Travellers from India, Brazil and Sri Lanka can now enter Italy for essential purposes. However, your dream Italian vacation is still on hold. By Naina Atri
As of October 26, travellers from Brazil, India and Sri Lanka who need to enter Italy for essential purposes are no longer banned, according to Schengen Visa Info. The four countries are now part of Italy’s List E. Therefore, arrivals from these countries do not require prior approval from the Italian Ministry of Health. Work, study, absolute urgency, return to one’s residence and health have been deemed as ‘essential purposes’, as stated on the Ministry of Health’s website.
Entry into Italy is also possible for persons from List E countries who have a proven and stable emotional relationship (even if not cohabiting) with Italian/EU/Schengen citizens or legal residents of Italy, who need to reach their partner’s home in Italy. Tourists from the List E nations are not permitted entry into Italy as of now.
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Those who have visited List E countries in the 14 days prior to their arrival in Italy need to follow a strict protocol, which includes an antigen test 72 hours before their entry and a self-isolation period of 10 days. Despite strict regulations placed on those entering Italy via the countries placed on List E, authorities have placed transport crew members, onboard transport staff, cross-border workers, and students, etc., under the exemption list.
Some European countries are slowly opening up their borders such as Germany and France. Italy is the latest in joining the list of European Union countries that are easing their COVID-19 quarantine regulations, though at a much slower pace. Though vaccination rates have been increasing and the rate of Coronavirus infections has stabilised, Italian authorities have still maintained a state of emergency, which is expected to stay in place till December, as reported by the Hindustan Times. Masks are still mandatory in enclosed public places, crowded outdoor areas and on public transport. Social places such as bars, gyms, sporting events, pools and so on are open only to the fully vaccinated, who have recovered from COVID-19 and have tested negative.
Related: France Promises Foreign Tourists Access To COVID Health Passes — How To Get One
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