Skip the visa application. Prepare for your trip.
Start with your passport and entry documents, then check the arrival formalities.
Before you travel
Check the passport and supporting documents listed below. Keep copies accessible during your journey.
When you arrive
Have your travel documents ready for the destination’s entry checks.
During your visit
Check the permission you receive and leave before your authorised stay ends.
Check your trip dates
Count your travel days and compare your passport expiry with the entry rule.
What to prepare for your trip
Check each item as you prepare it. Labels show which documents are required, conditional, or recommended.
Your circumstances may require additional documents. Ticks track preparation, not eligibility or admission.
Details that can change your plans
Transit through Schengen is part of a San Marino trip
San Marino's Ministry says every visitor must travel through the Schengen area. Visitors from outside Schengen need the authorisations required for Schengen entry and transit before departure. A visa-free result for San Marino does not by itself give permission to enter Italy or another Schengen country.
Official guidanceStays over 30 days require a San Marino permit
A foreign visitor planning to stay in San Marino for more than 30 days must hold a local stay permit or residence. The Ministry says visitors must apply in person to the Gendarmerie's Foreigners' Office within the first 30 days. This is separate from permission to enter or transit Schengen; contact the Ministry about the permit process before planning a longer stay.
Official guidanceCheck passport dates against your Schengen departure
For these non-EU passports, EU guidance says the document must have been issued within the last 10 years and remain valid at least 3 months after your planned departure from the EU/Schengen area. Count from the end of any Italy or other Schengen travel after San Marino, not just the day you leave San Marino.
Official guidanceCanadian visitors: check local permit and registration steps
Canada's current San Marino travel advice says stays under 10 days need no local permit, stays of 10 to 30 days need a tourist permit, and stays over 30 days need a stay permit. It also says visitors staying more than 3 days must register with the Gendarmerie within 24 hours; accommodation providers can register hotel guests, while visitors in private accommodation must contact the Gendarmerie themselves. San Marino's Ministry confirms the over-30-day permit but does not list these shorter-stay categories on its English visitor page. Confirm the permit and registration steps with the Gendarmerie for your dates and accommodation.
Official guidancePractical tips for San Marino
Small preparation steps to keep your travel information within reach.
The tourist passport stamp is optional
The Tourism Information Office offers a €5 souvenir stamp. It is not the visa or permission needed to enter Italy.
San Marino at a glance
- Capital
- San Marino
- Currency
- EUR
- Calling code
- +378
Questions for this route
Do travelers with an ordinary passport from Canada need a visa for San Marino?
Travelers visiting San Marino for tourism with an ordinary passport from Canada do not need a visa for up to 90 days per visit. Entry conditions still apply.
How long can I stay in San Marino?
The short-visit limit is 90 days per visit. Your actual permission can be shorter; check the dates and conditions you receive.
How much passport validity do I need?
At least 3 months after planned departure. Issued within the last 10 years.
What if I’m going to work, study or stay longer?
This guide is for a short tourist visit on an ordinary passport. It does not establish eligibility for employment, study or residence. Use the destination’s official guidance for your actual purpose.
Does my country of residence change the answer?
Passport nationality and legal residence are different. This page starts with your passport. Residence can change where you apply and which application channel is available; an existing visa or residence permit may also create an exception. Check the official eligibility guidance for your circumstances.
Official websites
Use these government websites to confirm requirements and complete any application.
About this guide
This guide covers short tourist visits on an ordinary passport. Your nationality, residence, travel document and purpose can affect the entry conditions. Check the linked official guidance before travel; the border authority decides admission and your permitted stay.
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