Get Your San Marino Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism and business travel — discover ancient towers, stunning views, and rich history
TrustpilotHow to Get Your San Marino Visa
Simple 4-step process — San Marino requires a Schengen visa for most non-EU travelers
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive Schengen visa application form with your travel details, personal information, and planned itinerary. Since San Marino has no border controls with Italy and is not an EU member, you'll need a valid Schengen visa to reach it. Our system validates your information in real-time to ensure accuracy.
2
Upload required documents
Submit your passport scan showing validity of at least 3 months beyond your intended stay, a recent passport-style photograph meeting Schengen specifications, proof of accommodation in San Marino or Italy, travel insurance with minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR, and evidence of sufficient funds for your trip.
3
We process your application
Your verified application is reviewed by our visa specialists who ensure compliance with Schengen requirements. We prepare your documentation package and guide you through the embassy appointment process for the Italian Schengen visa, which grants access to San Marino.
4
Receive your visa and travel
Once your Schengen visa is approved and affixed to your passport, you're ready to explore San Marino. Enter through Italy and enjoy seamless border-free access to this enchanting microstate. The Three Towers and medieval charm of the world's oldest republic await!
San Marino Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Schengen Visa Required
Up to 90 days
San Marino requires a valid Schengen visa for entry via Italy
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and cultural exploration
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For meetings, conferences, and commercial activities
Visa Exemption
Up to 90 days
EU/EEA citizens and Schengen-exempt nationalities enter freely
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages
- Recent passport photo (35x45mm, white background)
- Travel insurance with 30,000 EUR medical coverage
- Confirmed accommodation booking in San Marino or Italy
- Proof of sufficient funds (approx. 50 EUR per day)
- Return/onward flight tickets and detailed itinerary
Schengen Visa for San Marino
San Marino, the world's oldest surviving republic founded in 301 AD, is a unique destination that presents a distinctive visa situation. Despite being an independent nation completely surrounded by Italy, San Marino is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Area. However, it maintains an open border policy with Italy, meaning there are no formal border controls between the two countries.
For most international travelers, visiting San Marino requires a valid Schengen visa. Since all entry points to San Marino pass through Italy, you must be legally permitted to enter and stay in the Schengen Area. Citizens of EU/EEA countries can enter freely with a valid ID card or passport. Nationals of countries with Schengen visa exemption agreements (including the USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Japan, and many others) can visit San Marino visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, using their regular Italian/Schengen entry stamp.
If you require a visa to enter the Schengen Area, you'll need to apply for an Italian Schengen visa at the Italian embassy or consulate in your country. When applying, indicate San Marino as your destination or as part of your Italian travel itinerary.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
For Schengen Visa Applicants
If your nationality requires a Schengen visa, you'll need to prepare the following documentation for your Italian embassy appointment:
• Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages for stamps
• Completed application form: The standard Schengen visa application form, filled out accurately and signed
• Passport photographs: Two recent photos (35x45mm) with white background, meeting ICAO standards
• Travel insurance: Policy covering medical emergencies and repatriation with minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR, valid throughout the Schengen Area
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations in San Marino and/or Italy for your entire stay
• Flight reservations: Return or onward tickets showing entry and exit from the Schengen Area
• Financial proof: Bank statements from the last 3 months demonstrating sufficient funds (approximately 50 EUR per day)
• Employment documentation: Letter from employer, business registration, or student enrollment proof
• Travel itinerary: Detailed day-by-day plan including San Marino visit
Visa-Exempt Travelers
Who Can Visit Without a Visa?
Many nationalities can visit San Marino without obtaining a Schengen visa, thanks to visa exemption agreements with the European Union. These travelers can stay in the Schengen Area (including San Marino) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Visa-exempt nationalities include: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Israel, and many others. Citizens of these countries simply need a valid passport to enter Italy and access San Marino.
Important Notes for Visa-Exempt Travelers
Even without a visa, you should carry:
• Proof of accommodation reservations
• Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
• Return or onward travel tickets
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
ETIAS Requirements (Coming Soon)
Starting in 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization before traveling to Europe. This is a simple online process costing approximately 7 EUR and valid for 3 years. DoVisa will assist with ETIAS applications once the system becomes operational.
Getting to San Marino & Travel Tips
Reaching San Marino
San Marino has no airport, train station, or seaport — all visitors arrive overland from Italy. The most common access points are:
• Rimini (Italy): The nearest major city, just 22 km away. Regular bus service (Line 72) runs from Rimini train station to San Marino city center, taking about 40 minutes. Rimini is well-connected to Bologna, Florence, and other Italian cities by train.
• Bologna Airport (BLQ): The nearest international airport, approximately 135 km from San Marino. Accessible via train to Rimini, then bus to San Marino.
