From Facebook Chat to Life in Italy
Ada never imagined that a simple comment on a Facebook post would change her life forever. It all started in a cultural Facebook group for Africans in Europe. There, she met Luca — an Italian man with a passion for languages and global connection.
What began as casual interaction soon grew into something deeper. Within nine months, Ada not only found love but also obtained a marriage visa in Italy, after a long but meaningful journey that involved trust, documentation, and patience.
This article tells the full story of how a genuine online relationship led to a legal visa — and what it means for other Nigerians dreaming of joining a partner in Europe.
How They Met: From Facebook to Forever
In 2023, Ada joined a Facebook group called “Africans in Europe – Language and Culture Exchange.” Her goal was to learn from others who had migrated successfully.
Luca replied to her post about learning Italian. They started chatting, and that conversation grew into regular interaction through Messenger and WhatsApp.
They spent weeks getting to know each other:
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Talking about culture, family, and long-term goals
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Having video calls almost daily
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Sharing pictures and stories about their lives
Tips for Starting a Genuine International Relationship
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Join moderated, niche Facebook groups related to travel, study, or cultural exchange
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Use video calls early to verify identity
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Never send money or personal documents too soon
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Be honest about your intentions and take time to build trust
Building the Relationship
After six months of consistent communication, Luca decided to visit Ada in Nigeria. His visit proved their connection was real.
During that trip:
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He met Ada’s family and stayed in Lagos
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They traveled briefly to Accra, Ghana
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They began planning how to build a life together
The relationship evolved from friendship to serious commitment based on:
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Emotional support
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Mutual respect
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Shared future plans
Planning the Wedding and Preparing for the Marriage Visa
They agreed to marry in Italy, but first, Luca had to invite Ada officially. He wrote a formal letter, and she applied for a short-stay visa (Schengen Tourist Visa).
Once in Italy, they had a civil wedding in Florence, witnessed by Luca’s family and a few friends.
Required Documents for Nigerians to Marry in Italy
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Nigerian birth certificate (translated into Italian and legalized)
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Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage from Nigerian registry
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Valid passport and visa
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Proof of residence and income of the Italian spouse
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Single status affidavit
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Identity documents and passport photos
These documents must be legalized at the Italian embassy and translated by an official translator.
Applying for the Spouse Visa and the Waiting Period
After the wedding, Ada returned to Nigeria and began the application for a family reunification visa — commonly called a marriage visa for Italy.
Step-by-Step: Marriage Visa in Italy for Nigerians
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Luca applied for the Nulla Osta (authorization) through the Italian immigration office
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He submitted the marriage certificate, income documentation, and housing proof
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The Nulla Osta was approved in about 60 days
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Ada scheduled a visa appointment at the Italian Embassy in Abuja
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During her interview, she submitted:
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Wedding photos
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Chat and video call history
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Travel records and proof of visits
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After five months of processing, she received a Type D family visa
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She moved to Italy in May 2024
Total timeline from wedding to visa approval: 9 months
A Story That Inspires
Ada is now living in Italy with her husband. She’s learning the language, applying for her residence permit renewal, and adjusting to life in Rome.
Her journey proves that:
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A real online relationship can lead to marriage
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With proper planning, you can migrate legally to Europe
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Documentation, trust, and time are essential
If you’re a Nigerian considering a similar path, this story shows that it’s not a fantasy — it’s a real possibility, as long as your relationship is legitimate and well-documented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a marriage visa without meeting my partner in person?
No. Italian immigration authorities require in-person meetings and legal marriage, supported by strong evidence like travel records and photos.
What does the embassy consider in a marriage visa application?
They examine:
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Authenticity of the relationship
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Financial stability of the Italian spouse
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Proper documentation
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Interview responses and communication history
Do I need a lawyer?
No, but hiring a lawyer or immigration consultant can help avoid mistakes, especially with translations and document preparation.
How much does it cost to marry in Italy?
Estimated costs include:
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Civil wedding fees: €100–€300
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Document translation and legalization: €200–€600
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Visa application fee: around €116
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Travel and accommodation: varies
Can I apply for Italian citizenship?
Yes. After 2 years of marriage while living in Italy (or 1 year if you have children together), you may apply for citizenship by marriage.
