Bahamians traveling to Italy? ETIAS is coming in 2026

If you're a Bahamian citizen heading to Italy in 2026 or later, there’s a new entry requirement: ETIAS.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System is a new security measure for visa-free travelers, including those from the Bahamas**.

Do Bahamian citizens need a visa to visit Italy?

No, Bahamian citizens do not need a visa for short stays in Italy, and that won’t change. You can visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or transit.

But from 2026 onward, you’ll need to register for ETIAS authorisation before traveling.

What is the Italy ETIAS?

The ETIAS is a digital travel authorisation required for citizens of visa-exempt countries like The Bahamas. It works much like the U.S. ESTA and UK ETA, a quick online screening tied to your passport.

You’ll need ETIAS to travel to Italy for:

• Tourism
• Business meetings
• Medical treatment
• Airport transit

📌 Note: ETIAS is not valid for long-term stays or immigration purposes.

What do Bahamian travelers need to apply for ETIAS?

To apply, you must have:

• A valid Bahamian passport, with at least 3 months validity after leaving the Schengen Area
• A credit or debit card for the government fee
• A valid email address
• Your first destination and trip dates

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert:

"While most ETIAS approvals are instant, it’s smart to apply at least one week before your trip, especially in the first year it launches."

How to apply for Italy’s ETIAS from The Bahamas

Once ETIAS launches, here’s how to get yours:

1️⃣ Visit the official ETIAS portal or use iVisa or the mobile app for guided support.

2️⃣ Fill out your personal, passport, and travel information.

3️⃣ Pay the application fee and get your confirmation email once approved.

💡 Femke adds:

"ETIAS is linked to your passport, you don’t need to print anything."

How long is ETIAS valid?

Once approved, your ETIAS allows:

• Entry into Italy and 29 other Schengen countries
• Multiple trips for up to 90 days per visit
• Use for 3 years, or until your passport expires

👉 See the full list of ETIAS countries here

FAQs for Bahamian travelers

Do I need to apply for every trip?

No. Your ETIAS is valid for 3 years, unless your passport expires sooner.

Can I study or work in Italy with ETIAS?

No. You’ll need a national visa for any long-term stay, work, or education program.

I’m traveling in 2025, do I need to get the ETIAS?

Not yet. ETIAS will only become mandatory in late 2026.

💡 Femke, iVisa travel expert, recommends:

"Bookmark this page and check back regularly for the latest updates and requirements to make sure you're prepared."

Long-stay visas for Italy

If you’re staying longer than 90 days for:

• Study
• Work
• Family reunification

You’ll need to apply for a national visa through the Italian embassy. Start here: vistoperitalia.esteri.it.

Travel tips from Bahamians in Italy

💬 Trevor, a photographer from Freeport:

"Italy’s trains are great. Get the Italo or Trenitalia app, they make planning easy and it's cheaper too."

💬 Lisa from Nassau:

"Try street food in every city as it’s affordable and authentic!"

💬 Reddit tip:

"Don’t forget to validate your train ticket before boarding at the station, it’s a common tourist mistake. Or make sure your ticket has a specific date and time."

Need help with ETIAS?

iVisa’s expert team is here to support you every step of the way. Message us on WhatsApp or visit our contact page to chat with us.