Understanding Italy’s Green Pass Requirements for Travel

The Italian government has confirmed that starting September 1, individuals need to present proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19, or a recent negative test to access public transport in Italy. Since August 6, the same COVID pass, or green pass, has been required for entry into indoor venues such as restaurants and museums.

What is a Green Pass?

A green pass is essentially a vaccine passport or health pass that has grown in popularity as countries develop solutions for allowing safe operations of non-essential businesses during the pandemic. Denmark was the first European country to launch a COVID-19 pass scheme, permitting fully vaccinated people, as well as those who test negative or have recovered from the virus, entry into indoor public spaces. France and Spain adopted similar health passes, while New York City introduced a comparable scheme to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in venues.

Where Do I Need to Present It in Italy?

In Italy, the green pass is an extension of the EU digital COVID-19 certificate. People must present it to access indoor spaces such as museums, football stadiums, gyms, theme parks, spas, swimming pools, and theaters. Additionally, it is required to dine indoors at bars and restaurants.

On Tuesday, the Italian government announced that starting September 1, the green pass will also be required for public transport access, including trains, planes, buses, and ferries.

The introduction of the green pass aims to promote vaccination rates, particularly as the Delta variant spreads across Italy. It can be presented in either digital or paper format. In Italy, it certifies that the holder has received at least one dose of the vaccine (AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson), has tested negative in the previous 48 hours, or has recovered from COVID-19 in the last six months.

How Can Tourists Access Italy’s Green Pass?

Tourists traveling to Italy from EU countries must present the EU digital COVID-19 certificate upon entry. This certificate allows access to various venues under the green pass scheme. For vaccinated individuals, completing the vaccine course is necessary.

Italy welcomes tourists from low-risk non-EU countries, including the US, Japan, and Canada. Travelers from these countries must show proof of vaccination with a health document compliant with EU and Italian regulations. For Americans, this is typically the ‘white card’ with the CDC logo. According to the US Embassy in Italy, these vaccination cards are accepted for entry into spaces requiring the green pass.

The Italian government has also confirmed acceptance of official COVID documents from Canada, the UK, Japan, and Israel for tourists. If travelers are not vaccinated, they must provide proof of a PCR or antigen test conducted within the previous 48 hours. It is advisable to check current government guidelines before traveling. More information on the green pass can be found on official government websites.

This article was first published on July 23 and updated on August 10, 2021.