• By car: San Marino is accessible via Italian highways. Parking is available in the city, though the historic center is largely pedestrian.
Travel Tips
• Best time to visit: April to October offers pleasant weather; summer (June-August) is warmest but also busiest with tourists
• Currency: San Marino uses the Euro (EUR), same as Italy
• Language: Italian is the official language; English is widely understood in tourist areas
• Passport stamps: While there's no formal border, you can get a decorative San Marino stamp at the tourist office for a small fee — a popular souvenir!
• Stay duration: Most visitors explore San Marino as a day trip, but staying overnight allows you to experience the magical atmosphere after the day-trippers leave
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
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"Didn't realize I needed a Schengen visa just to visit San Marino! DoVisa explained everything clearly and helped me get my Italian visa sorted. Amazing little country!"
"Good service overall. The process for Schengen visa is lengthy but DoVisa made the paperwork manageable. Got my stamp at the San Marino tourist office too!"
"As a Japanese citizen I didn't need a visa but used DoVisa for travel insurance and tips. San Marino is like stepping back in time. Highly recommend the tower walk!"
"The Schengen visa process seemed daunting but DoVisa guided me step by step. Now I've visited the world's oldest republic! The views from Mount Titano are incredible."
"Helpful team that answered all my questions about visiting San Marino from Italy. The embassy appointment was the hardest part but their preparation helped."
"Combined my San Marino trip with a week in Italy. DoVisa made sure my Schengen visa covered everything. The medieval towers are spectacular at sunset!"
"Such a unique destination! DoVisa helped with all the Schengen requirements. Got my decorative passport stamp from San Marino - a great souvenir!"
"Visa process took about 3 weeks which is normal for Schengen. DoVisa's document checklist was very thorough. San Marino exceeded expectations."
"Wonderful experience from start to finish. The team explained that San Marino uses the Euro despite not being in the EU. Very knowledgeable staff!"
"Perfect service for planning my microstate tour. Visited San Marino, Monaco, and Vatican City all on one Schengen visa. DoVisa made it seamless!"
"The application process was straightforward with DoVisa's help. San Marino is small but packed with history. The crossbow tournament was amazing!"
San Marino Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit San Marino?
San Marino's visa requirements depend on your nationality. Since San Marino is completely surrounded by Italy and has no border controls, you must be legally permitted to enter Italy (and the Schengen Area) to reach San Marino. EU/EEA citizens can enter freely with a valid ID or passport. Citizens of Schengen visa-exempt countries (USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many others) can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. If your nationality requires a Schengen visa to enter Europe, you'll need to obtain an Italian Schengen visa before traveling to San Marino.
Is San Marino part of the Schengen Area?
No, San Marino is not officially part of the Schengen Area. However, due to its unique geographical situation — being entirely surrounded by Italy with no border controls — it functions similarly to a Schengen country in practice. San Marino is also not a member of the European Union. Despite this, the country uses the Euro as its currency and maintains very close ties with Italy. For practical travel purposes, once you're legally in Italy, you can freely enter San Marino without additional checks.
What type of visa do I need for San Marino?
If you require a visa to visit San Marino, you'll need to apply for an Italian Schengen visa (short-stay visa, Type C). This is because all access to San Marino is through Italy. When completing your application, you can list San Marino as your main destination or include it as part of your Italian itinerary. The standard Schengen tourist visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. For business purposes, apply for a Schengen business visa with appropriate supporting documentation from your San Marino business contacts.
How long can I stay in San Marino?
Your permitted stay in San Marino is governed by Schengen Area rules. Visa-exempt travelers can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the entire Schengen Area (your time in Italy and San Marino combined counts toward this limit). Schengen visa holders can stay according to the validity period and number of days granted on their visa, typically up to 90 days. Most visitors explore San Marino as a day trip from Italian cities like Rimini, but there are lovely hotels if you wish to stay overnight and experience the country after the crowds leave.
What documents are required for a Schengen visa to visit San Marino?
For a Schengen visa application to visit San Marino, you'll need: valid passport (3+ months validity beyond your planned stay, with 2 blank pages), completed application form, two passport photos (35x45mm, white background), travel insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage), proof of accommodation in San Marino and/or Italy, flight reservations showing entry/exit from Schengen Area, bank statements proving sufficient funds (approximately 50 EUR per day), employment proof or business registration, and a detailed travel itinerary. Requirements may vary slightly by embassy.
How do I get to San Marino?
San Marino has no airport, train station, or seaport — all visitors arrive overland from Italy. The most common routes are: From Rimini: The nearest city, just 22 km away. Take bus Line 72 from Rimini train station to San Marino (approximately 40 minutes). From Bologna Airport: The nearest major international airport (135 km). Take a train to Rimini, then the bus to San Marino. By car: Drive via Italian highways; parking is available but the historic center is pedestrian-only. By tour: Many operators offer day trips from Italian cities including Florence, Venice, and Rome.
