U.S. Embassy Rome

Via Vittorio Veneto, 121
00187 Rome, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 06-4674-1
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(39) 06-4674-1
Fax: +(39) 06-4674-2244
Email: uscitizensrome@state.gov
The Rome consular district includes the regions of Lazio, Marche, Umbria, Abruzzo, and Sardinia.

Consulates

U.S. Mission to the UN Agencies in Rome
Via Boncompagni, 2
Telephone: (+39) 06-4674-1
Emergency after-hours telephone: (+39) 06-4674-1
Fax: (+39) 06 4674-3535
Email: USUNRome@state.gov

U.S. Embassy to the Holy See
Via Sallustiana, 49
00162 Rome, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 06-4674-3428
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(39) 06-4674-1
Fax: +(39) 06-575-8346

U.S. Consulate General Florence
Lungarno Amerigo Vespucci, 38
50123 Florence, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 055-266-951
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(39) 055-266-951
Fax: +(39) 055-215-550
Email: uscitizensflorence@state.gov
The Florence consular district includes the regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna (all except the Provinces of Piacenza and Parma), as well as the Republic of San Marino.

U.S. Consulate General Milan
Via Principe Amedeo 2/10
20121 Milano, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 02-290-351
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(39) 02-290-351
Fax: +(39) 081-583-8275
Email: uscitizensmilan@state.gov
The Milan consular district includes the regions of Valle D'Aosta, Piemonte, Lombardia, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Liguria, and Emilia-Romagna (Provinces of Piacenza and Parma only).

U.S. Consulate General Naples
Piazza della Repubblica
80122 Naples, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 081-583-8111
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(39) 081-583-8111
Fax: +(39) 081-583-8275
Email: uscitizensnaples@state.gov
The Naples consular district includes the regions of Campania, Molise, Basilicata, Puglia, Calabria, and Sicilia.

U.S. Consular Agent - Genoa
Via Dante 2
16121 Genoa, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 010-584-492
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Milan.
Fax: +(39) 010-553-3033
Email: uscitizensgenoa@state.gov
Hours: Monday through Thursday 11:00 AM-3:00 PM, by appointment only.

U.S. Consular Agent - Palermo
Via G.B. Vaccarini 1
90143 Palermo, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 091-305-857
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Naples
Fax: +(39) 091-625-6026
Email: uscitizenspalermo@state.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM-12:30 PM by appointment only.

U.S. Consular Agent - Venice
Viale Galileo Galilei 30
30173 Tessera, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 041-541-5944
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Milan.
Fax: +(39) 041-541-6654
Email: uscitizensvenice@state.gov
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM, by appointment only.

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Helpful resources

• Embassy of Italy Visa Information
• Consulate General of Italy in New York
• Dual Nationality
• Prevention of International Child Abduction
• Customs Regulations
• Italian Customs

Traveling through Europe

If you plan to visit or travel through Europe, know the Schengen Agreement's requirements:

• Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the period of stay. Visit our U.S. Travelers in Europe page.
• You will need proof of sufficient funds and a return plane ticket.
• Passports and visas
• U.S. citizens must arrive at Italian ports of entry with a valid passport. This regulation is strictly enforced. If your passport has ever been reported as lost or stolen, or is expired, Italian authorities could deny you entry and return you immediately to the United States.
• U.S. citizens may enter Italy for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa.
• If you intend to live or stay in Italy for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a visa from an Italian Embassy or Consulate. Once in Italy, you must also obtain a permit of stay (permesso di soggiorno). You can get more information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Polizia di Stato.

HIV/AIDS restrictions

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Italy.

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  

Dial 112 for emergencies

Terrorism

Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack U.S. citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets.

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Airports
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains)

Politically motivated violence

This is most often connected to Italian internal political developments or social issues. Italian authorities and foreign diplomatic facilities have:

• Found bombs outside public buildings
• Received bomb threats
• Been targets of letter bombs and Molotov cocktails
• These attacks often happen at night. Although they have not targeted or injured U.S. citizens, you should remain aware of your surroundings. Report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

Crime

Italy has a moderate rate of crime. Although there are incidents of theft, violent crimes are rare. Pickpocketing, particularly in congested areas and on public transport, and break-ins of rented vehicles are common throughout the country.

Local Laws and Customs

U.S. citizens should be aware of the following local circumstances that could result in criminal penalties:

• Tourists can be fined or detained for buying counterfeit goods (usually fashion accessories), defacing historic monuments, and using aerial drones.
• Travelers must buy train, bus, or metro tickets at tobacco stores, kiosks, or through apps or SMS (short messaging service). Before boarding, you must validate your ticket at a machine (usually near the entrance). If you don't, an inspector may fine you. If you don’t pay right away, the fine will double and be sent to your home address.
• Some buses and trams accept onboard contactless payment (“tap to pay”) using a bank card or mobile digital wallet.
• Many cities in Italy have rules for fountains and monuments that ban activities like eating, drinking, sitting, or bathing. There are also restrictions on drinking alcohol after certain hours. Tourists should check each city's official website for more details.
• New laws make it illegal for Italians, including dual U.S.-Italian citizens, to travel outside Italy to use or arrange surrogacy. Breaking this law can result in up to 2 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million euros.

