Italy travel restrictions
Airlines Updates | Published on 18.01.2021 Published on 15.11.2020 Published on 09.11.2020 Published on 02.11.2020 22.10.2020 Alitalia during the month of November 2020 schedules following International routes, effective 25OCT20 – 30NOV20. As of 21OCT20, some of the frequencies listed below will also be maintained in the first half of December. Additional changes remain possible. Milan Linate – Amsterdam 7 weekly E175 20.10.2020 easyJet in winter 2020/21 season is closing 2 Italian bases on seasonal basis, impacting operations at Naples and Venice. Planned adjustment, based on the airline’s web booking system up to 18OCT20, as follows. Frequency reduction during the period of 25OCT20 – 17DEC20 (selected routes will see reductions from 03NOV20): Following routes will continue to be served during winter 2020/21 season: Following service cancelled between 25OCT20 – 17DEC20 (selected routes cancelled from 03NOV20): Following routes cancelled for entire winter season: 20.10.2020 Volotea in winter 2020/21 season plans to operate Venice – Naples service, on board Airbus A319 aircraft. Operational frequency varies during winter season. 19NOV20 – 04DEC20 Day x236 Following schedule is effective 21DEC20 – 11JAN21. V71621 VCE1400 – 1520NAP 319 D Service operates daily in summer 2021 season, effective 30MAR21. Published on 12.10.2020 Published on 08.10.2020 Published on 07.10.2020 Published on 01.10.2020 Published on 28.09.2020 15.09.2020 Alitalia in recent inventory update closed reservation for service at Milan Malpensa, for travel between 01OCT20 and 27MAR21. The closure of reservation impacts following routes. Milan Malpensa – New York JFK 5-7 weekly (Flights available for reservation on/after 01MAR21, as of 14SEP20) Published on 09.09.2020 Published on 28.08.2020 Published on 24.08.2020 19.08.2020 Alitalia in the last few days filed inventory changes regarding its Intercontinental operation, for Northern winter 2020/21 season. Latest update as of 18AUG20 sees the airline closing reservations on selected routes. Additional changes such as re-opening reservation, remains likely. Milan Malpensa – Tokyo Narita Reservation closed 25OCT20 – 27MAR21, 4 weekly A330 11.08.2020 Volotea in the last few weeks revised planned new routes for summer 2020 season. Due to various issues, the airline has delayed planned service launch, including certain routes being postponed to summer 2021 season. Latest adjustment as of 07AUG20 as follows. Bari – Kefallinia eff 07JUL21 1 weekly 717 (Previous plan: 08JUL20 – 30SEP20) Previously reported new routes (some with revised launch dates): Due to various travel restrictions, last minute modification may occur. Selected routes will see variation of weekly frequency on selected week. Milan Linate – Alghero 21 weekly 29.07.2020 Air Dolomiti during the month of August 2020 schedules following service, on board Embraer E195 aircraft. Information listed below is based on OAG schedules updated on 26JUL20. Bari – Munich 2 weekly 27.07.2020 Alitalia in the last few days filed inventory changes for Intercontinental service, between 01SEP20 and 24OCT20. Planned operation as of 26JUL20, based on available flights for reservation, as follows. Additional changes remain highly possible, in particular with flights to North Africa. Milan Malpensa – New York JFK 1 daily A330 Published on 19.07.2020 Published on 14.07.2020 Published on 11.07.2020 Published on 10.07.2020 07.07.2020 Italian carrier Neos starting this month gradually restores scheduled operation. Based on OAG schedules listing as of 03JUL20, planned operation for July and August 2020 as follows. Various travel restrictions will impact the airline’s planned operation, in particular on Inter-continental routes. Short-Haul network Inter-Continental network Blu Express this month is resuming scheduled service, initially on short-haul routes with Boeing 737 aircraft. As of 03JUL20, the airline’s operation calls for 87 weekly departure from Italy on 38 routes, instead of 150 weekly departure on 46 routes (Excluding domestic). Planned operation for July and August 2020 as follows, and is likely to be impacted by various travel restrictions. Ancona – Tirana eff 04JUL20 2 weekly (4 weekly from 19JUL20) Domestic service includes the following: 17.06.2020 Alitalia has outlined planned operation for the month of July 2020, where the airline restores various European service from Milan Malpensa. Additional routes from Rome is also restored, including service to North Africa. Planned operation as of 12JUN20 as follows. Additional changes remain likely in the next few days. Milan Malpensa – Alghero 14 weekly Published on 16.06.2020 Published on 12.06.2020 Published on 11.06.2020 Published on 10.06.2020 Air Dolomiti returns to Frankfurt and Munich
03.06.2020 Alitalia in the last few days filed additional changes to its planned operation in June 2020. As of 31MAY20, planned operation from 01JUN20 to 30JUN20 as follows. Milan Malpensa – Alghero 2 daily A319 Published on 22.05.2020 Published on 21.05.2020 Published on 20.05.2020 |
Full Restrictions | |
Open for travel from Italy | |
Crossing Rules | Entry restrictions for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in Austria Entry restrictions Ban entry for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in Brazil Ban entry for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in United Kingdom Home/self isolation for passengers who arrive from or have been in Australia, Japan, Korea (Rep.), New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, Thailand Home/self isolation for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in Brazil Quarantine is possible for passengers who arrive from or have been in Andorra, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland Home/self isolation for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in Austria Home/self isolation for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in United Kingdom |
Movement restrictions | National movement restrictions: Partially bannedRestrictive measures mandatory between 05 November 2020 to 03 December 2020 On 3rd November 2020 a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. On 24 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. It is recommended to reduce to the minimum any movement, with public or private means of transport, in general; after 23:00, until 5:00, only movements due to urgency, work, study, health reasons are allowed and they have to be certified using a dedicated form in case of request by the public authorities. The closure to the public of urban centres at risk of gatherings after 9 p.m. may be ordered, without prejudice to the possibility of access and runoff of lawfully open shops and private homes. On 18 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. Curfew at 9 p.m. in the nightlife areas where gatherings take place. Village festivals and fairs are forbidden, only national or international exhibitions are allowed. Within public administrations, meetings are held remotely, unless there are justified reasons. The decree recommends “strongly” that private meetings should also be held remotely. On 13 October 2020 a new Decree was published by the national Government. As of 14 October, this new act made the use of face masks compulsory in all indoor spaces (with the only exception of private homes, where a strong recommendation is however made, to wear face-masks in presence of persons not living in the same house) and in all outdoor areas in which a complete isolation cannot be guaranteed (exemptions from this obligation are for children younger than 6 years old, patients with specific diseases, people practicing outdoor sport activities while keeping the social distance of 2m). On 7 October 2020 the ongoing measures to contain Covid19 spreading were extended until 15 October and the declaration of national emergency conditions was extended until 31 January 2021. As of 7 October 2020, face maks are compulsory at all times, outdoor and indoor on the entire national territory. UPDATE September 2020: on 7 September a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 October 2020. The use of face masks is compulsory in public indoor spaces, on public transport and in any situation in which the minimum distance of 1m among individuals cannot be ensured. Children under age of 6 and disabled people are exempt from this measure. The access to public parks and playgrounds is allowed, provided that the minimum distance of 1m among individuals is respected. For sports activities, the interpersonal minimum distance is 2 m. All other activities and public areas, including public beaches, are allowed provided that the regional specific guidelines are followed. UPDATE August 2020: on 7 August a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 September 2020. The use of face masks is compulsory in public indoor spaces, on public transport and in any situation in which the minimum distance of 1m among individuals cannot be ensured. Children under age of 6 and disabled people are exempt from this measure. UPDATE 3 June 2020: there are no more limitations to the movements within the Country, as long as the measures to contain the contagion are respected (e.g. wear a face-mask indoor, keep a distance of 1 m from other individuals, no mass gatherings allowed). UPDATE 18 May 2020: movements within the same Region are now free, there is no need to justify any movement anymore within the regional boundaries. With the National Act (DPCM) of 26 April 2020 the national movements are only partially banned since it is possible to move (only) within the boundaries of the Region (Admin level 1) for special reasons, i.e. work, health, specific needs (e.g. grocery, pharmacies,…), included (as a new element intoduced with this Act), the need of visiting relatives, as long as big gatherings are avoided, the minimum distance of 1m is assured and face-masks are weared. This Act also lift the compulsory closure of parks, villas, public gardens under the condition that big gatherings are avoided, the minimum distance of 1m is assured and face-masks are weared. Similarly, (only) individual sports/motoric activities are allowed, under the same condition of keeping a minimum distance from other people. No recreational activities (e.g. parties, exhibitions, …) or sports events (e.g competitions) are allowed, either indoor or outdoor, nor in private or public areas. Athtlets training sessions are allowed only for those who are recognized as “national interest athlets” by the national sport authorities, to train for Olympic games and the national and international future competitions. As of 5 April 2020 (until 13 April), within Lombardia region, it is forbidden to leave the house without a facial mask. International movement restrictions: Partially bannedRestrictive measures mandatory between 05 November 2020 to 03 December 2020 On 3rd November 2020 a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. On 24 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. The new decree extended the measures adopted with the previous one until 24 November 2020. On 13 October 2020 a new Decree was published by the national Government. As of 14 October the rules explained in this new act are valid for all travellers. Different rules are applying for different countries, depending in which of the 6 different lists of coutries the considered country is mentioned. The more strict rules are for those coutries to/from which travels are allowed only for work/health/urgency reasons or for reentering in the place of usual living. For other countries, a 14 days-long quarantene is requested, even if the individuals are asymptomatic; for others, there is an obligation of declaration in terms of countries of provenience and so on so forth. On 7 October 2020 the ongoing measures to contain Covid19 spreading were extended until 15 October and the declaration of national emergency conditions was extended until 31 January 2021. UPDATE September 2020: on 7 September a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 October 2020. The list of Coutries for which there are compulsory measures to be respected (e.g. compulsory quarantene for 14 days and/or compulsory testing) is specified in the Decree, according to 6 different groups of countries. In particular, it is forbidden to enter in Italy from: Armenia, Bahrein, Bangladesh, Bosnia Erzegovina, Brasile, Cile, Kuwait, Macedonia del Nord, Moldova, Oman, Panama, Perù, Repubblica Dominicana, Kosovo, Montenegro, Colombia. The list is susceptible to changes and updates. UPDATE 12 August: on 12 August 2020 the Italian Ministry of Health published new urgent measures to contain and manage the current health emergency. These measures require people who have stayed or transited through Croatia, Greece, Spain or Malta in the fourteen days prior to entering Italian territory, to inform the competent local health authorities of their arrival. This Ordinance complements the provisions of the Decree of the President of the Council of Ministers of 7 August 2020. In particular, the persons concerned must either: UPDATE August: UPDATE July: UPDATE 3 June 2020: citizens from the Schengen area and from the UK can access the country without quarantene obligation. National act (DPCM) of 26 April 2020: whoever enters the country out of necessity (e.g. work, health reasons), even if asintomatic, is obliged to communicate their arrival at the local health station and to stay isolated in thier residence for 14 days. This is not applicable to: personnel of the public transport operator; health operators coming to the country to exercise their profession; cross-border workers. Specific exceptions are also made for short-term transit/staying in the coutry (up to 72 hours). Reference acts: DPCM of 10 April 2020; Ministry of Transport Act of 28 March 2020. |
Flight Restrictions | published 30.10.2020 Entry restrictions for passengers who arrive from or have been in Croatia, France (Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, Corsica, Hauts-de-France, Ile-de-France, New Aquitaine, Occitania, Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur regions), Greece, Malta, Spain Entry restrictions for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in Belgium, Czechia, France, Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom Entry restrictions Flights from/to Algeria, Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Kosovo, Kuwait, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Oman, Panama, Peru, Serbia are suspended |
Quarantine | Self-isolation at own accommodation-subject to category. As of 10.12.2020, travellers who, in the previous 14 days, stayed in or transited through an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country and UK, (list C acording to the Prime Ministerial Decree of 3 December 2020), are required to provide a certificate of a negative COVID-19 test performed up to 48 hours before their arrival in Italy. People who do not present the negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to a mandatory health surveillance and 14-days fiduciary isolation. There are some exceptions to the requirement for a molecular or antigenic test, in the following cases:
Furthermore, travellers who arrive in Italy between 21.12.2020 and 6.1.2021 or after 6.1.2021 for reasons other than necessity and who, in the previous 14 days, stayed or transited through an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country and UK, (list C acording to the Prime Ministerial Decree of 3 December 2020), are subject to a mandatory health surveillance and 14-days fiduciary isolation. Moreover, travellers coming from these countries are obliged to immediately inform the Prevention Department of the relevant local Health Authority upon their entry into the Italian territory. As far as Third-countries are concerned, travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Uruguay are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism). For travellers coming from Third-countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency. In all the described cases, travellers have to:
Individual Regions may require those coming from some foreign states or territories to comply with particular obligations. Before leaving, it is recommended to check any additional regional provision, by contacting the Region directly or by visiting the respective websites. For information on how to perform a swab, you can call the Ministry of Health at the following numbers: from abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385 To know more: |
