International health insurance for Italy and Italy visa guide

January 04, 2019

Rich in sunshine, history, culture and delicious cuisine, Italy is a must for a lot of travellers and holiday makers while they are visiting Europe. Housing a share of the world’s most iconic architectural wonders, beautiful lakes and one-of-a-kind cities such as Rome, Venice and Florence, Italy offers an unforgettable experience to all. There’s a lot to get excited about when thinking of visiting Italy. With all the excitement and opportunity to explore, travel insurance is unlikely to be the first priority, but it’s important to think about organizing your travel insurance policy so you can kick back, relax and unwind during your vacation, worry free.
 
Aside from finding the right cover for you, here are some other important travel tips to be aware of before you set off on your adventure:

Visa Information for Italy

Do I Need to Get a Visa to Visit Italy?    

No

If you are an American Citizen with a valid US passport visiting Italy for up to 90 days, then you don’t have to apply for visa. If your travel requires specific Health Insurance consider Schengen Travel Insurance.

Travel Documents You Will Need:

A valid U.S. passport.

All passports must have a minimum of 6 months before expiration. That is 6 months from that date of your travel departure, and your passport should also have at least one blank page for stamping.

Health and Medical Advice

Before jetting off on your Mediterranean travels, you should check for any required vaccinations and any epidemic breakouts occurring in Italy. It’s also a good idea to find out where the nearest hospital is in case of an emergency.

Do I Need to be Vaccinated When Travelling to Italy?

No

You’re not obligated to get any vaccinations when travelling to Italy, but we recommend that you update your routine vaccinations as a precautionary measure. The standard vaccines are:

•    MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
•    Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis
•    Influenza
•    Polio
•    Chickenpox

Book an appointment at your local practitioner or find your local Passport health clinic. You should book an appointment, at the latest, 4 weeks before your trip.

Travel Health Updates in Italy

In May 2018, CDC reported that there was an outbreak of measles in Italy. So, we would recommend that you make sure that you have been given the latest MMR vaccine. Currently there are no other reported epidemics occurring in Italy.

To keep up to date on any breakouts, visit the CDC website.

Emergency Contact Information

No one ever wants to have to call the emergency services whilst they’re on vacation, but unfortunately accidents happen and it’s important to be prepared for when they do.

•    The European emergency number is: 112

•    Police emergency number in Italy: 113

•    Fire emergency number in Italy: 115

•    Medical emergency number in Italy: 118

Italian Local Laws and Customs

•    Smoking is not permitted in any public places.

•    You must be able to prove your identity if requested. Identity documents can include a passport or driving license.

•    Illegal drug use will be punished with a fine or a prison sentence.

•    There is also a cultural taboo when it comes to public intoxication and any anti-social behaviour, be sure to respect this custom and don’t go overboard with alcohol consumption.

•    In some major cities and towns, you can be fined for littering.

•    It’s considered an offence to sit, eat or drink on historic monuments, in churches, piazzas and other public buildings.

•    Be sure to familiarize yourself with notices regarding public conduct and to also dress modestly when entering churches and cathedrals.

Safety and Security

Terror Attacks

Thankfully, Italy has not suffered the same level of terrorist threats as other European countries in recent years. However, the risk of an attack is a global concern and Italy has increased its internal security to protect both its citizens and visitors. It’s important to stay vigilant and be aware of any possible safety concerns.

Here are a few tips listed from the Travel State Government Website:

•    Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when traveling to popular tourist locations and large crowded public places.
•    Follow the instructions of local authorities.
•    Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
•    Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
•    Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
•    Review the Crime and Safety Report for Italy.
•    U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Petty Theft and Crime

Popular tourist attractions and cities are notorious for being hot pickpocketing zones, where thieves will use a variety of methods to try and divert your attention. Be alert and keep your belongings with you at all times, especially in crowded areas like train or metro stations and popular tourist areas. It’s always a good idea to keep valuable belongings or extra spending money in a hotel safe, if you have one.

U.S. Embassy in Italy
U.S. Embassy Rome
via Vittorio Veneto 121
00187 Roma
Italy
Telephone: +(39) 06.46741
U.S. citizen services: Monday – Friday, 8:30 – 1200
Notarial services: Tuesday and Thursday, 8:30 – 12:00

Useful Tips for Italy

Official Language: Italian  
Depending on which region you are visiting, the majority of places will speak in Italian. When you are visiting major tourist spots like Rome and Venice you will more than likely be able to converse in English most of the time but it’s always a good idea to have an Italian phrasebook or app handy, so you are prepared for every situation.

Currency: Euros
Before your trip make sure to exchange enough euros for your spending requirements. It’s always a good idea to take some traveller checks with you too.

Italian Plug Sockets: Type F and Type L
Italy has two types of plug sockets, F and L. The standard voltage and frequency are 230 V and 50 Hz, you will need to use a plug adapter for your appliances and devices.
You might also need to buy a voltage converter or transformer as the standard Italian voltage is higher than in the U.S (120 V). Its best to go for a converter which can also alter the frequency as the U.S. frequency rate is 10 Hz higher than in Italy and so may be dangerous to use without a converter.

© 2018 UnitedHealth Group Incorporated. For informational purposes, UHG does not guarantee the correctness or completeness of the information.