Flights & Customs Basics for Italy
Navigating Italian border control and customs regulations requires attention to detail, particularly with the recent implementation of digital border systems in the European Union. As of January 2026, travelers must be aware of updated entry procedures, strict bans on certain agricultural products, and the lowering of the minimum spending threshold for VAT refunds.
Entry Requirements & Documents
Italy is a member of the Schengen Area. Border control procedures differ significantly depending on whether you are arriving from a Schengen or non-Schengen country.
Passport Validity
For non-EU nationals, your passport must meet two strict criteria to enter Italy:
- Validity: It must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen Area.
- Age of Document: The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years on the date of entry.
New Border Procedures: The Entry/Exit System (EES)
Status as of January 2026: Active (Transitional Phase).
The European Union has launched the Entry/Exit System (EES), an automated IT system that registers travelers from non-EU countries. Manual passport stamping is being phased out in favor of digital registration.
- What to Expect: On your first entry since October 2025, you will likely be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a facial scan) at a kiosk or dedicated counter.
- Processing Time: Expect slightly longer wait times at border control during this transitional period as authorities finalize the full implementation (scheduled for completion by April 2026).
- Note: The ETIAS (travel authorization waiver) is not yet operational. You do not need an ETIAS to enter Italy in January 2026.
Customs Allowances (Non-EU Arrivals)
If you are arriving from outside the European Union (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, Australia), strict limits apply to the goods you can bring without paying duty. These limits apply per person aged 17 or older.
Alcohol Limits
You may bring ONE of the following:
- 1 Liter of spirits/liquor (alcohol content over 22%).
- OR 2 Liters of fortified or sparkling wine (less than 22%).
PLUS you may bring both of the following in addition to the above:
- 4 Liters of still wine.
- 16 Liters of beer.
Tobacco Limits
You may bring ONE of the following:
- 200 cigarettes.
- 100 cigarillos (max 3g each).
- 50 cigars.
- 250g of smoking tobacco.
Cash and Currency
There is no limit to the amount of money you can bring into Italy, but strict declaration rules apply to combat money laundering.
- Threshold: If you carry cash valued at €10,000 ($10,500 USD, Jan 2026) or more, you must declare it.
- What Counts as Cash: Banknotes, coins, traveler's cheques, and gold.
- Procedure: You must complete a "Dichiarazione di valuta" form at the customs office upon arrival. Failure to declare can result in the confiscation of 50% of the excess amount and immediate fines.
Prohibited & Restricted Items
Italian customs (Agenzia delle Dogane) strictly enforces bans on agricultural products to protect local biodiversity and agriculture.
Food Products (Meat & Dairy)
Travelers arriving from non-EU countries are strictly prohibited from bringing any meat, meat products, milk, or dairy products into Italy.
- Banned: Salami, jerky, fresh cheese, yogurt, milk chocolates (if high milk content).
- Exceptions:
- Powdered infant milk and baby food (up to 2kg).
- Special medical pet food (up to 2kg).
- Honey and eggs (limited to 2kg).
Medication
You may bring medication for personal use. If you are carrying a supply exceeding 30 days, or carrying strict controlled substances (psychotropic drugs), you must carry a prescription or a letter from your doctor, translated into Italian or English, verifying the necessity of the medicine.
VAT Refunds (Tax-Free Shopping)
Non-EU residents are eligible for a refund of the Value Added Tax (IVA) on goods purchased in Italy and exported out of the EU. The system is now almost entirely digital.
Eligibility Rules (2026)
- Minimum Spend: The minimum spending threshold was lowered in 2024. You must spend at least €70.01 ($73.50 USD, Jan 2026) on a single invoice to qualify.
- Residency: You must be a resident of a non-EU country (this includes UK residents).
- Time Limit: Goods must leave the EU within 3 months of the purchase month.
The OTELLO System
Italy uses the OTELLO digital system to validate tax-free forms. Paper stamps are rarely used at major airports.
- In Store: At the checkout, show your passport. The shop assistant will enter your details into the digital system and issue a tax-free code/document.
- At the Airport: Before checking your bags, go to the Customs kiosk or desk. Scan your travel document and the tax-free code.
- Green Light: If the system gives a "Green" status, your refund is approved electronically. You can then visit the refund operator (e.g., Global Blue, Planet) to get your money.
- Red Light: If you get a "Red" status, you must present the physical goods to a customs officer for inspection. Do not pack tax-free items deep in your checked luggage until you have validated your forms.
Airport Logistics & Tips
- eGates: Holders of biometric passports from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea can generally use automated eGates at major airports like Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Milan Malpensa (MXP) for faster exit/entry.
- Liquids: While some airports have installed CT scanners allowing liquids >100ml, many have not, and rules can be inconsistent during this upgrade phase. It is safest to adhere to the standard rule: liquids in containers max 100ml, placed in a transparent resealable bag.
- Transfers: If connecting to a domestic Italian flight from outside the Schengen zone, you must clear immigration and customs at your first point of entry in Italy (e.g., arriving in Rome, then flying to Palermo: you clear immigration in Rome).