Insurance | |
Certification | COVID-19 negative certification required for entering the country. A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required. The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period. |
Vaccination | Yellow fever (2019) |
Shop and Events | Non-essential shops closure: Partially closedRestrictive measures mandatory between 05 November 2020 to 03 December 2020 On 3rd November 2020 a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. On 24 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. The new rules adopted at national level foresee the following: On 18 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. The new decree foresees that the activities of catering services – bars, pubs, restaurants, ice-cream and pastry shops – are allowed from 5 a.m. until midnight with consumption at the table, and with a maximum of six people per table, and until 6 p.m. without consumption at the table. The restaurant must display a sign at the entrance of the restaurant with the maximum number of people admitted at the same time. On 13 October 2020 a new Decree was published by the national Government, with new rules valid as of 14 October until 13 November 2020. Catering activities (e.g. restaurants, pubs/bars, ice-cream/pastry shops,…) are open only until 24:00 for customers sitting at the tables and only until 21:00 for standing customers. All retails shops are obliged to guarantee the social distance of 1 m among customers. Activities that take place in dance halls, discos and clubs are suspended, outdoors or indoors. On 7 October 2020 the ongoing measures to contain Covid19 spreading were extended until 15 October and the declaration of national emergency conditions was extended until 31 January 2021. UPDATE September: on 7 September a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 October 2020. UPDATE August: on 7 August a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 September 2020. All activities are open and allowed, as long as the contagion containment measures are respected, such as wearing face masks in indoor public places/public transport and in any other situation in which the minimum distance of 1m cannot among individuals be respected. UPDATE June: from June 15 summer centers for children, games rooms, betting rooms, bingo halls, as well as SPAs, cultural and social centers opened again. Performances open to the public, theaters, concert halls, cinemas and other spaces are also resumed but with some cautions/precautions. All activities that take place in dance halls, discos, and similar venues -both outdoors and indoors- are still suspended. UPDATE 18 May 2020: as of 18 May all shops can open again, provided that they respect the social distancing measures foreseen. Museums can open again, religious rituals are allowed and also static public demonstrations. In all cases, specific social distancing measures are to be respected (e.g. minimum 1 m distance among individuals). As of the 20th of May, driving tests for driving licences will start again. Gym, training centres, SPAs will stay closed until 25 May 2020, when they may be opened again, provided that the epidemiological situation will not become worst. Social and cultural meeting centres are still closed. With national act (DPCM) of 26 April 2020, the following is decided: Act “DPCM 10 April 2020”: as of 14 April 2020 some shops, which were closed until now, will be allowed to open again (bookstores, stationers and baby and children’s clothing stores). Forestry activities, the wood industry and computer production are also allowed to restart thier activities. However, some Italian regions decided not to implement this new opening permissions. Events stop: Partially bannedRestrictive measures mandatory between 05 November 2020 to 03 December 2020 On 3rd November 2020 a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. On 24 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. The new rules adopted at national level foresee the following: On 18 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. The decree provides that contact sports may only be carried out for individual and team sports recognised as being of national or regional interest. Basic amateur sports, schools and introductory training activities related to contact sports are allowed only in individual form and there is no green light for competitions and competitions. All competitions, contests and activities related to contact sports of a recreational-amateur nature are suspended. Gyms and swimming pools were given a week to comply with safety protocols. Then decisions will be made on closures for those who do not comply with the protocols. Within public administrations, meetings are held remotely, unless there are justified reasons. The decree recommends “strongly” that private meetings should also be held remotely. On 13 October 2020 a new Decree was published by the national Government, with new rules valid as of 14 October until 13 November 2020. Only static public demonstrations are allowed, provided that the social distance of 1 m among individuals is respected. Cinemas, theaters, concert halls can operate only if they pre-assign distanced seats and with maximum number of people equal to 200 for indoor events and 1000 for outdoor ones. All gathering and parties are not allowed, indoor and outdoor. Only exceptions are for civil and religious ceremonies, with a maximum number of participants of 30 people. All contact sports for amateurs are suspended, only contact sports activities organized by sport clubs and/or for professionels are allowed. Public for football competitions in the stadiums is allowed up to 15% capacity of the facility and, in any case, never gathering more than 1000 spectators outdoor and 200 indoor (while respecting the social distance of 1 m and measuring the temperature at the entrance). On 7 October 2020 the ongoing measures to contain Covid19 spreading were extended until 15 October and the declaration of national emergency conditions was extended until 31 January 2021. UPDATE September: on 7 September a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 October 2020. UPDATE August: on 7 August a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 September 2020. All activities are open and allowed, as long as the contagion containment measures are respected, such as wearing face masks in indoor public places/public transport and in any other situation in which the minimum distance of 1m cannot among individuals be respected. UPDATE June: as of 15 June performances open to the public, theaters, concert halls, cinemas and other spaces -also outdoors- are resumed but with some cautions/precautions. All activities that take place in dance halls, discotheques and similar places both outdoors and indoors remain suspended. From 12 June, sporting events and competitions resumed, behind closed doors or outdoor, without the presence of the public in compliance with the safety protocols issued by the respective sports federations. As of 25 June 2020, contact sports may also take place in the Regions and Autonomous Provinces which, in agreement with the Ministry of Health and the delegated government authority for sport, have previously verified the compatibility of the above activities with the epidemiological situation in their respective territories. UPDATE 18 May 2020: as of 18 May museums can open again, religious rituals are allowed and also static public demonstrations. In all cases, specific social distancing measures are to be respected (e.g. minimum 1 m distance among individuals). As of the 15 of June, cinemas and theaters can open again, provided that they respect precise rules (e.g. pre-assigned and spaced seats respecting the interpersonal distance of at least one meter for both staff and spectators). With the national Act (DPCM) of 26 April 2020, all events and shows which forsee a public (e.g. cinemas, theaters, pubs, dancing schools, discos…)are still banned, included private partyies in private areas. No recreational activities (e.g. parties, exhibitions, …) or sports events (e.g competitions) are allowed, either indoor or outdoor, nor in private or public areas. Athtlets training sessions are allowed only for those who are recognized as “national interest athlets” by the national sport authorities, to train for Olympic games and the national and international future competitions. |
Schools/Univercity closure | Schools/Univ. closure: OpenRestrictive measures mandatory between 05 November 2020 to 03 December 2020 On 3rd November 2020 a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. On 24 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. For schools, the foreseen measures are regarding the secondary schools, where an increase in digital didactics up to 75% is decided for the entire national territory. It is possible to modulate pupils’ entry and exit times. On 18 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. For schools, the foreseen measures are regarding the secondary schools, where flexible forms in the organization of didactics are recommended: increase in digital didactics, push to the afternoon shifts and entrance from 9 am. On 13 October 2020 a new Decree was published by the national Government. As of 14 October, this new act made the use of face masks compulsory in all indoor spaces (with the only exception of private homes, where a strong recommendation is however made, to wear face-masks in presence of persons not living in the same house) and in all outdoor areas in which a complete isolation cannot be guaranteed. The activities outside the education premises have been suspended. On 7 October 2020 the ongoing measures to contain Covid19 spreading were extended until 15 October and the declaration of national emergency conditions was extended until 31 January 2021. On 7 September a new Decree of the President of Council of Ministers was issued, which extended the ongoing contagion containment measures until 7 October 2020. Education activities started in presence at the beginning of the school year 2020/2021, according to the various education level’s calendars. In most cases education started on 14 September, with a delayed start date in some areas (e.g. on 24 September). Specific contagion containment measures are to be ensured in all education facilities. |
Other | Other: partially closed/partially cancelledRestrictive measures mandatory between 05 November 2020 to 03 December 2020 On 3rd November 2020 a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. On 24 October a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. On 18 October 2020 a new Decree introduced further measures to contain the ongoing second wave of infection by Covid 19. The measures there decided are valid from 19 October until 13 November 2020. On 13 October 2020 a new Decree was published by the national Government, with new rules valid as of 14 October until 13 November 2020. On 7 October 2020 the ongoing measures to contain Covid19 spreading were extended until 15 October and the declaration of national emergency conditions was extended until 31 January 2021. The national emergency status has been extended until 15 October 2020. LAW DECREE 25 March 2020, n. 19: this new law opened the possibility, for the Italian regions, to adopt at their level further and more strict restrictive measures, if needed in their own territory, in addition to the ones valid at national level. This will be decided on the basis of the epidemiolgical developments at their level. This is valid as from March 26, 2020 until (for the time being) July 31, 2020 (deadline of the current “Declaration of emergency status at national level”). |
Full Restrictions
Italy Latest News: Government extends COVID-19 restrictions until 6 April (WIR, 03.03.2021). Government tightens COVID-19 restrictions in several regions (Reuters, 27.02.2021). General strike expected to affect air, rail, road travel on 7, 8 March (Milano Today, 22.02.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions until 27 March (Reuters, 22.02.2021).
The latest Italian decree in effect from 6 March – 6 April 2021, provides International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists:
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study, or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for ALL persons entering Italy. Exceptions apply for personnel of diplomatic missions or international organizations.
For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this here from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
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Internal Restrictions:
*The latest Italian decree in effect from 6 March – 6 April 2021, provides:
• Ban on interregional travel: The ban on interregional travel remains until 27 March 2021 (except for work, health, or other urgent reasons);
• White Zones: Restrictive measures for Yellow zones will cease to apply in White Zones, but national containment measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing will remain in effect. Events that create gatherings continue to be suspended (fairs, conferences, night clubs, and audience presence in sports stadiums). See below summary of the full DPCM for further details;
• Schools:
o In Red Zones, in-person teaching activities are suspended for every grade and level from 6 March, including preschool and elementary levels; in-person teaching activities may only continue for students with disabilities and special needs;
o In Orange and Yellow Zones, regions may suspend in-person teaching activities in areas where stricter containment measures have been adopted, areas where there have been more than 250 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, or in the event that the epidemiological situation significantly worsens.
• Museums, theatres, cinemas, and sport facilities:
o In Yellow Zones: museums may operate only Monday-Friday but from 27 March, they may also open on weekends and holidays. From 27 March, theatres and cinemas may reopen with pre-assigned seating and at no more than 25% of capacity.
o Gyms, swimming pools, and ski facilities remain closed.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): Takeaway is allowed after 18:00 in all zones.
• Services to individuals: In Red Zones, services to individuals such as hairdressers, barbers, and beauty salons must close.
• International travel: Experimental “COVID-tested” flights have been expanded to additional countries. Also, persons who have been in Brazil in the last 14 days may enter Italy to return to their residence or the residence of underage children.
However, to ease your understanding of the full list of measures applicable throughout Italy and in the different color zones, a summary of the entire decree is below:
Measures applicable in the entire country:
• Masks: It is mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Ban on interregional travel: The ban on interregional travel remains until 27 March 2021 (except for work, health, or other urgent reasons)
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Contact tracing: The app Immuni must be used by health authorities for contact tracing
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
Measures applicable in different color zones:
• White Zones: Zones classified as having a ‘low’ level of risk have the above “measures applicable in the entire country” in effect and:
• Any activities must conform to relevant safety and hygiene protocols and guidelines detailed in the annexes of this DPCM
• Events that create gatherings continue to be suspended: fairs, conferences, activities in dance halls and nightclubs or similar whether indoors or outdoors, and audience presence at sports events
• A permanent technical committee within the Ministry of Health has been established to monitor the effects of easing containment measures and establish any potential transitional or intermediate containment measures
• The below measures applicable to Yellow Zones cease to apply
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the following measures in place:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work, health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here . In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Visiting other people: Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. However, it is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Religious ceremonies and places of worship: Access to places of worship is allowed so long as social distancing of at least 1 meter is guaranteed.
