Many people are asking can you travel to Italy in 2024. In this article we outline the conditions for travel to Italy, protocols required on arrival and what to expect when you get there. We will continue to update this page as the situation changes. We do not speculate on the prospects for changes in legislation or on any health related matter.
Last updated: October 1st, 2024
Please note that as information can change quickly particularly with respect to different country advisories please check your own government travel advisories and call the Italian embassy in your country for specific information relating to your unique circumstances. We have provided links to these sources below.
You should also check your airline requirements as, depending on the route taken, any stop-overs and specific airline procedures, different protocols may apply.
What are the rules for travel to Italy for tourists?
This page is to assist travelers who have planned leisure or tourist trips to Italy. Different rules and regulations may apply if your travel relates to other purposes such as business, family reasons etc. While every effort is made to keep this page up to date, please check advice from your airline and local authorities for the latest information that applies to your situation.
Entry requirements to Italy in 2024
To enter Italy, visitors must:
- Have a minimum of 3 months validity on their passport
- Have a current and valid visa if required (no visa or visa waiver is currently required for citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, or European Union)
- There is no requirement to show proof of covid-19 vaccination
Documents required on entry to Italy
All passengers need to show proof of:
- Your valid passport
PLUS
- Visa if required
Do I need a visa to enter Italy?
Citizens of most countries including the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK can travel to Italy and wider Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. You can check the visa requirements for your country on this Italian government website.
EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
In late 2024 the European Union (of which Italy is a member) will introduce new standardized set of biometric tests including fingerprints and facial photographs, in addition to passport details currently collected on entry into Italy. This process applies to third-country nationals (non-EU or Schengen Zone citizens) such as visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom on entering and exiting the European Union.
On arrival into Italy from outside the EU, it is expected that you will present your passport and complete the necessary biometric tests and other questions relating to your stay in Italy at a kiosk in the airport terminal. This process is expected to take around 2 minutes to complete and is not expected to impact processing time at the airport.
There has been no official date announced for the EES however it is expected to be implemented in late October 2024
ETIAS Travel Authorization – expected early 2025
The European Union including Italy has announced they will introduce a new travel authorization process called ETIAS for visitors from the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and 60 other countries starting in 2025. There is no confirmed start date for this new process which has already been delayed many years.
Once active, visitors to Europe will need to visit an online site to complete their application and pay a small fee of around €7 per person. The process is expected to take minutes with application approvals also expected to take minutes. There is more information on the official European Union ETIAS website.
The European Union has not confirmed when this process will come into place. We will update this page as more information becomes available.
Venice Tourist Tax
In 2024 the city of Venice is introducing a new tourist tax aimed at day trippers to the city. The €5 per person, per day fee applies on certain days of the year and visitors must be able to show proof of payment OR exemption if asked by authorities or risk a fine. Exemptions apply for those staying overnight in Venice, children under 14 and people with a disability.
Here is the official site for paying the tax or applying for your exemption. You can read more about the Venice tourist tax on this page of our website
Do I need to take a Covid-19 test to enter Italy?
Covid testing is no longer required to enter Italy
FAQ about travel to Italy in 2024
Is Italy allowing international visitors to enter the country?
Yes, Italy welcomes visitors in 2024 provided you meet all entry requirements for your nationality and/or country of residence. To check what the situation is for your country of residence and nationality, please go to this Italian government website that aims to clarify the situation for you. You can also find a good summary of information for tourists at the Italian Tourist Board.
What is the latest guidance on travel to Italy from my country?
Currently the following advisories are in place. While every effort is made to keep this information current it is best to check with your country travel advisory in the “read more” links below.
- United States – Level 2 – Exercise increased caution – read more
- United Kingdom – Exercise caution – travel info.
- Australia – The Department of Foreign Affairs advises Australians to exercise a normal degree of caution in Italy – read more
- Canada – Take normal precautions in Italy – read more
- New Zealand – Exercise increased caution in Italy (level 2 of 4) – read more
Citizens of countries not on this list should refer to their country foreign affairs department.
Should I buy travel insurance to cover my trip?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all international travel however many travel insurance companies will not cover your trip for cancelations or health problems related to known health conditions. Check all policy inclusions carefully before purchasing insurance.
There are many reasons to take out travel insurance for Italy – you can read about them in this article.
No matter what decision you make, ensure you understand the risks associated with not having insurance and read the terms and conditions carefully should you decide to purchase a policy.
Recommended official websites for up to date information
- National travel advisory services
- Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – for up to date visa requirement and travel information
- European Union – information on the official European Union ETIAS website and current Schengen area rules
- IATA Travel Center – the International Air Travel Association’s site for up to date travel information used by airlines
- Italian Tourism Board – latest information for tourists on visiting Italy at this time (site in English)