Theft
Most reported thefts in Italy occur at:

• Crowded tourist sites
• Public transportation (on buses, metros, and trains, and at major metro and railway stations)
• Airports
• Cars parked in city centers and tourist sites

General guidance to minimize the risk of theft:

• Be alert to criminal schemes.
• Organized groups of thieves and pickpockets operate at major tourist destinations, in train stations, bars, and cafes. Criminals may use drugs to assault or rob.
• Thieves on motor scooters regularly snatch purses or bags off pedestrians. Resisting can be dangerous.
• Park cars in well-lit areas; ensure doors and windows are locked. Do not leave personal possessions, including luggage and passports, in unattended vehicles.
• Never leave baggage unattended in a car, including in a closed trunk.
• Do not leave bags unattended in public places.

Italian railway advice for travelers.

ATMs

• To protect yourself from the risk of skimming devices at ATMs:
• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or secured inside a bank or business.
• Cover the keypad with one hand as you enter your PIN.
• Check for gaps, tampering, or other flaws between the ATM's metal faceplate and the card reader.
• Avoid card readers that are not flush with the face of the ATM.
• Closely check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. They can be anti-American in nature, especially near U.S. military bases. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Security Alerts for U.S. citizens pertaining to demonstrations can be found on the Embassy’s website.

International financial scams

Internet romance and financial scams are common throughout the world. Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams and learn how the FBI can help. 

Scams often start through Internet postings, profiles, or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to. Instead of helping, refer them to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. We will work with local authorities to assist them. 

Common scams include:

• Romance or online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent or relative targeting
• Free Trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits or job offers

Victims of crime

Dial 112 for the local police

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Visit our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

Victims of sexual assault are also encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at +39 06-4674-1.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.

Victim compensation in Italy

Italy pays victims of terrorism, organized crime, hit-and-run accidents, and violent crimes. To apply, file with the local Prefect's office (Prefettura) where the crime occurred. Provide details about the incident, including:

• Where the crime happened
• Date
• Location
• Injuries and losses resulting from the crime

U.S. citizen victims of crime in Italy should consult an Italian attorney for guidance on the legal process and victim compensation programs.

Domestic Violence

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the embassy or consulate of their destination for assistance.

Tourism
Tourism activities are generally regulated.

• Rules about general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country. In smaller cities and remote areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Technology use abroad

• Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safety practices:
• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving.
• Use reputable, U.S. based VPN/VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to unknown public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. Sometimes the shortest route is not the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Weather and Natural Disasters

The top 3 weather events in Italy are:

• Heatwaves – High temperatures, especially in summer, are common in the south.
• Thunderstorms – Heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds, mainly in spring and summer.
• Snowstorms – Common in northern and mountainous regions during winter.

These events are the most frequent and impactful in Italy. Weather varies by region. The north has more snow and cold. The south has hotter summers.

Natural disasters

• Civil Protection Italy
• Ready: Emergency Preparedness Campaign U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia

The Italian Civil Protection agency is well-equipped to help both Italians and visitors during natural disasters.

• Earthquakes: There are several major fault lines that cross Italy. Earthquakes are frequent.
• Flooding: High tides in Venice can cause flooding.
  
• Avalanches: Common in mountainous areas. May occasionally occur after heavy snowfall in the winter.
• Volcanoes: There are several active volcanoes, including Mt. Etna in eastern Sicily. Travelers to Sicily should be aware of the possibility of travel disruptions, including airport closures, in the event of volcanic activity. Italy has many other areas of potential volcanic activity, especially near Naples.

Any visit to an active volcano or volcanic field is risky. Eruptions can occur with little to no warning. Exercise caution, follow posted instructions, stay on authorized trails, and use well-known tour operators.

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break a law, even by mistake, you can be expelled, arrested, or jailed.

• Your U.S. passport will not prevent you from being detained, arrested, or prosecuted.
• If you’re starting a business or a licensed profession, you must seek information from local authorities before operating.
• You may be prosecuted in the U.S. for crimes committed abroad regardless of local laws. For more information, review crimes against minors abroad and resources from the Department of Justice.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to inform the U.S. embassy or consulate of your destination immediately.    
• Counterfeit and pirated goods
• Counterfeit and pirated goods are common but may be illegal according to local laws.  
• They may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You could get fined or forced to give your goods to the authorities if you try to bring them back into the U.S. 

The Truth Behind Counterfeits (source: U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection)  Customs and Border Protection

Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (source: U.S. Department of Justice) 

Faith-based travelers

Our following webpages have details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – Review country reports
• Human Rights Report – Review country reports

International volunteers

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGB travelers

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGB events in Italy.

Same sex civil unions are legally recognized in Italy.  

LGB Travel Information page

Human Rights report (section 6)

Surrogacy

New laws make it illegal for Italian citizens, including dual U.S.-Italian citizens, to travel abroad for surrogacy or to arrange it. Breaking this law can result in up to 2 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million euros. The law also affects Italian parents, spouses, or partners of U.S. citizens who use surrogacy. It applies to actions after 2024.

