{"metadata":{"generated":{"timestamp":1710942502,"date":"2024-03-20 09:48:22"}},"data":{"country-iso":"IT","advisory-state":0,"has-advisory-warning":0,"has-regional-advisory":0,"has-content":1,"update-metadata":"Editorial change","eng":{"name":"Italy","url-slug":"italy","geo-group":"Europe","flag":null,"friendly-date":"March 20, 2024 09:47 EDT","advisory-text":"Exercise normal security precautions","recent-updates":"The Need help? section was updated.","advisories":"
Take normal security precautions<\/a> in Italy<\/p><\/div>","security":" Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, and tourists are frequently targeted.<\/p> Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active:<\/p> While you’re in Italy:<\/p> The theft of items from vehicles is common, and thieves often target rental cars. They may use distraction techniques or simulate accidents. Thefts can occur at gas stations, highway service areas, and parking lots.<\/p> Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights. Thieves on scooters or on foot often snatch bags from passenger seats.<\/p> Thefts on public transportation and passenger trains are common, particularly on those servicing major tourist sites, main cities and airports. Thieves will often steal your belongings while you’re asleep or distracted and may hassle or crowd you.<\/p> Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.<\/p> Home burglaries occur mainly in main cities and coastal areas and sometimes affect holiday rental accommodation.<\/p> Whether staying in private or commercial accommodation, make sure you lock windows and doors at night and when you are away.<\/p> Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.<\/p> If you are a victim of a theft, go to the nearest police station (Carabinieri or Polizia di Stato) to report it. Keep a copy of your report, as you may need it to make a claim to your insurance provider.<\/p> It’s possible to file a preliminary complaint online, in Italian, for certain types of minor crimes, such as theft of belongings. This could help speed up the process at the police station.<\/p> If you are a victim of sexual assault:<\/p> Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.<\/p> When using debit or credit cards:<\/p> Cybercrime occurs. Criminals may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.<\/p> Overseas fraud<\/a><\/p> There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.<\/p> Targets could include:<\/p> Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.<\/p> The Government of Italy maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated mainly through local media. Enhanced security measures are also deployed in various strategic locations and transport hubs.<\/p> Expect an increased presence of police and military forces during holidays and in public places, including tourist locations and major landmarks.<\/p> Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly, particularly in larger cities and often with little notice.<\/p> Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.<\/p> Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always take into account warning flags at beaches.<\/p> In the fall and winter months, be cautious when walking on the shore, as waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.<\/p> Water safety abroad<\/a><\/p> If you intend to go hiking, mountaineering or skiing:<\/p> Information on avalanche risk<\/a> - Meteomont, Arma dei Carabinieri<\/p> Stray dogs are common in certain areas.<\/p> Don’t approach or feed them as they could be aggressive.<\/p> Road conditions and road safety vary throughout the country.<\/p> City streets can be narrow and congested. Signage, traffic lights and road markings may not be visible, especially in the southern areas of the country.<\/p> In mountainous areas, roads are often winding and narrow. Weather conditions can make driving conditions dangerous. Avalanches or landslides can occur and block access routes to small isolated towns. In northern Italy, particularly in winter, fog can substantially reduce visibility.<\/p> Drivers do not always respect traffic laws. They may drive at excessive speeds and be reckless.<\/p> The quality and availability of public transportation vary across the country.<\/p> In urban areas, buses can be over capacity during rush hours, impacting your transit time. Metro stations are sometimes closed for maintenance. Strike actions may also affect train service.<\/p> The inter-city train system is extensive, well-connected and reliable.<\/p> In Italy, drivers start the meter at the point of departure rather than at pick-up. Ride-sharing services are available but may operate differently.<\/p> Use only officially licensed taxis from a stand or requested by phone or app.<\/p> We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.<\/p> Information about foreign domestic airlines<\/a><\/p>","entry-exit":" Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.<\/p> We have obtained the information on this page from the Italian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.<\/p> Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada<\/a>.<\/p> Italy is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.<\/p> If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.<\/p> Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.<\/p> Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.<\/p> Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.<\/span><\/p> Different entry rules may apply.<\/p> Official travel<\/a><\/p> While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period<\/span> Information for foreign nationals<\/a> - Polizia di Stato, Italy’s national police<\/p> Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.<\/p> If you plan to spend fewer than 90 days in Italy for visits, business, tourism or study, you don’t need to apply for a residence permit. However, you must report your presence in the country. Commercial accommodations will generally file the declaration on your behalf, but you are responsible for making sure it's done. Request a copy of this record.<\/p> If you’re staying in a non-commercial accommodation and:<\/p> Failure to comply with this regulation could result in expulsion.<\/p> Entering Italy<\/a> - Polizia di Stato, Italy’s national police<\/p> Learn more about travelling with children<\/a>.<\/p> Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever <\/a>(vaccines section).