Italy introduced a mandatory Hepatitis A vaccination requirement for non-Schengen arrivals effective July 1 2026. Travelers must upload valid certificates showing two doses or a recent booster through the official Italy Travel Health portal. The Ministry of Health cited a 34 percent rise in cases among visitors last summer.
Proof documents include WHO-approved vaccination records or physician letters confirming immunity. Children under one year and those with medical exemptions receive waivers upon submission of documentation. Airlines will verify uploads during check-in for flights to Rome Milan and Venice.
The policy aligns with similar requirements already in place for Saudi Arabia and parts of Australia. Italy recorded 1200 Hepatitis A cases linked to imported food in 2025 prompting the stricter entry rules.
EU residents remain exempt as most national health programs include the vaccine. The requirement runs through September 30 with possible extension into autumn festivals.
What this means for you
Schedule your first Hepatitis A dose at least 28 days before travel and upload the certificate immediately after. Keep a printed copy in addition to the digital upload for airport agents.
Verify your destination region's outbreak status on the Italian Ministry of Health website before finalizing bookings. Consider combination vaccines covering both Hepatitis A and B for broader protection.
Future summers may add requirements for other foodborne illnesses if case numbers continue rising.