Travelers with disabilities

The law in Italy prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, and this is enforced. This includes those with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities.

• Accessibility in Italy is uneven. Most lodgings and buildings are accessible, but public transportation and some services may have limited access. This is especially the case in smaller towns and rural areas.
• Passengers with reduced mobility can request free assistance on board trains and in stations that are part of Italian Railway’s Sala Blu network. To receive assistance, passengers must communicate their needs to the railway company or station manager. Bookings should be made at least 24 hours in advance in person, online, by phone and email, or using the SALABLU+ app. For additional information, review the Sala Blu site or SalaBlu+ app for iOS and Android).
• Rental cars with hand controls are available from major rental companies. But it's important to reserve it well in advance.
• Equipment and repair services are usually accessible. Sign language interpreters and personal assistants are available in many locations. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Italy for a list of providers.
• Italy uses a 220-volt electrical system. You may need a transformer and plug adapter to recharge a power wheelchair.
• If traveling with a guide dog, bring the required EU documents.

Review our Travelers with Disabilities page

Students

• Students Abroad page
• FBI travel tips for U.S. students.

Special circumstances

Strikes and other work stoppages often affect transportation (airlines, airports, trains, and buses). If you're traveling during one, be sure to reconfirm your reservations and check with your carrier.

Women travelers

Tips for Women Travelers

For emergency services in Italy, dial 112.

Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

Medical facilities are available but may be limited outside urban areas. Public hospitals may not maintain the same standards as hospitals in the United States. It is not possible to obtain an itemized hospital bill from public hospitals, as required by many U.S. insurance companies, because the Italian National Health Service charges one inclusive rate for care services and room and board. Private hospitals require you to pay for all services up front and get reimbursed later from your insurance company.

We do not pay medical bills

Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• In Italy, end-of-life directives are not legal. Tourists should know that by law, hospitals will continue with lifesaving procedures indefinitely regardless of a person’ preferences stated in a will or advanced directive.

Pharmaceuticals

The Italian Ministry of Health sets rules defining who and how prescriptions and medications can be imported into Italy. However, the Ministry of Health website does not have information in English. According to the Ministry of Health, foreigners entering Italy are allowed to bring personal medications for a period of 30 days, but it is recommended that travelers also bring a copy of their prescription with them. Travelers should not bring excess supplies of prescription drugs into the country and cannot bring prescription drugs for other people.

The import of medications into Italy by courier services or by mail is strictly regulated by Italian Customs laws. Italian customs clears all incoming shipments of medications, even small amounts for personal use. Delays in the release of medications by Italian Customs received by mail or by courier services are common. The receiving party must be able to provide a statement signed by a physician licensed in Italy, certifying:

• The medication is essential for the patient, that he/she would be put in a life-threatening situation without it.
• There is no substitute or equivalent medication available on the Italian market.

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with minimal controls. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Vaccinations

Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality

Many cities in Italy have air pollution levels similar to those in major U.S. cities. 

In parts of Italy, the lack of adequate trash disposal and incineration sites has led to periodic accumulations of garbage. In some cases, residents have burned garbage, resulting in toxic emissions that can aggravate respiratory problems. 

Visit the European Environment Agency’s website for information on air quality in Italy.

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast, which uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Italy. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Health Facilities

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout Italy, but health services may be below U.S. standards.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards.
• In most cases, patients bear costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Adventure Travel

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Resources

• Road Safety
• Automobile Club d’Italia (A.C.I.)
• Transportation and Driving in Italy
• Dial (407) 444-7000 for AAA (Info on international driver's licenses).

Road conditions and safety

In Italy, you may find very different road conditions than in the United States, such as:

• Drivers often disobey the limited traffic signals.
• Motor scooters are very popular, and their riders may behave unexpectedly.
• Drivers often pass on superhighways (autostrada) at high speeds.
• Rural roads are generally narrow and often have no guardrails and inconsistent speed limits.
• Be careful when crossing streets. This is true even with a green walk (avanti) light in a marked crosswalk.

Traffic laws

• Seat belt use is mandatory.
• When driving outside of cities, you must always use headlights.
• In autumn and winter, you must have winter tires or snow chains on certain roads, especially in mountainous regions.
• If authorities stop you driving a car registered abroad, you must pay the ticket immediately under certain conditions. Be prepared to pay in cash in local currency. Local police can confiscate your car if you cannot pay the fine.
• Authorities fine drivers without the proper permits in historic downtown areas of cities and towns across Italy.
• Cameras take pictures of license plates for cars driving illegally in areas that need a permit. The authorities send fines for these violations to the drivers' home in the United States for payment.
• For legal advice or to contest a fine, you may wish to consult a lawyer licensed in Italy.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime Travel

Rules for operating and maintaining boats in Italy may be different from those in the United States. New rules went into effect October 2024, but they are not always followed.

If you rent a boat or go on a boat trip, ask the vendor or operator about safety measures. You can find information in English about watercraft safety standards in Italy on the Sailing News (Giornale della Vela) website.

Mariners and passengers traveling to Italy should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories (source: MARAD)
• Active Maritime Alerts (Source: MARAD)
• NGA Navigational Warnings (Source: NGA)