• Conferences and other events may only take place through remote modalities; it is strongly recommended that private meetings only take place remotely.
• Museums, exhibits, and cultural centers: may operate only Monday-Friday, excluding holidays. However, from 27 March, they may also open on weekends and holidays, with access being granted through online or telephone reservations made at least one day in advance. Domenica al Museo – the service that grants free entry to public cultural landmarks and institutions on the first Sunday of the month – remains suspended.
· Cinemas, theaters, and concert halls: are all closed. From 27 March, these venues may reopen with pre-assigned seating and at no more than 25% of capacity.
Dance halls, night clubs, social centers: are closed, whether indoors or outdoors.
• Parties: are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies.
• Festivals, exhibitions, and similar events are prohibited
• Outdoor exercise: is allowed and may be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are prohibited.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas are closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Ski facilities are closed
• Amusement parks, arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos are closed (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Schools:
• Nurseries, primary, and middle schools: will continue to operate with in-person teaching activities. Masks must be worn by all except children under the age of 6.
• Secondary schools (high schools): must guarantee in-person teaching activities for between 50-75% of students.
• School trips are suspended
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets are closed on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, dry-cleaners, laundromats, newsstands, bookshops, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs or plants inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): may offer table service between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. Between 18:00-22:00 takeaway continues to be allowed, but the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited at or near the establishment or in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors). Takeaway services not allowed from 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars. Delivery services are allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have Yellow Zone measures in place in addition to the below measures:
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition,
• Visiting people: until 27 March 2021, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Cinemas, theaters, and concert halls are all closed.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the highest level of risk have Yellow Zone measures in place in addition to the below measures:
• All movements are prohibited to/from and within these zones, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Outdoor exercise: may be carried out on an individual basis in the vicinity of one’s home, respecting an interpersonal distance of at least 1 meter. Persons not engaging in sports activities must wear a mask. All sports centers and clubs are closed.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Cinemas, theaters, and concert halls are all closed.
• Schools: Nurseries/ kindergartens are suspended and all other grades and levels must switch to distance learning arrangements.
• Commercial activities are suspended with the exception of essential services, including: businesses selling foodstuffs, places selling computers or telecommunications equipment, gas stations, hardware stores, places selling toiletries, bookstores, sports equipment stores, baby clothes stores, pet supply stores, newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies.
• Markets are closed with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs or plants.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Services to individuals are suspended, with the exception of laundromats, dry-cleaners, and funeral services.
• Remote working is required where possible; employers must limit presence of personnel, guaranteeing that exclusively activities that cannot be delayed are handled in-person.
Italy Latest News: Government extends COVID-19 restrictions until 6 April (WIR, 03.03.2021). Government tightens COVID-19 restrictions in several regions (Reuters, 27.02.2021). General strike expected to affect air, rail, road travel on 7, 8 March (Milano Today, 22.02.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions until 27 March (Reuters, 22.02.2021).
The latest Italian decree in effect from 6 March – 6 April 2021, provides International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists:
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study, or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for ALL persons entering Italy. Exceptions apply for personnel of diplomatic missions or international organizations.
For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this here from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*The latest Italian decree in effect from 6 March – 6 April 2021, provides:
• Ban on interregional travel: The ban on interregional travel remains until 27 March 2021 (except for work, health, or other urgent reasons);
• White Zones: Restrictive measures for Yellow zones will cease to apply in White Zones, but national containment measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing will remain in effect. Events that create gatherings continue to be suspended (fairs, conferences, night clubs, and audience presence in sports stadiums). See below summary of the full DPCM for further details;
• Schools:
o In Red Zones, in-person teaching activities are suspended for every grade and level from 6 March, including preschool and elementary levels; in-person teaching activities may only continue for students with disabilities and special needs;
o In Orange and Yellow Zones, regions may suspend in-person teaching activities in areas where stricter containment measures have been adopted, areas where there have been more than 250 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, or in the event that the epidemiological situation significantly worsens.
• Museums, theatres, cinemas, and sport facilities:
o In Yellow Zones: museums may operate only Monday-Friday but from 27 March, they may also open on weekends and holidays. From 27 March, theatres and cinemas may reopen with pre-assigned seating and at no more than 25% of capacity.
o Gyms, swimming pools, and ski facilities remain closed.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): Takeaway is allowed after 18:00 in all zones.
• Services to individuals: In Red Zones, services to individuals such as hairdressers, barbers, and beauty salons must close.
• International travel: Experimental “COVID-tested” flights have been expanded to additional countries. Also, persons who have been in Brazil in the last 14 days may enter Italy to return to their residence or the residence of underage children.
However, to ease your understanding of the full list of measures applicable throughout Italy and in the different color zones, a summary of the entire decree is below:
Measures applicable in the entire country:
• Masks: It is mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Ban on interregional travel: The ban on interregional travel remains until 27 March 2021 (except for work, health, or other urgent reasons)
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Contact tracing: The app Immuni must be used by health authorities for contact tracing
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
Measures applicable in different color zones:
• White Zones: Zones classified as having a ‘low’ level of risk have the above “measures applicable in the entire country” in effect and:
• Any activities must conform to relevant safety and hygiene protocols and guidelines detailed in the annexes of this DPCM
• Events that create gatherings continue to be suspended: fairs, conferences, activities in dance halls and nightclubs or similar whether indoors or outdoors, and audience presence at sports events
• A permanent technical committee within the Ministry of Health has been established to monitor the effects of easing containment measures and establish any potential transitional or intermediate containment measures
• The below measures applicable to Yellow Zones cease to apply
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the following measures in place:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work, health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here . In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Visiting other people: Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. However, it is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Religious ceremonies and places of worship: Access to places of worship is allowed so long as social distancing of at least 1 meter is guaranteed.
• Conferences and other events may only take place through remote modalities; it is strongly recommended that private meetings only take place remotely.
• Museums, exhibits, and cultural centers: may operate only Monday-Friday, excluding holidays. However, from 27 March, they may also open on weekends and holidays, with access being granted through online or telephone reservations made at least one day in advance. Domenica al Museo – the service that grants free entry to public cultural landmarks and institutions on the first Sunday of the month – remains suspended.
· Cinemas, theaters, and concert halls: are all closed. From 27 March, these venues may reopen with pre-assigned seating and at no more than 25% of capacity.
Dance halls, night clubs, social centers: are closed, whether indoors or outdoors.
• Parties: are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies.
• Festivals, exhibitions, and similar events are prohibited
• Outdoor exercise: is allowed and may be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are prohibited.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas are closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Ski facilities are closed
• Amusement parks, arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos are closed (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Schools:
• Nurseries, primary, and middle schools: will continue to operate with in-person teaching activities. Masks must be worn by all except children under the age of 6.
• Secondary schools (high schools): must guarantee in-person teaching activities for between 50-75% of students.
• School trips are suspended
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets are closed on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, dry-cleaners, laundromats, newsstands, bookshops, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs or plants inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): may offer table service between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. Between 18:00-22:00 takeaway continues to be allowed, but the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited at or near the establishment or in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors). Takeaway services not allowed from 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars. Delivery services are allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have Yellow Zone measures in place in addition to the below measures:
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition,
• Visiting people: until 27 March 2021, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Cinemas, theaters, and concert halls are all closed.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the highest level of risk have Yellow Zone measures in place in addition to the below measures:
• All movements are prohibited to/from and within these zones, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Outdoor exercise: may be carried out on an individual basis in the vicinity of one’s home, respecting an interpersonal distance of at least 1 meter. Persons not engaging in sports activities must wear a mask. All sports centers and clubs are closed.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Cinemas, theaters, and concert halls are all closed.
• Schools: Nurseries/ kindergartens are suspended and all other grades and levels must switch to distance learning arrangements.
• Commercial activities are suspended with the exception of essential services, including: businesses selling foodstuffs, places selling computers or telecommunications equipment, gas stations, hardware stores, places selling toiletries, bookstores, sports equipment stores, baby clothes stores, pet supply stores, newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies.
• Markets are closed with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs or plants.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Services to individuals are suspended, with the exception of laundromats, dry-cleaners, and funeral services.
• Remote working is required where possible; employers must limit presence of personnel, guaranteeing that exclusively activities that cannot be delayed are handled in-person.
Italy Latest News: Government tightens COVID-19 restrictions in several regions (Reuters, 27.02.2021). General strike expected to affect air, rail, road travel on 7, 8 March (Milano Today, 22.02.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions until 27 March (Reuters, 22.02.2021). Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021. The Italian government approved a new legislative decree which extends the ban on interregional travel until 27 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is in effect from Monday, 1 March. Please note that the ban on interregional travel remains, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. The classifications are as follows:
• White Zones: Zones classified as having a ‘low’ level of risk shed many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones. Only one region has been established as a White Zone: Sardinia.
• The following measures continue to apply in White Zones:
• Masks: It is mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• All other measures cease to apply, unless the region decides to apply stricter measures, including:
• no curfew; food services allowed to operate at all hours; malls, shopping centers, and business parks can open on the weekends; gyms and public pools can reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions can resume; museums and other cultural institutions may operate on weekends and holidays; schools may fully re-open; fairs and markets may resume activities.
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. Two regions have received this classification: Basilicata and Molise. In addition, regions continue to apply the classification to several provinces and towns within their borders. These include: the provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo; the provinces of Siena and Pistoia and the city of Cecina in Tuscany; the towns of Bollate, Viggiù and Mede in Lombardy, the towns of Re, Cavour, Raveggia, Villette, Toceno, Malesco, Santa Maria Maggiore and Druogno in Piedmont, the towns of Carpineto Romano, Colleferro, Monte San Giovanni Campano, Roccagorga, and Torrice in Lazio, the towns of San Cipirello and San Giuseppe Jato in Sicily.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Campania, Lombardy, Emilia Romagna, Marche, Piedmont, Tuscany, Umbria and the autonomous provinces of Trento and Bolzano.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 27 March unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Government tightens COVID-19 restrictions in several regions (Reuters, 27.02.2021). General strike expected to affect air, rail, road travel on 7, 8 March (Milano Today, 22.02.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions until 27 March (Reuters, 22.02.2021). Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021. The Italian government approved a new legislative decree which extends the ban on interregional travel until 27 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is in effect from Monday, 1 March. Please note that the ban on interregional travel remains, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. The classifications are as follows:
• White Zones: Zones classified as having a ‘low’ level of risk shed many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones. Only one region has been established as a White Zone: Sardinia.
• The following measures continue to apply in White Zones:
• Masks: It is mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• All other measures cease to apply, unless the region decides to apply stricter measures, including:
• no curfew; food services allowed to operate at all hours; malls, shopping centers, and business parks can open on the weekends; gyms and public pools can reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions can resume; museums and other cultural institutions may operate on weekends and holidays; schools may fully re-open; fairs and markets may resume activities.
