Determine the kind of visa required for your stay. The Italian government's website "Do you need a visa?" is a good resource for people trying to decide the visa that best suits their needs.
Obtain and complete the visa application for the visa you choose. This application can be found once you've entered your information onto the "Do you need a visa" site, and will have complete instructions on how to fill out the application and the documentation you will need to supplement it, as well as any fees required.
Contact the Italian consulate in Boston to reserve an appointment to present your application. As of January 2011, the visa office is open from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, Monday through Friday, and can be reached at 617-722-9201, extension 10.
Book your appointment, and appear at the visa office, no more than 90 days prior to your visit to Italy. Bring both originals and photocopies of all required documentation, along with the required fee.
