Italian Passport Renewal Guide: 2025 Requirements & Process

Are you looking to renew your Italian passport but feeling overwhelmed by the process? You’re not alone. Every year, millions of Italian citizens navigate the passport renewal system, often encountering confusing requirements and unexpected delays. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about renewing your Italian passport in 2025, from determining your eligibility to receiving your new passport.

Who Can Renew an Italian Passport?

Before starting the renewal process, you need to determine if you’re eligible for a simple renewal or if you’ll need to apply as if for a first-time passport. You can renew your passport by mail if you meet all of the following requirements:

• You have your most recent passport in your possession
• Your passport is undamaged (beyond normal wear and tear)
• Your passport was issued within the last 15 years
• You were at least 16 years old when your passport was issued
• Your passport is in your current name (or you can document your name change)

If you don’t meet these criteria, you’ll need to apply in person as if applying for your first passport.

Preparing for Italian Passport Renewal: Essential Documents

Gathering the correct documentation is crucial for a smooth passport renewal process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Required Forms and Documents

1. Form Cerfa n°12100*02 (Application for passport renewal for eligible individuals)
2. Your most recent passport
3. One passport photo that meets all Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs requirements
4. Payment for the passport renewal fee (varies by age)
5. Name change documents (if applicable, such as a marriage certificate or court order)

Passport Photo Requirements

The passport photo is often the trickiest part of the renewal process. The Italian Foreign Ministry has strict requirements:

• Size: 40 × 40 mm (Italian standard dimensions)
• Head must be 75% of the photo from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
• Taken within the last 6 months
• Plain white background
• Neutral facial expression with closed mouth
• Both eyes open
• No glasses, hats, or head coverings (except for religious purposes)

Italian Passport Renewal Process Step-by-Step

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before beginning, verify if you can renew by mail or must apply in person:

• Mail renewal: If you meet all eligibility criteria
• In-person renewal: If your passport is damaged, lost, or you don’t meet renewal criteria

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare all necessary documentation:

• Completed Cerfa form
• Current passport
• Compliant photo
• Proof of address (less than 3 months old)
• Fiscal stamp for fees

Step 3: Prepare Your Photo

The photo is the most critical element:

• Use plain white background
• Ensure head height is exactly 75% of the photo
• Maintain neutral expression
• Use id-photo.ai for guaranteed compliance

Step 4: Submit Your Application

You have two main options:

• By mail: Send all documents to your local OFII or prefecture
• In person: Present at your prefecture with all documents

Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fees

Italian passport fees vary by age:

• Adults (18+): €60 for standard processing
• Minors (15-17): €30
• Children (under 15): €20
• Express processing: Additional €30-50

Step 6: Processing and Delivery

Processing times vary:

• Standard renewal: 3-4 weeks
• Express service: 1-2 weeks (additional fee)
• Urgent/emergency: 24-48 hours (special circumstances)

Italian Passport Renewal Fees and Costs

Standard Fee Structure

• Adults: €60 for standard processing
• Minors (15-17): €30
• Children under 15: €20
• Express processing: Additional €30
• Urgent processing: €50+ additional

Additional Costs to Consider

• Photo expenses: If not taking at home
• Postage: For mail-in applications
• Travel costs: For in-person appointments
• Document copies: Birth certificates, etc.

Special Renewal Situations

Renewal After Name Change

If you’ve changed your name:

• Provide marriage certificate or court order
• Current passport must be surrendered
• Possible to keep old passport (special procedure)

Renewal for Minors

For children:

• Both parents must provide consent
• Age-appropriate photo standards apply
• Reduced fees based on age

Renewal After Loss or Theft

In case of loss:

• Report to police first
• Complete new application (not renewal)
• Higher fees apply
• Possible expedited processing

Avoiding Common Renewal Pitfalls

Documentation Errors

• Missing forms: Ensure all Cerfa forms are complete
• Outdated documents: Proof of address must be current
• Incorrect fees: Use exact amount for your age group
• Incomplete information: Fill all required fields

Photo-Related Issues

• Non-compliant photo: Most common rejection reason
• Wrong dimensions: Must be exactly 75% head height
• Poor quality: Must meet Italian resolution standards
• Old photo: Must be taken within 6 months

Renewal vs. New Passport Application

When to Choose Renewal

• Meet all eligibility criteria
• Passport is undamaged and current
• No major changes to appearance or name
• Standard processing time is acceptable

When to Apply for New Passport

• Passport is damaged or nearing expiration
• Major appearance changes
• Name change requiring documentation
• Lost or stolen passport

Processing Times and What to Expect

Standard Processing

• Mail-in: 3-4 weeks from receipt
• In-person: 2-3 weeks from application
• Peak periods: May take longer during holidays

Express Services

• Priority processing: 1-2 weeks
• Urgent cases: 24-48 hours (medical/travel emergencies)
• Additional fees: €30-50 extra

After Renewal: What Happens Next

Receiving Your Passport

• Mail delivery: Usually sent by registered mail
• In-person pickup: At prefecture (ID required)
• Collection notice: You’ll receive notification when ready

Validating Your New Passport

• Check all information is correct
• Verify photo quality
• Ensure chip is functional (biometric passports)
• Report any errors immediately

Tips for Successful Renewal

Preparation Tips

• Start early, don’t wait until expiration
• Double-check all requirements
• Keep copies of all documents
• Use official forms only

Cost-Saving Tips

• Renew by mail to avoid travel costs
• Take your own photo to save money
• Apply during off-peak times
• Use fiscal stamps correctly

Conclusion

Renewing your Italian passport can seem daunting, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process successfully. The key is preparation: gather all required documents, ensure your photo meets Italian standards, and submit your application complete.

Remember that most renewal rejections are due to non-compliant photos. By using tools like id-photo.ai, you can avoid this common issue and get your renewal approved on the first try.

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