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. Two regions have received this classification: Basilicata and Molise. In addition, regions continue to apply the classification to several provinces and towns within their borders. These include: the provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo; the provinces of Siena and Pistoia and the city of Cecina in Tuscany; the towns of Bollate, Viggiù and Mede in Lombardy, the towns of Re, Cavour, Raveggia, Villette, Toceno, Malesco, Santa Maria Maggiore and Druogno in Piedmont, the towns of Carpineto Romano, Colleferro, Monte San Giovanni Campano, Roccagorga, and Torrice in Lazio, the towns of San Cipirello and San Giuseppe Jato in Sicily.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Campania, Lombardy, Emilia Romagna, Marche, Piedmont, Tuscany, Umbria and the autonomous provinces of Trento and Bolzano.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 27 March unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: General strike expected to affect air, rail, road travel on 7, 8 March (Milano Today, 22.02.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions until 27 March (Reuters, 22.02.2021). Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021. The Italian government approved a new legislative decree which extends the ban on interregional travel until 27 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is in effect from Sunday, 21 February 2021. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are red zones, but several provinces and towns are: the whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the entire province of Perugia and the town of San Venanzo in the province of Terni in Umbria, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, the town of Re in Piedmont, the towns of Bollate, Castrezzato, Mede and Viggiù in Lombardy, the towns of Roccagorga,Colleferro and Carpineto in Lazio, and 28 small towns in Molise.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: the remaining part of Abruzzo, Campania, Emilia Romagna, Liguria, Molise, Tuscany, the remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
Please note that the ban on interregional travel remains at least until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 27 March unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: General strike expected to affect air, rail, road travel on 7, 8 March (Milano Today, 22.02.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions until 27 March (Reuters, 22.02.2021). Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021. The Italian government approved a new legislative decree which extends the ban on interregional travel until 27 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is in effect from Sunday, 21 February 2021. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are red zones, but several provinces and towns are: the whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the entire province of Perugia and the town of San Venanzo in the province of Terni in Umbria, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, the town of Re in Piedmont, the towns of Bollate, Castrezzato, Mede and Viggiù in Lombardy, the towns of Roccagorga,Colleferro and Carpineto in Lazio, and 28 small towns in Molise.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: the remaining part of Abruzzo, Campania, Emilia Romagna, Liguria, Molise, Tuscany, the remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
Please note that the ban on interregional travel remains at least until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From within the EU:
Ireland is implementing the commonly agreed EU “traffic lights” approach to travel restrictions.
Is a coronavirus test required?
Passenger arrivals from ALL countries are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test. The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
You will be asked to show evidence of this negative or ‘not detected’ result before boarding the airplane or ferry from the country you are travelling from, and will be denied boarding if you cannot produce such evidence. Once you arrive in Ireland, you have to provide this evidence to Irish immigration officers.
You should retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
In case of lack of a negative or ‘not detected’ RT-PCR test or a valid exemption, you can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months. You will also be required to take a RT-PCR test after arrival at your own expense.
Children aged 6 and under are exempted.
Is a quarantine required?
A legal requirement to quarantine has been introduced for all travellers (except if your journey originates in Northern Ireland) with very limited exceptions.
This applies for ALL arrivals from 4 February 2021:
- 14-day quarantine period must be undertaken at the address specified on the Passenger Locator Form
- persons who travel from another country to Ireland, and arrive via Northern Ireland, must also observe the mandatory quarantine regime
If you do not fulfil the legal requirement for mandatory quarantine you are committing an offence, and can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months, or both.
You may only leave your place of residence during the quarantine period for unavoidable reasons of an emergency nature to protect a person’s health or welfare, or to leave the State.
You may leave to take a RT-PCR test no less than 5 days after your arrival. If you receive written confirmation that the result of this test is negative/ ‘not detected’ your period of quarantine can end.
You must retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
Passenger Locator Form
If you arrive in Ireland from another country, you must fill in a COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form.
Find out more:
gov.ie – Travelling to Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
*From Third Countries:
If you travel to Ireland from Angola; Botswana; Brazil; Burundi; Cape Verde; the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Lesotho; Malawi; Eswatini; Mauritius; Mozambique; Namibia; Republic of South Africa; Rwanda; Seychelles; Tanzania; United Arab Emirates; Zambia; Zimbabwe:
- A 14-day quarantine period must be undertaken at the address specified on the Passenger Locator Form
- you must complete the full 14 days of quarantine – regardless of whether you have a negative test result
If you do not fulfil the legal requirement for mandatory quarantine you are committing an offence and can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months, or both.
Is a coronavirus test required?
Passenger arrivals from ALL countries are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test. The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
You will be asked to show evidence of this negative or ‘not detected’ result before boarding the airplane or ferry from the country you are travelling from, and will be denied boarding if you cannot produce such evidence. Once you arrive in Ireland, you have to provide this evidence to Irish immigration officers.
You should retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
In case of lack of a negative or ‘not detected’ RT-PCR test or a valid exemption, you can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months. You will also be required to take an RT-PCR test after arrival at your own expense.
Children aged 6 and under are exempted.
Is a quarantine required?
A legal requirement to quarantine has been introduced for all travellers (except if your journey originates in Northern Ireland) with very limited exceptions.
This applies for ALL arrivals from 4 February 2021:
- A 14-day quarantine period must be undertaken at the address specified on the Passenger Locator Form
- persons who travel from another country to Ireland, and arrive via Northern Ireland, must also observe the mandatory quarantine regime
If you do not fulfil the legal requirement for mandatory quarantine you are committing an offence and can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months, or both.
You may only leave your place of residence during the quarantine period for unavoidable reasons of an emergency nature to protect a person’s health or welfare, or to leave the State.
You may leave to take an RT-PCR test no less than 5 days after your arrival. If you receive written confirmation that the result of this test is negative/ ‘not detected’ your period of quarantine can end.
You must retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
Passenger Locator Form
If you arrive in Ireland from another country, you must fill in a COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form.
Find out more:
gov.ie – Travelling to Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 27 March unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: General strike expected to affect air, rail, road travel on 7, 8 March (Milano Today, 22.02.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions until 27 March (Reuters, 22.02.2021). Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021. The Italian government approved a new legislative decree which extends the ban on interregional travel until 27 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is in effect from Sunday, 21 February 2021. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are red zones, but several provinces and towns are: the whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the entire province of Perugia and the town of San Venanzo in the province of Terni in Umbria, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, the town of Re in Piedmont, the towns of Bollate, Castrezzato, Mede and Viggiù in Lombardy, the towns of Roccagorga,Colleferro and Carpineto in Lazio, and 28 small towns in Molise.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: the remaining part of Abruzzo, Campania, Emilia Romagna, Liguria, Molise, Tuscany, the remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
Please note that the ban on interregional travel remains at least until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From within the EU:
Ireland is implementing the commonly agreed EU “traffic lights” approach to travel restrictions.
Is a coronavirus test required?
Passenger arrivals from ALL countries are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test. The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
You will be asked to show evidence of this negative or ‘not detected’ result before boarding the airplane or ferry from the country you are travelling from, and will be denied boarding if you cannot produce such evidence. Once you arrive in Ireland, you have to provide this evidence to Irish immigration officers.
You should retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
In case of lack of a negative or ‘not detected’ RT-PCR test or a valid exemption, you can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months. You will also be required to take a RT-PCR test after arrival at your own expense.
Children aged 6 and under are exempted.
Is a quarantine required?
A legal requirement to quarantine has been introduced for all travellers (except if your journey originates in Northern Ireland) with very limited exceptions.
This applies for ALL arrivals from 4 February 2021:
- 14-day quarantine period must be undertaken at the address specified on the Passenger Locator Form
- persons who travel from another country to Ireland, and arrive via Northern Ireland, must also observe the mandatory quarantine regime
If you do not fulfil the legal requirement for mandatory quarantine you are committing an offence, and can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months, or both.
You may only leave your place of residence during the quarantine period for unavoidable reasons of an emergency nature to protect a person’s health or welfare, or to leave the State.
You may leave to take a RT-PCR test no less than 5 days after your arrival. If you receive written confirmation that the result of this test is negative/ ‘not detected’ your period of quarantine can end.
You must retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
Passenger Locator Form
If you arrive in Ireland from another country, you must fill in a COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form.
Find out more:
gov.ie – Travelling to Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
*From Third Countries:
If you travel to Ireland from Angola; Botswana; Brazil; Burundi; Cape Verde; the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Lesotho; Malawi; Eswatini; Mauritius; Mozambique; Namibia; Republic of South Africa; Rwanda; Seychelles; Tanzania; United Arab Emirates; Zambia; Zimbabwe:
- A 14-day quarantine period must be undertaken at the address specified on the Passenger Locator Form
- you must complete the full 14 days of quarantine – regardless of whether you have a negative test result
If you do not fulfil the legal requirement for mandatory quarantine you are committing an offence and can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months, or both.
Is a coronavirus test required?
Passenger arrivals from ALL countries are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test. The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
You will be asked to show evidence of this negative or ‘not detected’ result before boarding the airplane or ferry from the country you are travelling from, and will be denied boarding if you cannot produce such evidence. Once you arrive in Ireland, you have to provide this evidence to Irish immigration officers.
You should retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
In case of lack of a negative or ‘not detected’ RT-PCR test or a valid exemption, you can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months. You will also be required to take an RT-PCR test after arrival at your own expense.
Children aged 6 and under are exempted.
Is a quarantine required?
A legal requirement to quarantine has been introduced for all travellers (except if your journey originates in Northern Ireland) with very limited exceptions.
This applies for ALL arrivals from 4 February 2021:
- A 14-day quarantine period must be undertaken at the address specified on the Passenger Locator Form
- persons who travel from another country to Ireland, and arrive via Northern Ireland, must also observe the mandatory quarantine regime
If you do not fulfil the legal requirement for mandatory quarantine you are committing an offence and can be fined up to €2,500 or get a prison sentence of up to 6 months, or both.
You may only leave your place of residence during the quarantine period for unavoidable reasons of an emergency nature to protect a person’s health or welfare, or to leave the State.
You may leave to take an RT-PCR test no less than 5 days after your arrival. If you receive written confirmation that the result of this test is negative/ ‘not detected’ your period of quarantine can end.
You must retain the written confirmation of your test result for at least 14 days.
Passenger Locator Form
If you arrive in Ireland from another country, you must fill in a COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form.
Find out more:
gov.ie – Travelling to Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 25 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021. The Italian government approved a new legislative decree which extends the ban on interregional travel until 27 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is in effect from Sunday, 21 February 2021. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are red zones, but several provinces and towns are: the whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the entire province of Perugia and the town of San Venanzo in the province of Terni in Umbria, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, the town of Re in Piedmont, the towns of Bollate, Castrezzato, Mede and Viggiù in Lombardy, the towns of Roccagorga,Colleferro and Carpineto in Lazio, and 28 small towns in Molise.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: the remaining part of Abruzzo, Campania, Emilia Romagna, Liguria, Molise, Tuscany, the remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
Please note that the ban on interregional travel remains at least until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 25 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is in effect from Sunday, 21 February 2021. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are red zones, but several provinces and towns are: the whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the entire province of Perugia and the town of San Venanzo in the province of Terni in Umbria, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, the town of Re in Piedmont, the towns of Bollate, Castrezzato, Mede and Viggiù in Lombardy, the towns of Roccagorga,Colleferro and Carpineto in Lazio, and 28 small towns in Molise.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: the remaining part of Abruzzo, Campania, Emilia Romagna, Liguria, Molise, Tuscany, the remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
Please note that the ban on interregional travel remains at least until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 25 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Sunday, 14 February. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are in red zones, but specific provinces/towns. The whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the province of Perugia (in Umbria), 2 towns in the province of Terni, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, 27 towns in Molise and one town in Tuscany red zones. The towns in the province of Terni are Amelia and San Venanzo, in the Molise region are Termoli, Acquaviva Collecroce, Casacalenda, Castelmauro, Civitacampomarano, Colletorto, Guardialfiera, Guglionesi, Larino, Mafalda, Montecilfone, Montefalcone del Sannio, Montemitro, Montenero di Bisaccia, Montorio nei Frentani, Palata, Petacciato, Portocannone, Ripabottoni, Rotello, San Felice del Molise, San Giacomo degli Schiavoni, San Giuliano di Puglia, San Martino in Pensilis, Santa Croce di Magliano, Tavenna and Ururi, while in Tuscany it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: remaining part of Abruzzo, Liguria, Tuscany, Sicily, remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
From Monday, 15 February, Sicily becomes a yellow zone. Finally, the ban on interregional travel remains until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
According to the Order of 13 February 2021, specific measures apply for travellers coming from Austria, who are required to:
- present a certificate of a negative antigenic or molecular test, performed up to 48 hours before entry;
- undergo an additional antigenic or PCR test upon arrival or within 48 hours from entering the country;
- undergo, regardless of the result of the test, health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for a period of 14 days;
- carry out a further molecular or antigenic test at the end of the 14-day quarantine.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
Additionally, for Italy, the following rules apply:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK (List E) in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take an antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must undergo a health surveillance and fiduciary isolation for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
Entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021). Some exceptions are in place according to the Order of 13 February 2021.
