Amalfi Coast Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

The Amalfi Coast is located in the Campania region of southern Italy, and entry requirements follow Italian and European Union (Schengen Area) regulations. As part of the Schengen Zone, Italy maintains common visa policies with 26 other European countries, allowing travelers to move freely between member states once admitted. Visitors typically arrive through major Italian airports such as Naples International Airport (Capodichino), which is the closest major gateway to the Amalfi Coast, or Rome's Fiumicino Airport, before traveling to the coastal region. The immigration process for entering Italy is generally straightforward for most Western travelers, with many nationalities enjoying visa-free access for short tourist stays. Upon arrival at an Italian port of entry, travelers will proceed through passport control where border officials verify travel documents and the purpose of visit. The Amalfi Coast itself does not have separate entry requirements from the rest of Italy, so once you've cleared immigration at your Italian point of entry, you're free to travel to this stunning coastal destination. Before traveling to the Amalfi Coast, ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages for stamps. Travelers should also be prepared to show proof of accommodation, return tickets, and sufficient funds for their stay if requested by immigration officials. While the Amalfi Coast is primarily a tourist destination, the same entry requirements apply as for any other region in Italy.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Italy follows Schengen Area visa policies. Citizens of certain countries can enter visa-free for short stays, while others require a Schengen visa obtained in advance. The type of authorization needed depends on your nationality and purpose of visit.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period

Citizens of EU/EEA countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries can enter Italy without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

All EU/EEA countries United States Canada United Kingdom Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Israel United Arab Emirates Brazil Argentina Chile Mexico

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen Area. The 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen Zone, not just Italy. EU/EEA citizens can stay indefinitely but may need to register for stays over 90 days.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETIAS)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period (same as visa-free, but pre-authorization required)

Starting in 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need ETIAS authorization before entering the Schengen Area

Includes

United States Canada Australia New Zealand United Kingdom Japan South Korea Singapore and other currently visa-exempt countries

How to Apply: Apply online through the official ETIAS website at least 96 hours before travel. Application typically takes 10-20 minutes. Most applications approved within minutes to 72 hours. Valid for 3 years or until passport expires.
Cost: €7 for adults (free for travelers under 18 or over 70)

ETIAS is expected to launch in 2025. Once implemented, it will be mandatory for all visa-exempt travelers. This is not a visa but a travel authorization. Check official ETIAS website for exact implementation date.

Visa Required

Typically up to 90 days for tourist visas; longer stays possible with appropriate visa type

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must obtain a Schengen visa from an Italian embassy or consulate before traveling

How to Apply: Apply at the Italian embassy or consulate in your country of residence, typically 15 days to 6 months before travel. Appointment required. Processing usually takes 15 calendar days but can take up to 45 days in some cases. Required documents include completed application form, passport photos, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, financial means, and return tickets.

Nationalities requiring visas include citizens of China, India, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, and many others. Check with your nearest Italian embassy for specific requirements. Schengen visa allows travel throughout the Schengen Area, not just Italy.

Arrival Process

When arriving in Italy to visit the Amalfi Coast, you'll typically enter through Naples International Airport or another major Italian airport. The entry process follows standard EU Schengen procedures and is generally efficient, though wait times can vary during peak tourist season.

Arrival and Disembarkation

Follow signs for 'Arrivals' or 'Passport Control' after leaving the aircraft. EU/EEA citizens use separate lanes from non-EU travelers.

Passport Control

Present your passport and any required visas to the immigration officer. They may ask about your visit purpose, accommodation, and departure plans. Your passport will be stamped (for non-EU travelers). Biometric data may be collected.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim area and collect your luggage. Check monitors for your flight number and corresponding carousel.

Customs Declaration

Choose the appropriate customs channel: Green (nothing to declare) or Red (goods to declare). Most tourists use the green channel. Random checks may occur.

Exit and Onward Travel

Exit the arrivals hall and proceed to your onward transportation to the Amalfi Coast (taxi, bus, rental car, or private transfer).

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, issued within the last 10 years, with at least 2 blank pages.