<\/p>","health":" This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.<\/p> Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Be sure that your routine vaccinations<\/a>, as per your province or territory<\/a>, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.<\/p>\n Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. <\/p> Yellow fever<\/a> is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.<\/p>\n Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.<\/p>\n Risk<\/strong><\/p>\n Country Entry Requirement*<\/strong><\/p>\n Recommendation<\/strong><\/p>\n * It is important to note that country entry requirements<\/a> may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office<\/a> of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.<\/p>\n About Yellow Fever<\/a><\/p>\n Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada<\/a><\/p><\/details> Tick-borne encephalitis<\/a> (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.<\/p>\n Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.<\/p>\n Protect yourself from tick bites<\/a>. The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.<\/p><\/details> Measles<\/a> is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/p>\n Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.<\/p>\n Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.<\/p><\/details> Hepatitis B<\/a> is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B<\/a> infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.<\/p><\/details> Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) <\/a><\/span>is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/span><\/p>\n It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally. <\/span><\/p>\n Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry\/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19. <\/span><\/p><\/details> The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza<\/a> (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot<\/a> at least 2 weeks before travelling. <\/p>\n The flu occurs worldwide. <\/p>\n The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.<\/p>\n The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.<\/p><\/details> In this destination, rabies<\/a> may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. <\/p>\n If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. <\/p>\n Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. <\/p><\/details> Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.<\/p>\n <\/p> Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:<\/p>\n To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention<\/a> page.<\/p>\n Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.<\/p> Some infections, such as rabies<\/a> and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.<\/p>\n Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.<\/p>\n Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.<\/p>\n <\/p> Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette<\/a>, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu<\/a> and other illnesses by:<\/p>\n Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)<\/a>, HIV<\/a>, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority<\/a> pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine. <\/p> Good health care is available throughout the country. However, hospital services may be limited in rural areas and medical staff may not be able to communicate in English or French.<\/p> Medical treatment and emergency room visits are free of charge but only for life-threatening emergencies, as determined by the treating physician. Hospitals charge upfront for any convalescence or follow-up care.<\/p> There are also numerous private clinics and hospitals that cater to foreign travellers.<\/p> Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.<\/p> Travel health and safety<\/a><\/p> The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.<\/p>\n Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a <\/span>travel health kit<\/a>, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.<\/p>","laws-culture":" You must abide by local laws.<\/p> Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad<\/a>.<\/p> Canada and Italy are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Italy to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Italy authorities.<\/p> This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.<\/p> Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.<\/p> Drugs, alcohol and travel<\/a><\/p> Certain municipalities, particularly those with a high number of visitors, such as Rome, Florence and Venice, have adopted strict public conduct rules. Certain behaviours are illegal and may include:<\/p> Comply with public notices about conduct, which are usually found in and around tourist areas in major cities. You may be fined if you fail to do so.<\/p> Buying counterfeit merchandise, such as sunglasses or purses, is illegal. You may receive heavy fines if you’re caught buying counterfeit merchandise.<\/p> Removing pebbles, shells, or sand from the beaches in Sardinia and other coastal regions is prohibited.<\/p> In mountainous areas, it’s illegal to cut certain types of endangered flowers.<\/p> Avoid removing natural objects and flora from their natural setting. You could be fined if you do.<\/p> Photography of military installations and critical infrastructure is regulated.<\/p> Request permission from local authorities before taking photographs of such installations.<\/p> Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated.<\/p> You must register your drone to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.<\/p> Authorities may request to see your ID at any time.<\/p> Hotels and other commercial accommodation providers must provide the Italian authorities with personal details on their guests. As such, you’ll have to present a passport upon check-in.<\/p> Wait at the reception until the hotel staff has taken the required from your passport.<\/p> Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Italy.<\/p> If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Italy, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry\/exit requirements<\/a>.<\/p> Travellers with dual citizenship<\/a><\/p> The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Italy.<\/p> If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Italy, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Italian court.<\/p> If you are in this situation:<\/p> If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.