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 25 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Sunday, 14 February. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are in red zones, but specific provinces/towns. The whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the province of Perugia (in Umbria), 2 towns in the province of Terni, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, 27 towns in Molise and one town in Tuscany red zones. The towns in the province of Terni are Amelia and San Venanzo, in the Molise region are Termoli, Acquaviva Collecroce, Casacalenda, Castelmauro, Civitacampomarano, Colletorto, Guardialfiera, Guglionesi, Larino, Mafalda, Montecilfone, Montefalcone del Sannio, Montemitro, Montenero di Bisaccia, Montorio nei Frentani, Palata, Petacciato, Portocannone, Ripabottoni, Rotello, San Felice del Molise, San Giacomo degli Schiavoni, San Giuliano di Puglia, San Martino in Pensilis, Santa Croce di Magliano, Tavenna and Ururi, while in Tuscany it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: remaining part of Abruzzo, Liguria, Tuscany, Sicily, remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
From Monday, 15 February, Sicily becomes a yellow zone. Finally, the ban on interregional travel remains until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 25 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information.
More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 5 March
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Transport strikes planned in country in February and March; Airport personnel 19 February & 23 March; General strike 8 March; Local buses and trams 26 March (Media Reports, 15.02.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Sunday, 14 February. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are in red zones, but specific provinces/towns. The whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the province of Perugia (in Umbria), 2 towns in the province of Terni, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, 27 towns in Molise and one town in Tuscany red zones. The towns in the province of Terni are Amelia and San Venanzo, in the Molise region are Termoli, Acquaviva Collecroce, Casacalenda, Castelmauro, Civitacampomarano, Colletorto, Guardialfiera, Guglionesi, Larino, Mafalda, Montecilfone, Montefalcone del Sannio, Montemitro, Montenero di Bisaccia, Montorio nei Frentani, Palata, Petacciato, Portocannone, Ripabottoni, Rotello, San Felice del Molise, San Giacomo degli Schiavoni, San Giuliano di Puglia, San Martino in Pensilis, Santa Croce di Magliano, Tavenna and Ururi, while in Tuscany it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: remaining part of Abruzzo, Liguria, Tuscany, Sicily, remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
From Monday, 15 February, Sicily becomes a yellow zone. Finally, the ban on interregional travel remains until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The government has signed into effect an ordinance in effect from 14 February-5 March 2021 banning entry or passage through Italy for persons who have been in or passed through Brazil in the previous 14 days. The only exceptions are for persons who were legally resident in Italy prior to 13 February or flight crews who are not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In any case, such persons must take a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Secondly, the ordinance requires are persons who have been in or passed through Austria in the previous 14 days to take a COVID-19 test in the 48 hours prior to arriving in Italy (with a negative result) and a second test within 48 hours of arriving in Italy. Regardless of the test results on arrival, such persons must then quarantine for 14 days and take an additional COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period.
Third and finally, the use of “COVID-tested” flights without the usual requirement for a 14-day quarantine period has been extended by the ordinance to 15 March 2021. These flights originate from Frankfurt’s Frankfurt-am-Main Airport, Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport, New York’s JFK and Newark Liberty airports, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport. To be a COVID-tested flight, boarding must only be granted to passengers with a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48 hours prior to boarding. Persons arriving from New York’s JFK or Newark airports or Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport must take a second COVID-19 test upon arrival at Fiumicino airport. In this regard, please note that FAO continues to apply a precautionary measure of 14 days-teleworking upon arrival from abroad, prior to access the HQ.
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Sunday, 14 February. The classifications are as follows:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion. No regions are in red zones, but specific provinces/towns. The whole of the autonomous province of Bolzano, the province of Perugia (in Umbria), 2 towns in the province of Terni, the whole provinces of Chieti and Pescara in Abruzzo, 27 towns in Molise and one town in Tuscany red zones. The towns in the province of Terni are Amelia and San Venanzo, in the Molise region are Termoli, Acquaviva Collecroce, Casacalenda, Castelmauro, Civitacampomarano, Colletorto, Guardialfiera, Guglionesi, Larino, Mafalda, Montecilfone, Montefalcone del Sannio, Montemitro, Montenero di Bisaccia, Montorio nei Frentani, Palata, Petacciato, Portocannone, Ripabottoni, Rotello, San Felice del Molise, San Giacomo degli Schiavoni, San Giuliano di Puglia, San Martino in Pensilis, Santa Croce di Magliano, Tavenna and Ururi, while in Tuscany it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: remaining part of Abruzzo, Liguria, Tuscany, Sicily, remaining part of Umbria and the autonomous province of Trento.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
From Monday, 15 February, Sicily becomes a yellow zone. Finally, the ban on interregional travel remains until 25 February 2021, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
Regions have signed ordinances into effect designating the whole of the province of Perugia (in Umbria), six towns in the province of Terni, three towns in Abruzzo, and one town in Tuscany red zones from Monday, 8 February 2021. The six towns in the province of Terni are Ameilia, Attigliano, Calvi dell’Umbria, Lugnano in Teverina, Montegabbione, and San Venanzo. The three towns in Abruzzo are San Giovanni Teatino and Atessa (in the province of Chieti) and Tocco da Casuaria (in the province of Pescara), while in Tuscany, it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
Additionally, the President of the autonomous province of Bolzano has decided to implement lockdown measures until 28 February 2021, like the closure of non-essential commercial activities despite its Orange Zone classification.
In addition, the Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Monday, 8 February. The ban on interregional travel remains and the classifications are as follows:
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Puglia, Sicily, Umbria, and the autonomous province of Bolzano.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place, but recall travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
Regions have signed ordinances into effect designating the whole of the province of Perugia (in Umbria), six towns in the province of Terni, three towns in Abruzzo, and one town in Tuscany red zones from Monday, 8 February 2021. The six towns in the province of Terni are Ameilia, Attigliano, Calvi dell’Umbria, Lugnano in Teverina, Montegabbione, and San Venanzo. The three towns in Abruzzo are San Giovanni Teatino and Atessa (in the province of Chieti) and Tocco da Casuaria (in the province of Pescara), while in Tuscany, it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
Additionally, the President of the autonomous province of Bolzano has decided to implement lockdown measures until 28 February 2021, like the closure of non-essential commercial activities despite its Orange Zone classification.
In addition, the Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Monday, 8 February. The ban on interregional travel remains and the classifications are as follows:
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Puglia, Sicily, Umbria, and the autonomous province of Bolzano.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place, but recall travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
**From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Health or the Agency for National Tourism. Consult the European Union’s Re-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’.Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or on regional COVID zones is available on the Ministry of Health website (in English).
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on the Ministry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Train workers go on strike on 8, 9 February (Trenord, 08.02.2021). Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
Regions have signed ordinances into effect designating the whole of the province of Perugia (in Umbria), six towns in the province of Terni, three towns in Abruzzo, and one town in Tuscany red zones from Monday, 8 February 2021. The six towns in the province of Terni are Ameilia, Attigliano, Calvi dell’Umbria, Lugnano in Teverina, Montegabbione, and San Venanzo. The three towns in Abruzzo are San Giovanni Teatino and Atessa (in the province of Chieti) and Tocco da Casuaria (in the province of Pescara), while in Tuscany, it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
Additionally, the President of the autonomous province of Bolzano has decided to implement lockdown measures until 28 February 2021, like the closure of non-essential commercial activities despite its Orange Zone classification.
In addition, the Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Monday, 8 February. The ban on interregional travel remains and the classifications are as follows:
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Puglia, Sicily, Umbria, and the autonomous province of Bolzano.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place, but recall travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
**From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
Regions have signed ordinances into effect designating the whole of the province of Perugia (in Umbria), six towns in the province of Terni, three towns in Abruzzo, and one town in Tuscany red zones from Monday, 8 February 2021. The six towns in the province of Terni are Ameilia, Attigliano, Calvi dell’Umbria, Lugnano in Teverina, Montegabbione, and San Venanzo. The three towns in Abruzzo are San Giovanni Teatino and Atessa (in the province of Chieti) and Tocco da Casuaria (in the province of Pescara), while in Tuscany, it is the town of Chiusi (in the province of Siena).
Additionally, the President of the autonomous province of Bolzano has decided to implement lockdown measures until 28 February 2021, like the closure of non-essential commercial activities despite its Orange Zone classification.
In addition, the Italian government has released the latest classification of regions into different color zones, which is also in effect from Monday, 8 February. The ban on interregional travel remains and the classifications are as follows:
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Puglia, Sicily, Umbria, and the autonomous province of Bolzano.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place, but recall travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The latest classification of regions by color, which is in effect from Monday, 1 February 2021. Regardless of the new classification, the ban on interregional travel remains.
• Red Zones: There are no red zones.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Puglia, Sardinia, Sicily, Umbria and the autonomous province of Bolzano.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The latest classification of regions by color, which is in effect from Monday, 1 February 2021. Regardless of the new classification, the ban on interregional travel remains.
• Red Zones: There are no red zones.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Puglia, Sardinia, Sicily, Umbria and the autonomous province of Bolzano.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK (List E)
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil (List E)
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
Is quarantine required?
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
Some exceptions are in place.
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian government extends suspension of flights from Brazil until 15 February (Reuters, 30.01.2021). COVID-19 restrictions to ease in several regions (Reuters, 29.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021).
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
*Updated Classification of regions:
The latest classification of regions by color, which is in effect from Monday, 1 February 2021. Regardless of the new classification, the ban on interregional travel remains.
• Red Zones: There are no red zones.
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Puglia, Sardinia, Sicily, Umbria and the autonomous province of Bolzano.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 February, travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions, including Lazio, are Yellow zones.
You are reminded that the following standard measures are still applicable nation-wide except where stricter in Orange & Red Zones:
• Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Movements within the regions: It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions (open only from Monday to Friday)
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Strike expected to affect trains on 29 January (RFI, 26.01.2021). Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:. A reclasifiction was made on 24January 2021.
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Lombardy, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle d’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna, Sardinia and Veneto.;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the 14 days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Is a coronavirus test required?
A certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, performed up to 48 hours before entry, is required.
Some exceptions to the requirement for a coronavirus test are in place.
Is a quarantine required?
People who do not present negative results of a molecular or antigenic test are subject to mandatory health surveillance and 14-day fiduciary isolation.
Some exceptions to the requirement for quarantine are in place.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers. Furthermore, travellers are asked to inform the Local Health Authority as soon as they enter the Italian territory.
Other
For information related to molecular or antigenic test in Italy, you can refer to the following phone numbers:
- From abroad: +39 0232008345 – +39 0283905385
- In Italy: 1500 (free of charge)
Before embarking on a trip to Italy, make sure that your Region of destination has no further measures in place. For additional information, some useful regional contacts are available.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact Point for Italy
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:. A reclasifiction was made on 24January 2021.
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Lombardy, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle d’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna, Sardinia and Veneto.;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
In case of stay or transit through EU countries (List C) during the fourteen days prior to the entrance in Italy, entry is permitted without the need to specify the reason for travelling and a certificate of a negative COVID-19 test performed up to 48 hours is required.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore (List D) are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:. A reclasifiction was made on 24January 2021.
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Lombardy, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle d’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna, Sardinia and Veneto.;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Lombardy, Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle D’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna and Veneto;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, Sardinia and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Lombardy, Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle D’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna and Veneto;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, Sardinia and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from the UK
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
Specific rules and guidelines for travel from Brazil
From 16 to 31 January 2021, entry and transit in the national territory are forbidden for travellers who have visited or transited through Brazil in the 14 days prior to their expected day of entry (except for those who were on board an indirect flight to Italy which began on 16 January 2021).