Visa or ETIAS (if required)

Depending on nationality, either a Schengen visa sticker in passport or ETIAS authorization (when implemented).

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host. May be requested by immigration officers.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from the Schengen Area within the allowed stay period.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence of financial means to support your stay (credit cards, bank statements, cash). Italy generally requires approximately €45-50 per day.

Travel Insurance

Required for visa applicants; highly recommended for all travelers. Should cover medical expenses of at least €30,000.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents easily accessible in a travel folder, not packed in checked luggage.

Print copies of hotel reservations, return tickets, and travel insurance even if you have digital versions, as immigration may not accept phone displays.

Be honest and concise when answering immigration questions. Nervous or evasive behavior may lead to additional questioning.

Arrive at the airport with extra time during peak summer months (June-September) when lines at passport control can be longer.

Keep receipts for expensive items you're bringing into Italy to prove you didn't purchase them there if questioned on departure.

Download offline maps and have your first night's accommodation address written down in case you need to show immigration officers.

If connecting through another Schengen country before Italy, you'll clear immigration at your first Schengen entry point, not in Italy.

EU/EEA citizens can use automated e-gates at major airports if their passport is biometric, significantly reducing wait times.

Customs & Duty-Free

Italy follows EU customs regulations. Travelers entering from non-EU countries must be aware of duty-free allowances and prohibited items. Those arriving from other EU countries face different rules, with generally higher allowances for personal use items.

Alcohol (from non-EU countries)

1 liter of spirits over 22% alcohol OR 2 liters of fortified wine, sparkling wine, or alcoholic beverages less than 22% alcohol, PLUS 4 liters of wine AND 16 liters of beer

Only for travelers aged 17 and over. Must be for personal use. Different allowances apply when arriving from EU countries.

Tobacco (from non-EU countries)

200 cigarettes OR 100 cigarillos OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco

Only for travelers aged 17 and over. Can combine different tobacco products up to the equivalent limit.

Currency

€10,000 or equivalent

Amounts of €10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies) must be declared to customs when entering or leaving the EU. Applies to cash, checks, traveler's checks, and certain other monetary instruments. No limit on amount you can bring, but declaration is mandatory.

Gifts/Goods (from non-EU countries)

€300 per person by air or sea (€430 for travelers under 15)

Total value of all other goods. Includes perfume, coffee, tea, electronics, and other items. Goods exceeding this value are subject to customs duty and VAT.

Perfume

50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette

Separate allowance from general goods allowance when entering from non-EU countries.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - severe penalties including imprisonment
Counterfeit goods and pirated products - subject to confiscation and fines
Weapons and ammunition without proper authorization - requires special permits
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals/plants under CITES
Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries - with few exceptions, prohibited to prevent disease
Plants and plant products without phytosanitary certificates - soil, seeds, certain fruits
Explosives and fireworks - except with special authorization
Offensive weapons - including certain knives, martial arts weapons, and self-defense sprays

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be accompanied by prescription or doctor's letter; limited to personal use quantities (typically 30-90 day supply)
Pets - require EU pet passport or health certificate, rabies vaccination, and microchip; must enter through authorized points
Cultural artifacts and antiques - may require export permits from country of origin
Large amounts of cash - while legal, amounts over €10,000 must be declared
Drones - subject to Italian aviation regulations; permits may be required for use
Professional equipment - may require temporary import documentation (ATA Carnet)
Alcohol and tobacco above duty-free limits - subject to duty and VAT payment

Health Requirements

Italy generally does not require specific vaccinations for entry, but health requirements can change based on global health situations and your travel history. Travel insurance with medical coverage is highly recommended as healthcare costs can be significant for non-EU visitors.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow fever vaccination certificate - required only if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission (primarily certain countries in Africa and South America). Not required for most travelers.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure you're up to date on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and annual flu shot
Hepatitis A - recommended for most travelers, as contamination can occur through food or water
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Rabies - consider for travelers spending significant time outdoors or working with animals

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is mandatory for visa applicants and strongly recommended for all travelers. EU/EEA citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for access to state healthcare at reduced cost. Non-EU travelers should obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses of at least €30,000, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. Italian healthcare is excellent but expensive for those without coverage.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on disease outbreaks and global health situations. As of 2025, COVID-19-related entry requirements for Italy have been largely removed, but travelers should check the Italian Ministry of Health website and their departure country's travel advisories for current requirements. Some countries may still require testing or vaccination proof for return travel. Travelers arriving from areas with disease outbreaks may face additional screening or quarantine requirements.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Italy for citizen services and emergencies

Major embassies are located in Rome, with consulates in Naples, Milan, and other cities. Register with your embassy before traveling for safety updates. Check your government's travel advisory website for Italy-specific guidance.

