An Update on Coronavirus Lockdowns After Italy Re-Opened Its Doors

Over the past eight months, much has been learned about the coronavirus, how it spreads, and how to best protect people from infecting one another. Italy, along with other European countries, went into complete lockdown at the peak of the spread of the pandemic.

Sadly, Italy was one of the hardest-hit countries in Europe during the health crisis. The government took steps this summer to help Italy re-opened its doors to travelers, tourists, and international couples that have been separated since the lockdown.

What’s Changed Since Italy Reopened Its Borders on June 3rd?

Italy did reopen travel on June 3rd between the different regions in Italy that were previously on lockdown. The government also allowed unrestricted travel between the other European Union countries and the United Kingdom without having to undergo the mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Italy.

However, in recent weeks there has been a surge in new cases, so the Italian government is once again taking steps to initialize coronavirus lockdowns. The government has broken the country down into different three different-colored zones—yellow, orange, and red.

Yellow is the lowest number of cases, then orange, and those with the highest are red. In regions that have reached red, people must stay home, except for work, essential shopping, or health reasons.

In non-red regions, there is now a national curfew from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m. where everyone must remain at home, except for work. All non-essential businesses have been closed once again. Bars and restaurants must close by 6 p.m. in these regions.

Regional officials have been empowered by the Italian government to determine what non-essential businesses to close based on a yellow or orange color rating. Fitness centers, theaters, museums, art galleries, and other tourist attractions have essentially closed nationwide, yet each region can decide what public facilities can be open and what hours. For instance, in many regions, shopping centers cannot be open on the weekends.

Anyone that is outside of their home in public areas must wear a face mask at all time. If they do not, they could be fined. This restriction has been in effect since the initial outbreak and continues to remain in effect.

All public gatherings indoors and outside are banned until further notice. Private gatherings outside are also limited to the “Rule of Six” until further notice in non-red regions.

How Long Are the Current Restrictions in Effect For?

The current restrictions are valid until at least December 3rd, 2020. The Italian government will review the number of cases and adjust the restrictions should the number of new cases decline. If not, then they will most likely extend the current restrictions and could impose others.

Partners Separated Internationally Can Now Return to Italy

In the most recent update in October, Italy now allows people who had been separated internationally since the lockdown to return home to Italy to reunite with their loved ones. This change applies to nonmarried couples. However, people returning to Italy will have to complete a 14-day quarantine upon arrival and remain in quarantine if they do not test negative for COVID-19.

What About Travelers from Other Foreign Countries?

Italy follows the “safe list” of countries that the European Union has adopted, meaning if the country is on the “safe list,” you can travel to Italy. However, you will need to follow the current 14-day quarantine requirements before being allowed to enjoy your visit.

Travelers from other countries not on the “safe list,” like the United States, must first get approval to travel to Italy for essential reasons, such as traveling to Italy to care for a family member. Travelers will also be required to quarantine upon arrival for a minimum of 14 days, even with a negative COVID-19 test result.

Please keep in mind, the COVID-19 rules and requirements are constantly changing and evolving. Before traveling to Italy, please review the current ones. You may also contact the Italian consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.

While now may not be an ideal time to travel to Italy, unless you are returning home, it is the perfect time to start planning your future travel plans once there is a decline in new COVID-19 cases again.

You can even find out how to apply for dual citizenship, the requirements for dual citizenship, and obtain assistance with your Italy dual citizenship application and translations, by contacting the Italian American Citizenship Assistance Program at (305) 812-5512 today!