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Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Lombardy, Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle D’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna and Veneto;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, Sardinia and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: Travel across regions in Italy is banned until 15 February unless for reasons of work, health or absolute necessity. All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail companies are operating reduced schedules. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or theAgency for National Tourism . Consult the European Union’sRe-Open EU page for rules on travelling within the EU.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times
• Eateries are open in yellow zones from 5am to 6pm. Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. In all zones, a home delivery service is available until 10pm
• It is not permitted to consume food and drink outdoors, between 6pm and 5am
• Theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed
• Museums, in yellow zones, are open on weekdays
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online
• Ski stations will remain closed until 15 February
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘orange zones’ or ‘red zones’. Travel to or from ’red zones’ should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. In red and orange zones, bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications, or onregional COVID zones is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English). Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage. You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Italy Latest News: Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Lombardy, Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle D’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna and Veneto;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, Sardinia and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Entry into Italy in case of travellers who have visited or passed through the UK in the previous 14 days is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy since before 23 December 2020 or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared through a self-declaration form.
In these cases, travellers are allowed entry to Italy only if they:
- present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.
- Take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy at the airport, port or border crossing, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
- Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local Health Authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
Personnel engaged in transporting passengers and freight shall not be required to quarantine in Italy (except if they have Covid-19 symptoms), but shall nevertheless be required to take a molecular or antigenic swab test on arrival at the airport, port or border crossing, where possible, or within 48 hours from entering the country at their local Health Authority.
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health Authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available.
Rail services are returning to their usual timetables, but there are still some reduced domestic services and international travel is limited. Some cross-border bus companies have cancelled their services. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or the European Union’sRe-Open EU page.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel.
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity.
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes.
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed.
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times.
• Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. These venues must close at 6pm, although they can offer takeaway service, for consumption at home, until 10pm.
• Museums, theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed.
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted.
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed.
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned.
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online.
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from one of those regions should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. Bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English) .
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Many Italian Regions (14 out of 20) have postponed the start date of in-person teaching activities for secondary schools (high schools), originally scheduled to be resumed on 11 January 2021.
High schools in Lazio, Piedmont, Liguria and Apulia will start in-person teaching on 18 January, Umbria on 23 January, Lombardy and Emilia Romagna on 25 January, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Marche, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia on 1 February.
In effect from Sunday, 10 January. Please recall that in line with the last decree, a reclassification of regions has been made. Orange Zone restrictions are applicable to the entire country on weekends until 15 January.
Therefore, the following classifications are for the remaining days of the week:
• Red Zones: There are no red zones
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Calabria, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Sicily and Veneto.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the latest decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 January travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions are Yellow zones.
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected.
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories.
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
Italy Latest News: Italian authorities suspend flights from Brazil because of new COVID-19 strain (Reuters, 16.01.2021). Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
The Host Government defined a new possible color for regions: White Zones. White Zones are regions with less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Many of the standard restrictions we are familiar with for Yellow Zones would be shed in these regions, with the following key points: no curfew; food services would be allowed to operate in the evenings; malls, shopping centers, and business parks would be allowed to open on the weekends; gyms and public pools could reopen; cinemas, theaters and exhibitions would once again resume. Precise details will be communicated as soon as regions begin to receive a White Zone classification. At this time, no regions fall into this category.
2. 14 January 2021 legislative decree (also known as DPCM):
The Host Government issued the latest legislative decree that replaces the provisions of the 3 December 2020 decree and is in effect from 16 January – 5 March 2021.
The new standard measures introduced across the country are:
• The ban on travel between Italy and the United Kingdom continues to apply for the full period;
• Persons are allowed to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is emphasized that such travel is prohibited to visit second homes;
• Museums and other cultural institutions may operate Monday-Friday but must be closed on weekends and holidays. Such venues must observe strict social distancing and hygiene protocols; exhibits may open to the public as per the same restrictions.
• Secondary schools (high schools) will open from 18 January, guaranteeing in-person activities for between 50-75% of students. The remaining teaching activities will be delivered via remote learning;
• Ski areas are to remain closed until 15 February 2021; from that date, ski facilities may open to recreational skiers with the adoption of appropriate social distancing guidelines;
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed at all hours. Food service activities continue to be allowed in hotels at any time for their overnight guests. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited; however, it has been clarified that takeaway services are only allowed until 18:00 for cafes without a kitchen and pubs/bars.
Updated Classification of regions:
From Sunday 17 January 2021, the below classification of regions will apply. Please note that the above rules pertaining to visiting private residences and restrictions on takeaway have been integrated for Orange and Red Zones:
• Red Zones: Zones classified as having the ‘maximum’ risk of contagion have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Lombardy, Sicily and the autonomous Province of Bolzano.
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. A self-certification form is required for all movements;
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed;
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence, with the use of a mask, and respecting social distancing; individual outdoor sports activities are also allowed;
• Schools: preschool and primary school teaching activities will continue to be held in person, but secondary education and higher must adopt remote modalities;
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers;
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Abruzzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Marche, Piedmont, Apulia, Umbria, Valle D’Aosta, Calabria, Emilia Romagna and Veneto;
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed;
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals. In addition, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves;
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00; the exception, as listed above, is that takeaway is not allowed past 18:00 for cafes without kitchens or bars/pubs. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue;
• Museums and cultural institutions are closed, with the exception of libraries, which may continue to operate on the basis of appointments and reservations;
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below): Basilicata, Campania, Molise, autonomous Province of Trento, Sardinia and Tuscany.
International travel restrictions have been slightly updated in terms of country lists (mainly due to the UK travel ban):
There are no travel bans, but travel to and from any non-EU/non-Schengen country is solely allowed for work, health, study or other urgent reasons. The exceptions to this requirement are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, and Thailand. 14 days quarantine is required for any non-EU/non-Schengen country. Testing is required for persons entering Italy who have been in ANY EU country in the past 14 days. Officials of international organizations or diplomatic missions are all exempt from the aforementioned restrictions. For specific and detailed requirements for entering Italy you should consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs (which will be updated soon to reflect the provisions of the new legislative decree).
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services;
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors;
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities;
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor;
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience;
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned;
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit;
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies;
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited;
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences;
• Shopping centers, malls, business centers, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open;
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited;
• Amusement parks;
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility);
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors;
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided;
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee;
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed;
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected;
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments;
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories;
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity;
• Cruises: Italian-flagged cruise ships may operate in line with the specific protocols. Cruise services may be enjoyed by anyone who is not subject to quarantine. Ships may stop in any EU/Schengen country, but non-guided excursions are prohibited.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Until 15th January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing.
Until 6th January, those wishing to fly must present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. You must also take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy – arrivals by air from the UK will take this test at the airport. Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local health authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available.
Rail services are returning to their usual timetables, but there are still some reduced domestic services and international travel is limited. Some cross-border bus companies have cancelled their services. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or the European Union’sRe-Open EU page.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel.
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity.
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes.
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed.
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times.
• Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. These venues must close at 6pm, although they can offer takeaway service, for consumption at home, until 10pm.
• Museums, theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed.
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted.
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed.
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned.
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online.
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from one of those regions should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. Bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English) .
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Many Italian Regions (14 out of 20) have postponed the start date of in-person teaching activities for secondary schools (high schools), originally scheduled to be resumed on 11 January 2021.
High schools in Lazio, Piedmont, Liguria and Apulia will start in-person teaching on 18 January, Umbria on 23 January, Lombardy and Emilia Romagna on 25 January, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Marche, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia on 1 February.
In effect from Sunday, 10 January. Please recall that in line with the last decree, a reclassification of regions has been made. Orange Zone restrictions are applicable to the entire country on weekends until 15 January.
Therefore, the following classifications are for the remaining days of the week:
• Red Zones: There are no red zones
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Calabria, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Sicily and Veneto.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the latest decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 January travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions are Yellow zones.
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected.
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories.
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
Italy Latest News: Government extends ban on nonessential travel between regions to 15 February, other COVID-19 restrictions to 5 March (Reuters, 15.01.2021). Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
Travellers from the UK: With immediate effect and until 15 January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing. Please note that for detailed and specific requirements for entering Italy you should visit and consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs, which will be updated shortly in accordance with the provisions of the latest ordinance.
The Italian Government has issued an additional decree covering 7-15 January 2021. It tightens measures further for the remainder of the period of the last DPCM and is in effect from today.
Its main points are as follows:
• Between 7-15 January, travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is underlined that such travel is prohibited for visiting second homes.
• Between 7-15 January, Orange Zone restrictions will be applicable throughout the entire country on weekends. These additional restrictions are the following:
o Leaving one’s municipality is prohibited, except for except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
o Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Throughout the entire period, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• The reopening of secondary schools (high schools) has been postponed to 11 January and in-person activities must only be guaranteed for 50% of students.
The decree finally amends the criteria for the classification of regions. In regions where there are more than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants:
• Orange Zone classification when Rt is between 1 and 1.25. There is sustained growth in the number of cases, corresponding with an increase in hospitalizations. Such a scenario would not overwhelm the healthcare system for at least 2-4 months, if sustained.
• Red Zone classification when Rt is between 1.25-1.5. Such a scenario would overwhelm the healthcare system within 2-3 months, if sustained.
The latest Italian Government legislative decree tightens measures over the upcoming winter holidays and is effective from 19 December 2020, provides that:
On 24-27 December 2020, 31 December 2020 – 3 January 2021, and 5-6 January 2021, the entire country is a Red Zone with the following measures applicable:
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. The usual self-certification form (attached) will be required for all movements.
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed.
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence and with the use of a mask.
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers.
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely.
On 28-30 December and 4 January, the entire country is an Orange Zone with the following measures applicable:
• Travel between regions is not allowed, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
Violations of these restrictions are punishable by fines between 400-1,000 EUR.
The following dispensations are specified in the decree:
• For persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
• It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region between 5am and 10pm, no more than once a day. Curfew must be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14.
The decree clarifies that between 24 December – 6 January all the other standard measures from the 3 December 2020 decree remain in place across the country. In particular, you are reminded that the following remains in effect:
• From 21 December 2020 to 6 January 2021, travel between individual regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except to return to one’s primary legal residence. For this entire period, travel to second homes in other regions or autonomous provinces is prohibited.
• On 25 and 26 December 2020 and 1 January 2021, leaving one’s municipality is totally prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. On these days, it is not only prohibited to travel to second homes in other regions or provinces, as aforementioned, but ALSO in other municipalities.
• An extended curfew is in place for New Year’s Eve only: from 22:00 on 31 December to 7:00 on 1 January.
For any clarifications on the content of the new decree, please visit the host government website at the following LINK, which will be updated shortly to take into account the latest provisions.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Until 15th January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing.
Until 6th January, those wishing to fly must present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. You must also take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy – arrivals by air from the UK will take this test at the airport. Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local health authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available.
Rail services are returning to their usual timetables, but there are still some reduced domestic services and international travel is limited. Some cross-border bus companies have cancelled their services. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or the European Union’sRe-Open EU page.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel.
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity.
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes.
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed.
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times.
• Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. These venues must close at 6pm, although they can offer takeaway service, for consumption at home, until 10pm.
• Museums, theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed.
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted.
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed.
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned.
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online.
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from one of those regions should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. Bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English) .
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Many Italian Regions (14 out of 20) have postponed the start date of in-person teaching activities for secondary schools (high schools), originally scheduled to be resumed on 11 January 2021.
High schools in Lazio, Piedmont, Liguria and Apulia will start in-person teaching on 18 January, Umbria on 23 January, Lombardy and Emilia Romagna on 25 January, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Marche, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia on 1 February.
In effect from Sunday, 10 January. Please recall that in line with the last decree, a reclassification of regions has been made. Orange Zone restrictions are applicable to the entire country on weekends until 15 January.
Therefore, the following classifications are for the remaining days of the week:
• Red Zones: There are no red zones
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Calabria, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Sicily and Veneto.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the latest decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 January travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions are Yellow zones.
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected.
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories.
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
Italy Latest News: Italy to extend COVID state of emergency to end of April (Reuters, 13.01.2021). Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
Travellers from the UK: With immediate effect and until 15 January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing. Please note that for detailed and specific requirements for entering Italy you should visit and consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs, which will be updated shortly in accordance with the provisions of the latest ordinance.
The Italian Government has issued an additional decree covering 7-15 January 2021. It tightens measures further for the remainder of the period of the last DPCM and is in effect from today.
