Italy drops test requirement for foreign travelers starting June 1
Travel to Italy will now be free of any requirements for the first time since the pandemic.
Italy, a bucket list destination for Filipino travelers, is reportedly dropping its vaccination requirements for foreign travelers regardless of their country of origin.
The Press Office of the Ministry of Health announced on Monday (May 30) that the country's Green Pass measure will not be extended beyond May 31.
“From June 1st stop green pass for entry into Italy. The ordinance of the Minister of Health which provides for the Green Certification Covid-19 (green pass) to enter Italy expires on May 31. The measure will not be extended,” the statement from the Ministry reads.
🇮🇹 As of tomorrow, travel to Italy will be restriction-free for the first time since the pandemic began reports @TheLocalItaly. ✈️ https://t.co/RJW7zNqW57 pic.twitter.com/1K2HJ4fWmv
— Henry Pryor (@HenryPryor) May 31, 2022
This means all travelers will be able to enter Italy without testing, regardless of whether or not they have been vaccinated starting June 1.
Previously, travelers headed for Italy had to comply with strict travel requirements, including proof of COVID-19 vaccination and negative COVID-19 test under the Green Certification COVID-19.
Unvaccinated travelers had to produce proof of recovery from COVID within the last 180 days or a negative COVID test. Until May, they had to quarantine for five days.
On April 28, the Ministry of Health issued a press release on the signed ordinance that "transposes the text of the amendment on the use of masks indoors" which means people are no longer required to wear their masks in bars, restaurants, museums, and supermarkets while going around.
As reported by Euronews, Italy was the first European country hit by coronavirus in early 2020 and has had some of the toughest restrictions, including requiring all workers to show a Green Pass.
With cases easing and the majority of the population already vaccinated, most measures were lifted. Face masks are still required in Italy on local and long-distance public transport, indoor events and shows, including cinemas, theatres, concert halls, and sports halls until June 15.
Philippine passport holders are still required to obtain a Schengen visa to enter any European country in the Schengen Zone, which includes Italy. For a full list of requirements for Italy visa and entry requirements, visit this site.