Short-term Schengen visas for fashion models

Those who work in the fashion field as models have the possibility, in case they want to travel to Italy for limited periods of maximum 90 days every 180 days, to obtain a business visa - the basic element is that they are invited to Italy by a fashion agency with which they intend to engage in contacts and negotiations for collaborations in the fashion field (photo shoots, participation in future fashion shows etc..).

Visa applications must therefore be accompanied by the standard documentation required for the issuance of business visas, including appropriate documentation issued by ASSEM - Associazione Servizi Moda in support of the activity to be carried out in Italy.

What can models who obtain a Schengen business visa do?

The general rule that applies in Italy is that working non-EU citizens must hold a residence permit enabling them to carry out work activities.

This is also true for models and models who obtain a Schengen business visa at the invitation of a fashion agency operating in Italy: in these cases, the activities that visa holders can carry out are limited to participation in castings, business meetings with agents and potential clients, negotiations for participation and collaboration in photo shoots, video shoots, fashion shows - however, actual participation in shoots and fashion shows is not possible because this would consist in carrying out a work activity for which as holders of a short-term Schengen visa they are not authorized.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

Our team is available to provide support and assistance throughout the process! Contact us to book your first consultation with us and to start the process of obtaining a Schengen business visa for fashion models! #YourWaytoItaly

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

Article written by Alessia Ajelli, Managing Associate of LCA Studio Legale, Italian lawyer specialized on Italian immigration and citizenship law, and Paolo Grassi, Trainee of LCA Studio Legale.