Its main points are as follows:
• Between 7-15 January, travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is underlined that such travel is prohibited for visiting second homes.
• Between 7-15 January, Orange Zone restrictions will be applicable throughout the entire country on weekends. These additional restrictions are the following:
o Leaving one’s municipality is prohibited, except for except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
o Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Throughout the entire period, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• The reopening of secondary schools (high schools) has been postponed to 11 January and in-person activities must only be guaranteed for 50% of students.
The decree finally amends the criteria for the classification of regions. In regions where there are more than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants:
• Orange Zone classification when Rt is between 1 and 1.25. There is sustained growth in the number of cases, corresponding with an increase in hospitalizations. Such a scenario would not overwhelm the healthcare system for at least 2-4 months, if sustained.
• Red Zone classification when Rt is between 1.25-1.5. Such a scenario would overwhelm the healthcare system within 2-3 months, if sustained.
The latest Italian Government legislative decree tightens measures over the upcoming winter holidays and is effective from 19 December 2020, provides that:
On 24-27 December 2020, 31 December 2020 – 3 January 2021, and 5-6 January 2021, the entire country is a Red Zone with the following measures applicable:
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. The usual self-certification form (attached) will be required for all movements.
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed.
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence and with the use of a mask.
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers.
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely.
On 28-30 December and 4 January, the entire country is an Orange Zone with the following measures applicable:
• Travel between regions is not allowed, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
Violations of these restrictions are punishable by fines between 400-1,000 EUR.
The following dispensations are specified in the decree:
• For persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
• It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region between 5am and 10pm, no more than once a day. Curfew must be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14.
The decree clarifies that between 24 December – 6 January all the other standard measures from the 3 December 2020 decree remain in place across the country. In particular, you are reminded that the following remains in effect:
• From 21 December 2020 to 6 January 2021, travel between individual regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except to return to one’s primary legal residence. For this entire period, travel to second homes in other regions or autonomous provinces is prohibited.
• On 25 and 26 December 2020 and 1 January 2021, leaving one’s municipality is totally prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. On these days, it is not only prohibited to travel to second homes in other regions or provinces, as aforementioned, but ALSO in other municipalities.
• An extended curfew is in place for New Year’s Eve only: from 22:00 on 31 December to 7:00 on 1 January.
For any clarifications on the content of the new decree, please visit the host government website at the following LINK, which will be updated shortly to take into account the latest provisions.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Until 15th January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing.
Until 6th January, those wishing to fly must present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. You must also take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy – arrivals by air from the UK will take this test at the airport. Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local health authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available.
Rail services are returning to their usual timetables, but there are still some reduced domestic services and international travel is limited. Some cross-border bus companies have cancelled their services. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from theMinistry of Health or the European Union’sRe-Open EU page.
*Public spaces and services: Enhanced measures are in place across Italy to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus:
• A nightly curfew is in place in all regions from 2200 to 0500. You cannot leave your place of residence during this time apart from for emergency, work or health reasons. You’ll need to carry a self-declaration form explaining your reasons for travel.
• There is a strong recommendation from the Italian Government that people do not travel by public or private transport except for work, study or health reasons, or for reasons of necessity.
• Public transport is operating at 50% capacity and its use is discouraged except for essential purposes.
• Social distancing of one metre must be observed.
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public spaces, whether outdoors or indoors. You should pay close attention to signage when travelling and carry a mask with you at all times.
• Only four people can sit together at a restaurant, bar or café. These venues must close at 6pm, although they can offer takeaway service, for consumption at home, until 10pm.
• Museums, theatres, cinemas and concert venues are closed.
• Dance activity in nightclubs and open air venues has been suspended and parties are not permitted.
• Parks are open and outdoor exercise is permitted, subject to social distancing. Contact sport is banned and sports centres, swimming pools, spas and wellness centres are closed.
• Funerals are permitted to take place with limited attendance. Churches can celebrate mass, weddings and baptisms. Receptions following civil and religious ceremonies are banned.
• Conferences and trade fairs are banned, unless held online.
More stringent measures are in place in some Italian regions that have been designated ‘red zones’.
Travel to or from one of those regions should only be for work, health or emergency reasons. Bars and eateries are closed and only shops selling essential items are open. More information on regional classifications is available on theMinistry of Health website (in English) .
Regional and local authorities in Italy are empowered to adjust these measures where required, which may occur at short notice. You are strongly advised to consult the websites for the regions in which you are travelling for the latest information. You should also pay close attention to local signage.
You can find more information on measures on theMinistry of Health website (in English) and Frequently Asked Questions on theMinistry of Foreign Affairs website (in English).
Many Italian Regions (14 out of 20) have postponed the start date of in-person teaching activities for secondary schools (high schools), originally scheduled to be resumed on 11 January 2021.
High schools in Lazio, Piedmont, Liguria and Apulia will start in-person teaching on 18 January, Umbria on 23 January, Lombardy and Emilia Romagna on 25 January, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Marche, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia on 1 February.
In effect from Sunday, 10 January. Please recall that in line with the last decree, a reclassification of regions has been made. Orange Zone restrictions are applicable to the entire country on weekends until 15 January.
Therefore, the following classifications are for the remaining days of the week:
• Red Zones: There are no red zones
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Calabria, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Sicily and Veneto.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the latest decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 January travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions are Yellow zones.
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected.
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories.
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
Italy Latest News: Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
Travellers from the UK: With immediate effect and until 15 January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing. Please note that for detailed and specific requirements for entering Italy you should visit and consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs, which will be updated shortly in accordance with the provisions of the latest ordinance.
The Italian Government has issued an additional decree covering 7-15 January 2021. It tightens measures further for the remainder of the period of the last DPCM and is in effect from today.
Its main points are as follows:
• Between 7-15 January, travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is underlined that such travel is prohibited for visiting second homes.
• Between 7-15 January, Orange Zone restrictions will be applicable throughout the entire country on weekends. These additional restrictions are the following:
o Leaving one’s municipality is prohibited, except for except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
o Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Throughout the entire period, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• The reopening of secondary schools (high schools) has been postponed to 11 January and in-person activities must only be guaranteed for 50% of students.
The decree finally amends the criteria for the classification of regions. In regions where there are more than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants:
• Orange Zone classification when Rt is between 1 and 1.25. There is sustained growth in the number of cases, corresponding with an increase in hospitalizations. Such a scenario would not overwhelm the healthcare system for at least 2-4 months, if sustained.
• Red Zone classification when Rt is between 1.25-1.5. Such a scenario would overwhelm the healthcare system within 2-3 months, if sustained.
The latest Italian Government legislative decree tightens measures over the upcoming winter holidays and is effective from 19 December 2020, provides that:
On 24-27 December 2020, 31 December 2020 – 3 January 2021, and 5-6 January 2021, the entire country is a Red Zone with the following measures applicable:
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. The usual self-certification form (attached) will be required for all movements.
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed.
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence and with the use of a mask.
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers.
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely.
On 28-30 December and 4 January, the entire country is an Orange Zone with the following measures applicable:
• Travel between regions is not allowed, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
Violations of these restrictions are punishable by fines between 400-1,000 EUR.
The following dispensations are specified in the decree:
• For persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
• It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region between 5am and 10pm, no more than once a day. Curfew must be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14.
The decree clarifies that between 24 December – 6 January all the other standard measures from the 3 December 2020 decree remain in place across the country. In particular, you are reminded that the following remains in effect:
• From 21 December 2020 to 6 January 2021, travel between individual regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except to return to one’s primary legal residence. For this entire period, travel to second homes in other regions or autonomous provinces is prohibited.
• On 25 and 26 December 2020 and 1 January 2021, leaving one’s municipality is totally prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. On these days, it is not only prohibited to travel to second homes in other regions or provinces, as aforementioned, but ALSO in other municipalities.
• An extended curfew is in place for New Year’s Eve only: from 22:00 on 31 December to 7:00 on 1 January.
For any clarifications on the content of the new decree, please visit the host government website at the following LINK, which will be updated shortly to take into account the latest provisions.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Until 15th January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing.
Until 6th January, those wishing to fly must present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. You must also take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy – arrivals by air from the UK will take this test at the airport. Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local health authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
____________________
Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail services are returning to their usual timetables, but there are still some reduced domestic services and international travel is limited. Some cross-border bus companies have cancelled their services. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the European Union’s Re-Open EU page.
Many Italian Regions (14 out of 20) have postponed the start date of in-person teaching activities for secondary schools (high schools), originally scheduled to be resumed on 11 January 2021.
High schools in Lazio, Piedmont, Liguria and Apulia will start in-person teaching on 18 January, Umbria on 23 January, Lombardy and Emilia Romagna on 25 January, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Marche, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia on 1 February.
In effect from Sunday, 10 January. Please recall that in line with the last decree, a reclassification of regions has been made. Orange Zone restrictions are applicable to the entire country on weekends until 15 January.
Therefore, the following classifications are for the remaining days of the week:
• Red Zones: There are no red zones
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Calabria, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Sicily and Veneto.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the latest decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 January travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions are Yellow zones.
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected.
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories.
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
Italy Latest News: Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
Travellers from the UK: With immediate effect and until 15 January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing. Please note that for detailed and specific requirements for entering Italy you should visit and consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs, which will be updated shortly in accordance with the provisions of the latest ordinance.
The Italian Government has issued an additional decree covering 7-15 January 2021. It tightens measures further for the remainder of the period of the last DPCM and is in effect from today.
Its main points are as follows:
• Between 7-15 January, travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is underlined that such travel is prohibited for visiting second homes.
• Between 7-15 January, Orange Zone restrictions will be applicable throughout the entire country on weekends. These additional restrictions are the following:
o Leaving one’s municipality is prohibited, except for except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
o Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Throughout the entire period, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• The reopening of secondary schools (high schools) has been postponed to 11 January and in-person activities must only be guaranteed for 50% of students.
The decree finally amends the criteria for the classification of regions. In regions where there are more than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants:
• Orange Zone classification when Rt is between 1 and 1.25. There is sustained growth in the number of cases, corresponding with an increase in hospitalizations. Such a scenario would not overwhelm the healthcare system for at least 2-4 months, if sustained.
• Red Zone classification when Rt is between 1.25-1.5. Such a scenario would overwhelm the healthcare system within 2-3 months, if sustained.
The latest Italian Government legislative decree tightens measures over the upcoming winter holidays and is effective from 19 December 2020, provides that:
On 24-27 December 2020, 31 December 2020 – 3 January 2021, and 5-6 January 2021, the entire country is a Red Zone with the following measures applicable:
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. The usual self-certification form (attached) will be required for all movements.
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed.
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence and with the use of a mask.
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers.
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely.
On 28-30 December and 4 January, the entire country is an Orange Zone with the following measures applicable:
• Travel between regions is not allowed, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
Violations of these restrictions are punishable by fines between 400-1,000 EUR.
The following dispensations are specified in the decree:
• For persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
• It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region between 5am and 10pm, no more than once a day. Curfew must be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14.
The decree clarifies that between 24 December – 6 January all the other standard measures from the 3 December 2020 decree remain in place across the country. In particular, you are reminded that the following remains in effect:
• From 21 December 2020 to 6 January 2021, travel between individual regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except to return to one’s primary legal residence. For this entire period, travel to second homes in other regions or autonomous provinces is prohibited.
• On 25 and 26 December 2020 and 1 January 2021, leaving one’s municipality is totally prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. On these days, it is not only prohibited to travel to second homes in other regions or provinces, as aforementioned, but ALSO in other municipalities.
• An extended curfew is in place for New Year’s Eve only: from 22:00 on 31 December to 7:00 on 1 January.
For any clarifications on the content of the new decree, please visit the host government website at the following LINK, which will be updated shortly to take into account the latest provisions.
*From within the EU:
Note: Italy adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Italy are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Until 15th January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing.
Until 6th January, those wishing to fly must present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. You must also take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy – arrivals by air from the UK will take this test at the airport. Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local health authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
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Travellers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore are allowed to enter for any reason (including tourism).
