Entry to Italy for CPHI Milan 2026 is visa-free for many nationalities (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, etc.) for short business stays up to 90 days. All other non-EU/EEA nationals must obtain a Schengen Short-Stay Business Visa (Type C) prior to travel. The event organiser (Informa Markets) cannot issue visa invitation letters directly due to Italian regulations, but has appointed MiCo DMC as an official partner to provide invitation letters and supporting documents for a fee of €125. This service is available to registered attendees using the registration key from their confirmation email. Visa approval is at the sole discretion of the relevant consulate or embassy; neither the organiser nor the partner can guarantee issuance.
Processing: Visa processing times vary by country and application volume. Official guidance suggests applying at least 15 days before travel, but actual processing can take 60 days or more. For CPHI Milan 2026, applicants should apply at least 3 months in advance due to expected peak-season delays.
Key requirements for a business Schengen visa include: a valid passport (with at least 3 months' validity beyond the intended stay and two blank pages), a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photo, travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for the entire Schengen area, proof of sufficient funds for the stay, round-trip flight reservation, hotel booking confirmation, and a formal invitation letter from an Italian host company or the event's authorised partner. For Chinese nationals, the invitation letter must follow a specific format, be on company letterhead, stamped and signed. Applicants should also provide an employer letter stating the purpose of travel, position, and duration of stay. Appointments must be booked through the official Prenotami portal and cannot be made via external agencies.
OfficialPartner
