Italy Updates Consular Services and Digital Processing

Italy is overhauling its administrative infrastructure for citizens and residents abroad through Law No. 11/2026. The legislation, which officially entered into force on February 19, 2026, mandates a shift toward digital-first consular services to eliminate the notorious backlogs at Italian missions worldwide.

The policy introduces a "Sportello Estero" one-stop digital platform for document certification, legalizations, and export services. Under the new rules, consulates must publish real-time appointment availability and processing metrics. If a consulate fails to meet performance standards, its processing tasks may be outsourced to a centralized Service Hub in Padua to ensure efficiency.

Who is affected

The primary beneficiaries are Italian expats and AIRE registrants, but the ripple effects extend to the broader remote work community. Digital nomads and travelers will see faster processing for emergency travel documents, with a new 15-day maximum deadline.

Non-EU family members of Italian citizens can expect more predictable visa processing, and document legalizations for degrees or professional certifications are being streamlined. Additionally, starting June 1, 2026, expatriates can request Electronic Identity Cards (CIE) directly through consulates or Italian communes.

What to do

To take advantage of these visa updates, individuals should ensure they have a SPID digital ID, which is required to access the new digital portal. Most notarial acts and powers of attorney can now be handled via electronic signatures, reducing the need for in-person appointments.

Key targets under the law include:

• Passport renewals reduced from 60 days to under 3 weeks.
• Digital submission for most notarial acts and degree legalizations.
• Real-time booking systems for all consular appointments.

While many digital pilots are already active, full implementation regulations are expected by May 2026. Users should monitor their local consulate’s website for the rollout of the "Sportello Estero" platform in their specific region.

Read our full Italy guide for the complete picture.