For travellers coming from third countries not belonging to the previous list, travel is allowed only for specific reasons, such as work, health or study or in general absolute urgency.
Third-country travellers can also enter Italy if they have a proven and stable affective relationship with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or with people who are legally resident in Italy and if they are travelling to their partners’ home/domicile/dwelling.
In all the described cases, travellers have to:
- provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers;
- self-isolate for 14 days and undergo supervision by the competent local Health authority;
- reach their final destination in Italy only by private vehicle (airport transit is allowed, however without leaving the dedicated areas of the terminal).
To know more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Italy: All travellers entering Italy must comply with the regulations of the region they are visiting. Public transport links may be less frequent and seating limited to comply with social distancing measures. Masks must be worn on board public services. Taxi and car hire options are widely available. Rail services are returning to their usual timetables, but there are still some reduced domestic services and international travel is limited. Some cross-border bus companies have cancelled their services. Passenger ferry schedules remain subject to change and cancellations. Speak to your tour operator or transport provider for the latest information. More information on all these requirements is available from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the European Union’s Re-Open EU page.
Many Italian Regions (14 out of 20) have postponed the start date of in-person teaching activities for secondary schools (high schools), originally scheduled to be resumed on 11 January 2021.
High schools in Lazio, Piedmont, Liguria and Apulia will start in-person teaching on 18 January, Umbria on 23 January, Lombardy and Emilia Romagna on 25 January, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Marche, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia on 1 February.
In effect from Sunday, 10 January. Please recall that in line with the last decree, a reclassification of regions has been made. Orange Zone restrictions are applicable to the entire country on weekends until 15 January.
Therefore, the following classifications are for the remaining days of the week:
• Red Zones: There are no red zones
• Orange Zones: Zones classified as having an ‘elevated’ risk have the below additional lockdown measures in place. These regions have been established as the following: Calabria, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Sicily and Veneto.
• Nobody is allowed in or out of the region, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the latest decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Yellow zones: Zones classified as having a ‘moderate’ risk have the standard measures in place (listed below), but recall that until 15 January travel between regions remains prohibited except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. All remaining regions are Yellow zones.
As a reminder, the standard measures in place across the entire country, as per the 3 December legislative decree continue to be:
Curfew: Between 22:00-5:00, exclusively persons with valid work (e.g. commuting to/from work), health or other urgent reasons may be out. Such persons will need to be prepared to justify their outing through a self-certification form available here. In any case, it is strongly recommended at any point of the day that persons do not leave their homes except for work, health or other urgent reasons OR to engage in physical activity or to make use of any ongoing services.
• Masks: It continues to be mandatory to have a mask on one’s person at all times, to be worn in public both in enclosed areas and outdoors, except in cases where social distancing is continuously guaranteed. Exceptions to this requirement apply for children under the age of 6 and for persons with medical conditions incompatible with the use of a mask. Masks also do not need to be worn when engaging in physical activity or while consuming food or beverages. The use of masks is strongly recommended in one’s own residence in the presence of visitors.
• Social distancing continues to be required; 1 meter interpersonal distance at all times!
• The use of masks is in addition to existing social distancing and careful hand washing measures, which continue to be priorities.
• Self-isolation continues to be mandatory for persons exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever (above 37.5 degrees); such individuals must remain at home and contact their doctor.
• Remote working continues to be recommended where it is possible.
• Food services (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops): continue to be allowed between 5:00-18:00. Tables may have a maximum of 4 occupants, but this limit does not apply where all occupants live together. After 18:00, the consumption of food or beverages is prohibited in spaces open to the public (whether indoors or outdoors) and delivery services continue to be allowed. Takeaway services are allowed until 22:00, with consumption of takeaway at or near establishments being prohibited.
• Events:
• Sports events: of national or international interest may continue, but without the presence of an audience.
• Theaters, concert halls, and cinemas are closed. Both indoor and outdoor shows are banned.
• Conferences and conventions may only take place through remote modalities. Public entities will exclusively hold meetings through remote modalities and private entities are strongly recommended to follow suit.
• Parties: Parties are prohibited, including those following civil or religious ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that visitors are not received in private residences, except for work or emergencies.
• Trade shows and exhibitions of any nature are prohibited.
• The following types of venues are closed:
• Streets or squares in urban centers prone to the formation of crowds may be closed all or part of the day, though allowing access to legitimate commercial activities and private residences.
• Shopping centers, malls, and markets on weekends and holidays; pharmacies, newsstands, tobacco shops and shops selling foodstuffs inside shopping centers and markets may remain open.
• Gyms, pools, sports centers, Wellness centers, and spas. Cultural and recreational centers may continue to operate with any gym or pool areas closed. Sports activities may continue to be carried out in outdoors sports centers and clubs as long as social distancing requirements are respected and the use of their locker rooms/changing rooms is prohibited.
• Museums and other cultural institutions
• Ski areas
• Amusement parks
• Arcades, betting rooms, bingo halls, and casinos (and such activities are prohibited in any other type of facility)
• Dance halls and nightclubs whether indoors or outdoors.
• Public parks and gardens: continue to be open to the public so long as gatherings and crowds are strictly avoided.
• Outdoor exercise: May be conducted in public parks and using public exercise equipment, so long as an interpersonal distance of 2 meters is respected during sports activities and 1 meter for all other physical activities. Contact sports are allowed only for professional leagues and leagues recognized by the national Olympic committee.
• Contact sports: Training for children and youth’s amateur leagues for contact sports is allowed on an individual basis only; no matches are allowed. No contact sport activities of a purely recreational nature are allowed.
• Public protests: are allowed only in static form and if social distancing is respected.
• Libraries may continue to operate, offering their services on the basis of appointments.
• Services to individuals may continue to be allowed as long as safety protocols are followed and only if regions determine that their operation is compatible with epidemiological trends within their territories.
• Public transit: Trains, trams, and buses may be filled to a maximum of 50% capacity.
Italy Latest News: Latest Government Decree puts whole country in a red zone again, meaning people must not travel within their own towns, between towns, or between regions without a valid reason. Bars and restaurants are closed, as well as all businesses except food stores, pharmacies, news agents, laundrettes and hairdressers. Curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., and everyone arriving from overseas must quarantine for 14 days on arrival (New Europe News, 05.01.2021); Alitalia will resume daily flights to, from London on 24 December (Reuters, 23.12.2020).
Travellers from the UK: The Ministry of Health has signed an ordinance banning travel to and from the UK. It is in effect between 20 December 2020 – 6 January 2021. Any persons in Italy who have been in or traveled through the UK in the past 14 days are required to immediately report their arrival to the competent health authorities and take a molecular or antigenic COVID-19 test. This decision comes after the discovery of a new strain of COVID-19 in the UK. Several other European countries are applying similar measures. Please note that for detailed and specific requirements for entering Italy you should visit and consult this LINK from the Italian Ministry of foreign Affairs, which will be updated shortly in accordance with the provisions of the latest ordinance.
The Italian Government has issued an additional decree covering 7-15 January 2021. It tightens measures further for the remainder of the period of the last DPCM and is in effect from today.
Its main points are as follows:
• Between 7-15 January, travel between regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. However, travel between regions or autonomous provinces is always allowed for the purpose of returning to one’s legal residence. It is underlined that such travel is prohibited for visiting second homes.
• Between 7-15 January, Orange Zone restrictions will be applicable throughout the entire country on weekends. These additional restrictions are the following:
o Leaving one’s municipality is prohibited, except for except for work, health or other urgent reasons. However, for persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
o Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Throughout the entire period, it is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region, no more than once a day. Curfew must continue to be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14 or any other persons who are unable to care for themselves.
• The reopening of secondary schools (high schools) has been postponed to 11 January and in-person activities must only be guaranteed for 50% of students.
The decree finally amends the criteria for the classification of regions. In regions where there are more than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants:
• Orange Zone classification when Rt is between 1 and 1.25. There is sustained growth in the number of cases, corresponding with an increase in hospitalizations. Such a scenario would not overwhelm the healthcare system for at least 2-4 months, if sustained.
• Red Zone classification when Rt is between 1.25-1.5. Such a scenario would overwhelm the healthcare system within 2-3 months, if sustained.
The latest Italian Government legislative decree tightens measures over the upcoming winter holidays and is effective from 19 December 2020, provides that:
On 24-27 December 2020, 31 December 2020 – 3 January 2021, and 5-6 January 2021, the entire country is a Red Zone with the following measures applicable:
• All movements are prohibited (either within the region or in/out of the region) except for work, health or other urgent reasons; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through red zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed. The usual self-certification form (attached) will be required for all movements.
• Commercial activities are suspended, with the exception of those selling foodstuffs and basic necessities. Markets are also closed, with the exception of stands exclusively selling foodstuffs. Newsstands, tobacco shops, and pharmacies remain open.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
• Outdoor sports clubs and centers are closed.
• Individual outdoor exercise is exclusively allowed in the near vicinity of one’s residence and with the use of a mask.
• Personal services are suspended, with the exception of laundromats/dry cleaners, funeral homes, hair salons, and barbers.
• Public employers shall reduce in-person activities to those that cannot be postponed and cannot be performed remotely.
On 28-30 December and 4 January, the entire country is an Orange Zone with the following measures applicable:
• Travel between regions is not allowed, except for work, health or other urgent reasons; for school attendance as allowed by the present decree; or to return to one’s legal residence. Passing through orange zones to reach one’s legal residence is allowed.
• Likewise, leaving one’s municipality is also not allowed, except for the above stated reasons.
• Foodservice activities (including cafes, restaurants, pubs, ice cream parlors, and pastry shops) are suspended. However, delivery continues to be allowed at all times and takeaway until 22:00. Foodservice activities at rest stops along highways, in hospitals, and in airports may continue.
Violations of these restrictions are punishable by fines between 400-1,000 EUR.
The following dispensations are specified in the decree:
• For persons in towns with less than 5000 inhabitants, travel is allowed within a 30km radius, but not to provincial capitals.
• It is possible to visit one other private residence within the same region between 5am and 10pm, no more than once a day. Curfew must be respected. A maximum of two persons may make such journeys, plus any children in their household under the age of 14.
The decree clarifies that between 24 December – 6 January all the other standard measures from the 3 December 2020 decree remain in place across the country. In particular, you are reminded that the following remains in effect:
• From 21 December 2020 to 6 January 2021, travel between individual regions and autonomous provinces is prohibited, except to return to one’s primary legal residence. For this entire period, travel to second homes in other regions or autonomous provinces is prohibited.
• On 25 and 26 December 2020 and 1 January 2021, leaving one’s municipality is totally prohibited, except for work, health, or other urgent reasons. On these days, it is not only prohibited to travel to second homes in other regions or provinces, as aforementioned, but ALSO in other municipalities.
• An extended curfew is in place for New Year’s Eve only: from 22:00 on 31 December to 7:00 on 1 January.
For any clarifications on the content of the new decree, please visit the host government website at the following LINK, which will be updated shortly to take into account the latest provisions.
*From within the EU:
From 21 December to 6 January, EU travellers arriving in Italy for non-essential reasons (for example, for tourism) are subject to fiduciary isolation and health surveillance for 14 days.
Specific and updated rules for each country of origin are available at ViaggiareSicuri
Mandatory Travel Documentation
All persons travelling to Italy from any foreign location are required to provide a self-declaration to the carrier or, upon request, to law enforcement officers.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
Viaggiare Sicuri
Contact point for Italy:
Online Inquiries
Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit:
Anyone (regardless of nationality) can transit by private means through the Italian territory for a period not exceeding 36 hours, with the obligation, at the end of that period, to leave the national territory immediately or, failing that, to begin the period of surveillance and fiduciary isolation.
Find out more:
Esteri.it: Italian nationals returning to Italy and foreigners in Italy
*From Third Countries:
Until 15th January, entry into Italy from the UK is only permitted for those with official residency in Italy or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing.
Until 6th January, those wishing to fly must present the airline with a negative Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. You must also take a Covid-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test on arrival in Italy – arrivals by air from the UK will take this test at the airport. Whatever the result of the two swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local health authorities on arrival and must quarantine for 14 days.
See also:
Commission adopts Recommendation