CPHI Worldwide 2026 is scheduled for 6 to 8 October 2026 at Fiera Milano, Italy. CPHI is the world’s largest pharmaceutical exhibition, held with co-located zones for ingredients, contract services (CDMO), machinery, packaging and analytical services.
Indian professionals travelling to attend generally need a Schengen Business Visa (short-stay, Type C) for Italy. A confirmed trade-visitor registration and an invitation or confirmation letter from the organiser or an Italian business partner support the application.
The event
About CPHI Worldwide 2026 (Milan)
CPHI brings together the pharmaceutical supply chain — active ingredient and intermediate manufacturers, excipient suppliers, contract development and manufacturing organisations, and machinery, packaging and testing companies — with buyers from generic and innovator pharma companies worldwide. The event moves between European cities each year.
India is one of the world’s largest suppliers of pharmaceutical ingredients and generic medicines. For Indian API and formulation companies, CPHI is the single most important annual meeting point with international buyers, partners and regulatory-facing service providers.
Plan the visit
Date and venue
Fiera Milano
Rho, Milan, Italy
CPHI Worldwide changes host city each year; the 2026 edition is in Milan. Confirm the exact halls and daily opening hours on the official CPHI website before booking travel.
Across the show floor
What visitors can explore
Active ingredients (APIs)
Generic and specialty active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediates.
Finished dosage & contract manufacturing
CDMO and CMO services for finished formulations.
Excipients & formulation
Excipients, delivery systems and formulation technology.
Packaging, machinery & services
Primary packaging, processing machinery, testing and regulatory services.
Product groups reflect the show’s published profile and can change between editions. Check the official website for the confirmed hall plan and exhibitor directory.
Business value
Why Indian businesses should attend
Meet international pharma buyers, partners and service providers face-to-face, compare ingredients, services and pricing, and progress supply and partnership conversations that are difficult to advance remotely.
CPHI also gives Indian pharma businesses a clear read on global demand — supply-chain diversification, quality and regulatory expectations, and the growth of contract manufacturing and specialty ingredients.
Before you fly
How to register
- 1
Register online
Register as a trade visitor on the official CPHI website with your professional and company details, and save your confirmation or e-badge.
- 2
Request a letter for your visa file
Where the organiser offers a visa-support or invitation-letter service for registered visitors, request it early and keep it with your application documents.
- 3
Carry business identification
Bring your passport, registration confirmation, an employer covering letter and business cards to the venue.
For Indian passport holders
Schengen Business Visa for CPHI Worldwide 2026 (Milan)
Italy is part of the Schengen Area, so Indian business visitors apply for a Schengen Business Visa (short-stay, Type C) through the country’s mission in India or its authorised visa partner. Build a consistent file and apply early — appointment slots can be limited around major fairs.
Commonly required documents
- Passport valid at least 3 months beyond the trip, with 2 blank pages
- Completed Schengen visa application form
- Recent Schengen-specification photographs
- Expo ticket or registration confirmation
- Invitation or confirmation letter from the organiser or a business partner
- Indian employer’s covering letter and company registration proof
- Confirmed flight reservation and hotel booking
- Travel medical insurance covering the Schengen Area (minimum €30,000)
- Recent bank statements, salary slips and income-tax returns
An invitation letter and expo registration support an application but do not guarantee approval, and processing times are not fixed. The final decision rests with the Schengen country’s authorities.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
Which visa do I need to attend CPHI Worldwide from India?+
For the 2026 edition in Milan, Indian professionals attending for trade purposes apply for a Schengen Business Visa (short-stay, Type C) for Italy. CPHI moves country each year, so check the host country and visa requirements for future editions.
Can the organiser provide a visa invitation letter?+
The organiser commonly provides an invitation or registration letter to confirmed international trade visitors and exhibitors. Check the current process on the official CPHI website.
Is CPHI Worldwide open to the general public?+
No. It is a trade-only event for pharmaceutical industry professionals.
Does expo registration guarantee visa approval?+
No. Registration and invitation documents support the file, but the Italian authorities make the final decision.
How early should I apply?+
Apply as soon as travel is confirmed. Schengen applications can usually be lodged up to six months ahead, and appointment slots fill quickly before major fairs.
