You’re planning a trip to San Marino, one of the world’s smallest and oldest republics. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to get there, what visas or permits you need, plus unique tips on getting that coveted souvenir passport stamp, navigating customs, and staying longer than 30 days.

Visa Requirements for San Marino

San Marino sits entirely within Italy but isn’t part of the EU or the Schengen Area. In practice, entry to San Marino follows Italian (Schengen) rules as outlined by the European Commission’s Schengen Borders and Visa policy.

Schengen Visa and Entry Through Italy

• If your nationality requires a Schengen visa to enter Italy, you’ll need one to reach San Marino; see the Schengen Visa application guidelines.
• A multiple-entry Schengen visa is strongly recommended if you plan to re-enter Italy after visiting San Marino.

Bilateral Visa Waiver Agreements

San Marino has its own visa waiver pacts with a handful of countries (Argentina, Bosnia & Herzegovina, etc.). These agreements don’t alter Italian border checks but allow San Marino passport holders to bypass Italian visas; details are available on the San Marino Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa page.

Getting into San Marino

Since there’s no airport or seaport, all arrivals pass through Italy.

Borderless Crossing with Italy

• There is no passport control on the Italy–San Marino boundary, as confirmed by the San Marino tourist information portal.
• Most travelers fly into Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI) near Rimini and then take a 30-minute bus or taxi ride; see the Rimini Airport official site for schedules.
• Driving via the A14 motorway is straightforward, with parking available on the outskirts of the ancient city—consult Autostrade per l’Italia for route details.

Customs, Currency, and Practical Matters

Although San Marino is outside the EU, it uses the euro and follows Italian customs rules.

• Currency: Euro, managed by the European Central Bank
• Customs: Declare goods subject to duty or tax under Italian regulations via the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli
• Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for all visitors, as advised by the UN World Tourism Organization

Special Experiences and Regulations

San Marino offers a few quirks you won’t find elsewhere.

Souvenir Passport Stamp

You can get an official “souvenir” entry stamp at the San Marino State Tourism Office—perfect for passport collectors—details on the Visit San Marino Tourist Office page.

Staying More Than 30 Days

• Tourists may remain up to 30 days without formalities.
• Longer stays (study, work, family) require a “permit of stay” from the Gendarmerie under Law no. 142/2011; see the San Marino Gendarmerie permit information.
• You must register with the police if you plan to work or study; procedures are outlined by the Ministry of Interior of San Marino.

ETIAS Impact from 2026

Starting in Q4 2026, visa-exempt travelers to Schengen countries will need an approved ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering Italy—and by extension, before reaching San Marino, according to ETIASVisa.com.

On-the-Ground Advice

Here are a few quick pointers to make your visit smoother:

• Register with the Gendarmerie if your stay exceeds 30 days
• Carry proof of travel insurance covering medical emergencies; see the WHO Travel Health topics for recommendations
• San Marino ranks among the world’s safest tourist spots, with a crime index of 17.86, per Numbeo’s crime rankings

Your Republic, Your Rules

San Marino may feel borderless, but its independence means you follow Italian entry rules and San Marino’s own visitor regulations. Now you know all the steps—from obtaining the right visa or permit and crossing the seamless border to snagging that unique passport stamp and registering for long stays. Safe travels as you explore this timeless hilltop republic!