Italy opens to Russian tourists
The Italian authorities decided to simplify the rules for issuing visas to Russian tourists. The decision was made in the framework of the cross year of Russia and Italy. It is planned to organize interregional events, new tours of cities that were not previously included in the tourist program, so the liberalization of visa rules will not be superfluous. Those who wish to be in Italy will have less hassle when applying for entry.
According to the Italian Embassy, the percentage of Russian tourists is growing every year by 25%. Russians like to visit Italy and return many times. The main bet of the Italian authorities is on shopping and gastronomic tours. Italy is a country that forms most of the country’s budget due to the inflow of funds from the tourism sector and financial injections, which now largely come from the pockets of Russian tourists, in the midst of the crisis, when the treasury is empty before our eyes, it turns out to be more convenient than ever. Russian tourists are more willing than others to part with money, wanting to have fun, stock up on souvenirs, and most importantly dress in Italian fashion. Thousands of tourists are leaving large sums in Italian shops. In 2013, Russians brought more than 1.5 billion euros to the Italian economy. Thus, Italians, so zealous about their country, willingly share it with tourists, already beginning to adjust their market to the needs of the Russian tourist.
Soon there will be new Italian visa centers in Volgograd and Rostov-on-Don, a little later will open three centers in the Urals. The total number of visa issuing centres will increase to 22. We currently have 17 centres in the country.
During 2014, it is planned to simplify the procedures for issuing visas for tour operators, children under 12 years old, professional athletes, teachers. People who have visited Italy frequently or once will be able to apply for multiple and long-term visas in a simplified manner.
Otherwise, the simplification will apply to multiple-entry visas for two or three years. For students, paperwork will be free.