Italian Immigration Authority

Polizia di Stato (State Police) - Immigration Office (Questura) for visa extensions and residence permits

Official website: www.poliziadistato.it and www.esteri.it/mae/en for Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For visa applications, contact Italian embassy/consulate in your home country. Naples Questura handles immigration matters for Campania region including Amalfi Coast.

Emergency Services

112 - Single European Emergency Number (police, ambulance, fire)

112 works throughout EU and can be dialed from any phone, even without credit. Also available: 113 (Police - Polizia di Stato), 118 (Medical Emergency), 115 (Fire Brigade). English-speaking operators usually available.

Tourist Police

Tourist-specific police assistance available in major tourist areas

Can help with reporting crimes, lost documents, and tourist-related issues. Often have multilingual staff during peak season.

Italian Ministry of Health

For current health requirements and travel health advisories

Website: www.salute.gov.it - Check for updates on health entry requirements, especially during disease outbreaks.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children, including infants, must have their own passport (family passports are no longer accepted). Minors under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s), including contact information and trip details. This is not always checked but may be requested. For divorced or separated parents, carry custody documentation. Unaccompanied minors require special airline arrangements and additional documentation. EU citizens: children may need their own ID card or passport depending on age and country of citizenship.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Italy from EU countries need an EU Pet Passport, microchip, and valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel). From non-EU countries, pets require: veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant), rabies vaccination certificate, and rabies antibody titration test for certain countries. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are limited to 5 animals per person for non-commercial travel. Pets must enter through authorized points of entry. Certain dog breeds may face restrictions. Airlines have specific requirements for pet travel. Consider quarantine requirements for your return journey.

Extended Stays

Tourist visa/visa-free stay is limited to 90 days within 180 days in the Schengen Area. For longer stays, you must apply for appropriate visa/permit before the 90 days expire: Student visa (for enrolled students), Work visa (requires job offer and employer sponsorship), Elective Residence visa (for financially independent individuals), or Family reunification visa. Applications must be made at Italian embassy/consulate in your home country before traveling. EU/EEA citizens can stay indefinitely but must register at local Anagrafe (registry office) for stays over 90 days and may need to prove sufficient resources. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans to Schengen Area.

Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

Italy introduced a Digital Nomad visa in 2024 for non-EU remote workers. Requirements include: employment with company outside Italy or self-employment with clients outside Italy, minimum income threshold (typically around €28,000 annually), health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Apply at Italian embassy/consulate before travel. Valid for up to 1 year, renewable. Standard tourist visa does not permit work, even if remote for non-Italian employer. EU/EEA citizens can work remotely freely but should understand tax implications for extended stays.

Cruise Ship Passengers

Passengers on cruises calling at Italian ports (including Amalfi, Salerno, or Sorrento near the Amalfi Coast) generally don't need to clear immigration if staying on ship or on organized shore excursions, but must carry passport. Those leaving the ship independently must have appropriate visa/authorization for Italy. Schengen visa rules apply if leaving the port area. Ship will typically hold passports during port calls. For cruises beginning or ending in Italy, full immigration and customs procedures apply.

Dual Citizens

Italy recognizes dual citizenship. Dual citizens should enter and exit Italy using their Italian passport if they hold one. Using a non-Italian passport when you're also an Italian citizen can cause complications. EU citizens with dual nationality should use their EU passport for travel within the Schengen Area. If you have Italian citizenship through ancestry but haven't obtained an Italian passport, you may still need to follow non-EU entry requirements until you have Italian documentation.