<\/p> Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.<\/p> You may drive for up to one year with a valid Canadian driver’s licence and an international driving permit or a certified translation of your Canadian licence.<\/p> You must also have an international car insurance plan.<\/p> If driving a foreign car, an adhesive sticker indicating country of origin must be displayed on the back of the car. It’s illegal to drive a vehicle registered abroad for more than 60 days. If you plan to stay in Italy for more than 60 days, you must obtain Italian plates.<\/p> Vehicles must be equipped with safety equipment, including a warning triangle and reflective jacket.<\/p> Local authorities may request immediate cash payment for minor traffic violations.<\/p> Historic centres of many Italian cities have restricted traffic zones marked as ZTL, which stands for “Zona Traffico Limitato”, or low-emission zones, to reduce air pollution.<\/p> You need a special permit to access limited traffic zones. This permit is usually issued to residents. To be granted access to a low-emission zone, your car must meet certain environmental standards. Authorities may use cameras to record the licence plate of vehicles that violate these restrictions.<\/p> If you enter these zones without a permit, you could be fined. If your vehicle is rented, the rental agency could receive the fine and provide your contact details to the local authorities.<\/p> Some municipalities use the services of a private company to collect the fines abroad. You could receive traffic tickets by mail several months after returning to Canada.<\/p> Rules on the mandatory use of snow tires or snow chains differ regionally. Pay attention to road signage in mountainous regions or other parts of the country prone to snow.<\/p> Certain islands restrict or prohibit the entry and use of vehicles belonging to non-residents during the high tourism season and holiday season. These include:<\/p> Other islands could enforce similar regulations. Confirm before travelling.<\/p> On route 163 of the Amalfi Coast, between Positano and Vietri sul Mare, it’s prohibited to use campervans or large recreational vehicles.<\/p> You must purchase bus, metro and tram tickets in advance at kiosks in stations or at tobacco shops and validate them at machines located on board or in the station.<\/p> If you don’t validate your ticket, you may receive a fine requiring immediate payment.<\/p> The currency of Italy is the euro (EUR).<\/p> Payment in cash is restricted to transactions under €1000.<\/p> If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:<\/p> This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.<\/p> EU cash controls<\/a> - European Commission<\/p>","disasters-climate":" Forest and maquis fires often occur during the summer months, particularly in Sicily, Calabria and Sardinia.<\/p> The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.<\/p> In case of a major fire:<\/p> In fall and winter, strong rainfall and winds may cause landslides and flash flooding, resulting in significant damage in coastal regions and certain cities such as:<\/p> The Italian Civil Protection Department publishes weather alerts on its website.<\/p> Latest alerts <\/a>- Italian Civil Protection Department<\/p> Venice is subject to tidal flooding (acqua alta), particularly during fall and spring. During episodes of severe flooding, some streets and squares become impassable, and certain businesses and landmarks may temporarily suspend their activities. Local authorities typically install raised pedestrian platforms to facilitate crossing in strategic locations.<\/p> The city of Venice warns citizens and tourists of episodes of high tide through a system of acoustic alerts.<\/p> In case of high tide:<\/p> In mountainous areas, avalanches present a risk. They can make roads impassable and cause power disruptions. These conditions can affect access to isolated areas, including tourist resorts, and limit the ability of emergency services to respond.<\/p> If you plan on skiing or mountaineering:<\/p>Crime<\/h3>
Petty crime<\/h4>
On the road<\/h4>
On public transportation<\/h4>
Home break-ins<\/h4>
Spiked food and drinks<\/h4>
Victims of crime<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Fraud<\/h3>
Credit card and ATM fraud<\/h4>
Cybercrime<\/h4>
Terrorism<\/h3>
Demonstrations and strikes<\/h3>
Useful links<\/h4>
Swimming and water activities<\/h3>
Mountain activities<\/h3>
Stray dogs<\/h3>
Road safety<\/h3>
Public transportation<\/h3>
Taxis<\/h4>
Air travel<\/h3>
Schengen area<\/h3>
Useful links<\/h4>
Passport<\/h3>
Regular Canadian passport<\/h4>
Passport for official travel<\/h4>
Passport with “X” gender identifier<\/h4>
Other travel documents<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Visas<\/h3>
Business visa: not required for stays up 90 days
Work visa: required
Student visa: required<\/p>Other entry requirements<\/h3>
Declaration of presence<\/h3>
Children and travel<\/h3>
Yellow fever<\/h3>
Relevant Travel Health Notices<\/h3>
Routine vaccines<\/h3>\n
Pre-travel vaccines and medications<\/h3>\n
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements <\/summary>
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Tick-borne encephalitis<\/summary>
Measles <\/summary>
Hepatitis B<\/summary>
COVID-19<\/summary>
Influenza<\/summary>
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Rabies <\/summary>
Safe food and water precautions<\/h3>\n
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Insect bite prevention<\/h3>\n
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Dengue <\/summary>
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Animal precautions<\/h3>\n
Person-to-person infections<\/h3>\n
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Medical services and facilities<\/h3>
Keep in Mind...<\/h3>\n
Transfer to a Canadian prison<\/h3>
Drugs<\/h3>
Public behaviour<\/h3>
Counterfeit merchandise<\/h3>
Natural objects and flora<\/h3>
Photography<\/h3>
Drones<\/h3>
Useful links<\/h4>
Identification<\/h3>
Dual citizenship<\/h3>
International Child Abduction<\/h3>
Useful links<\/h4>
Driving<\/h3>
Limited traffic zones and low-emission zones<\/h4>
Seasonal and regional regulations<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Public transportation<\/h3>
Money<\/h3>
Wildfires<\/h3>
Storms and flooding<\/h3>
Acqua alta<\/h3>
Useful links<\/h4>
Avalanches<\/h3>