Can I extend my stay in San Marino?
Extending your stay involves Schengen Area rules since San Marino has no independent immigration system. If you hold a Schengen visa, you cannot typically extend it while in Europe except for exceptional circumstances (serious illness, force majeure). You would need to leave the Schengen Area and apply for a new visa. For visa-exempt travelers, you must respect the 90/180-day rule — no extensions are available. If you need to stay longer, you may need to apply for a national long-stay visa from Italy, which has different requirements and processing times. Always ensure you don't overstay your permitted time.
Is there border control between Italy and San Marino?
No, there is no formal border control between Italy and San Marino. You can cross freely in both directions without passport checks or immigration procedures. The border is essentially invisible — you'll simply see a sign welcoming you to the Republic of San Marino. However, this open border policy is why you need to be legally present in Italy (with a valid Schengen visa if required) to visit San Marino. While there's no official stamp given at the border, you can obtain a decorative San Marino passport stamp at the tourist information office in the historic center for a small fee (around 5 EUR) — a popular souvenir!
What currency is used in San Marino?
San Marino uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. Although San Marino is not an EU member, it has a monetary agreement with the European Union that allows it to use the Euro and even mint its own Euro coins (which are legal tender throughout the Eurozone and popular with collectors). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for smaller establishments and the bus ride from Rimini. ATMs are available throughout the country. Currency exchange is not necessary if you're coming from Italy or other Eurozone countries.
Do I need travel insurance to visit San Marino?
For Schengen visa applicants: Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Your policy must provide minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR for medical emergencies and repatriation, and must be valid throughout the Schengen Area for your entire stay. This is a strict requirement and your visa application will be rejected without adequate insurance. For visa-exempt travelers: Insurance isn't legally required but is strongly recommended. San Marino's healthcare costs can be expensive for uninsured visitors. A good travel insurance policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. DoVisa can recommend suitable insurance providers.
What is the best time to visit San Marino?
San Marino enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons. April to October offers the best weather for sightseeing, with warm temperatures and generally clear skies perfect for enjoying the panoramic views from the towers. Summer (June-August) is warmest (25-30°C) but also busiest with tourists. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal conditions with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. Winter is cooler and quieter; some facilities may have reduced hours, but the medieval atmosphere is magical with occasional snow. Major events include the Medieval Days festival in July and the crossbow tournament in September.
What are the main attractions in San Marino?
San Marino's compact size packs in remarkable attractions: The Three Towers (Guaita, Cesta, and Montale) — medieval fortresses connected by a walking path with spectacular views. Piazza della Libertà — the main square featuring the Palazzo Pubblico (government building) and changing of the guard ceremony. Basilica di San Marino — a neoclassical church housing relics of Saint Marinus, the country's founder. State Museum — showcasing over 5,000 years of history. Torture Museum — a fascinating (if macabre) collection of medieval instruments. The entire historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the stunning panoramic views stretching to the Adriatic Sea and across the Italian countryside.
Can I work in San Marino with a tourist visa?
No, you cannot work in San Marino with a Schengen tourist visa. Tourist and business visas are strictly for temporary visits — tourism, attending meetings, or exploring business opportunities. Working, paid or unpaid employment, and receiving income from San Marinese sources require appropriate work authorization. San Marino has its own work permit system separate from both Italy and the EU, though it maintains close cooperation with Italy on immigration matters. If you wish to work in San Marino, you'll need to secure a job offer from a San Marinese employer who will sponsor your work permit application through the country's immigration authorities.
What if my Schengen visa application is rejected?
Schengen visa rejections, while disappointing, can often be resolved. Common rejection reasons include: insufficient financial documentation, incomplete travel insurance, unclear travel purpose, missing documents, or previous Schengen violations. If rejected: You'll receive a letter stating the reason(s). You can appeal the decision within the timeframe specified (usually 1-3 months) by addressing the stated concerns. Alternatively, you can reapply with improved documentation. DoVisa helps analyze rejection reasons and strengthens reapplications. Our guarantee: If your application is rejected due to an error in our preparation or document handling, we provide a full refund of our service fee and free assistance with your reapplication.
How long does it take to get a Schengen visa for San Marino?
Schengen visa processing typically takes 15 calendar days from the date of your embassy appointment, though times can vary. During peak travel season (summer months) or around holidays, processing may extend to 30-45 days. In straightforward cases, some embassies issue visas within 5-7 days. We recommend applying at least 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date to allow time for document preparation, appointment scheduling, and processing. Schengen visa applications can be submitted up to 6 months before your trip. DoVisa helps expedite the preparation phase so you're ready when your appointment arrives.
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