EUR 25-35.
  • Total Cost Estimate: EUR 105 - 115 (including service fee).
  • Standard Processing Time: Approximately 15 calendar days. This can extend up to 30-45 days in specific cases or during peak seasons.
  • Express/Priority Option: Generally not available for standard Schengen visa applications. Processing times are fixed unless there are exceptional humanitarian reasons. It is advisable to apply well in advance.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply Well in Advance: Due to potentially longer processing times and the need to secure appointments, it is highly recommended to apply for your visa at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date.
  • Common Rejection Reasons for Afghanistan Applicants:
  • Insufficient proof of financial means: Not demonstrating enough funds to cover the stay.
  • Lack of strong ties to Afghanistan: Failure to convince the authorities of your intention to return, such as stable employment, family, property.
  • Incomplete or inaccurate application forms and documents.
  • Unclear purpose of visit or itinerary.
  • Previous visa refusals or immigration violations.
  • VFS/BLS vs. Direct Embassy Application: Applying through VFS or BLS can be more convenient as they streamline the process. However, some embassies might require direct submission for certain visa types or specific applicants. Check the specific requirements of the Italian Embassy you are dealing with.
  • Travel Advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories issued by your home country and by countries like Italy regarding travel to Afghanistan and transit routes. Information on the website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Farnesina) is crucial.
  • Extension Options Inside San Marino: Extensions are generally not granted for short-stay Schengen visas. If you need to stay longer, you would typically need to apply for a different type of visa or permit from the San Marino authorities before your current visa expires, often requiring you to leave the Schengen area and re-apply. However, there might be exceptions in case of serious illness or force majeure. Consult San Marino's immigration office for specific guidance.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.