VFS vs Direct Consulate for Italy Visa: What's the Difference?

What is VFS Global?

VFS Global is a third-party company some Schengen countries use to collect visa applications. For Italy in the US, most consulates do NOT use VFS — you apply directly at the consulate via Prenot@Mi.

Does Italy in the US use VFS?

No. Italian consulates in the US handle Schengen visa applications directly. You book on Prenot@Mi and submit in person at the consulate. VFS is used by Italy in some OTHER countries, but not in the US.

Direct consulate vs VFS

• Direct consulate: book on Prenot@Mi, no middleman, pay only the government fee.
• VFS: used in some countries, adds a service fee on top of the visa fee.

The bottom line

If you're applying in the US, it's direct consulate only. Book via Prenot@Mi — or let us secure your appointment in 1-48 hours.