If you’re thinking of traveling to Italy, you should prepare to go through some formalities. While multiple tests are no longer necessary to enter the country, you may need to do a little more planning. If you’re planning on traveling by bus or subway, you should know that face masks are required on the buses and trains. It’s also a good idea to get a super green pass, which will save you time and money.
COVID-19 related entry restrictions into Italy
The Italian government has extended COVID-19 related entry restrictions for travelers. This measure was imposed in the first quarter of 2021. Despite the restrictions, infection rates continue to rise. In the past seven days, the World Health Organization has reported 119,645 new cases and 642 deaths in Italy. In addition, Italy has reported 27 cases of the COVID-19 variant Omicron. The latest updates on COVID-19 related entry restrictions are available on the Italian government website.
Travellers from certain countries are no longer required to have green passes to enter Italy. However, super green passes are required until 2022. Travelers will still need to wear face masks to enter enclosed public spaces and use their hands to avoid catching the illness. The Italian government maintains guidance in English for travelers. As of May 17, U.S. citizens returning from Italy no longer need to provide a negative Covid-19 test to enter the country.
Face masks required on public transportation
The Italian government has approved an extension of the mandatory use of face masks on public transport until June 15. The new law requires masks on long-distance buses, regional trains, subways, ferries, planes, and high-speed trains. While the extension of the mask mandate may be a temporary measure, it could be extended to other public places. In the meantime, Italian commuters should consider wearing their masks when traveling in cities.
While France has removed the requirement for face masks on public transportation, many other EU countries continue to require them. France, for example, recently eased its mandatory mask requirement on public transportation, but not on flights. Meanwhile, Italy still requires them on public transportation, in hospitals, and at cinemas. But it is worth noting that some cities have implemented their own rules. Here are some of them:
Testing for COVID-19 before travel
Testing for COVID-19 before travel to the country is mandatory for European Union citizens. Travelers from those countries must present negative results of a COVID-19 molecular test or antigen test upon arrival in Italy. Negative tests can be obtained by performing a nasal swab or by PCR. Passengers are required to get a COVID-19 test before leaving their home country and should do so at least 72 hours prior to traveling. In addition, passengers from certain countries must have a PCR test before departure, and an additional test after a five-day isolation period.
Because of the high rates of the infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Italy. It recommends that Americans stay home from the country unless they’ve had the COVID-19 vaccine. The Department of State has also recommended increased caution due to the potential risk of terrorism. Additionally, more protective masks will be required on trains and in hospitals until 2022.
Getting a super green pass
Getting a super green pass to Italy is easy, but there are some things to know before you buy one. First, you must be protected from the Covid 19 virus. This is the worst thing to catch in Italy. You should get vaccinated and then bring a copy of your vaccination certificate. Getting a Super Green Pass is a necessity for those who want to visit museums in Italy. It is also useful to know the vaccination history of your companion.
Second, you should have a passport with vaccination records. Italy recently tightened up its restrictions against the Covid virus. It also requires all public transport users to wear more protective FFP2 masks. Third, the country has declared some areas as yellow zones. Visitors to these regions will be subject to stricter restrictions and might even be quarantined for 5 days. While these changes are beneficial for the environment, they may cause problems for many visitors.