Each U.S. tourist may bring back to the U.S. duty-free $800 worth of goods purchased abroad. The goods must accompany the traveler. A flat rate of 3% is assessed on the next $1,000 worth of goods purchased. Parcels containing gifts may be sent from abroad to the U.S. duty-free, providing the total value of such parcels received by one person, in one day does not exceed $100. Each package should be marked "Unsolicited Gift". The amount paid and the contents of the package should be declared.

A visa is not required for a U.S. or Canadian citizen holding a valid passport unless he expects to stay in Italy more than 90 days. If, after entering Italy, the tourist decides he would like to stay more than 90 days, he can apply, once only, at any police station (questura) for an extension of an additional 90 days. He will be asked to prove that he is a bona fide tourist with adequate means of support. As a rule, permission is granted immediately. Non-American citizens should check current visa requirements with the nearest Italian Consulate before departure.

As of October 2, 2004 a new European Union regulation (EC 998\2003) applies for the non-commercial movement of pet animals (cats, dogs, and ferrets) in the European Union Member States. Pets may enter Italy only if accompanied by their owner or a person responsible for them on behalf of the owner during their movement in Italy, and are not intended for sale. Up to a maximum of five pet animals are permitted. In accordance with the above EC Regulation, it is mandatory to obtain, for each pet, a European Community Veterinary Certificate, issued, in the country of origin, by a certified veterinarian, containing information about the pet's general state of health and proving there is an effective vaccination protection against rabies: animals under the age of three months may not travel to Europe since the anti-rabies vaccine is not administered before the pet is three months old. Pet animals must be identifiable by a clearly readable tattoo or an electronic identification system (microchip/transponder), which provides the pet owner's name and address. The certificate (issue date not to exceed 30 days prior to the departure date) is valid for 4 months from the date of the official veterinarian's signature or endorsement by the competent Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture's) or Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and is equivalent to the EU Pet Passport. The certificate forms are available from Italian diplomatic of consular representatives, whose authentication or certification is not needed. To introduce pet animals in Italy from third countries, it is not necessary to subject the animals to tick or echinococcus treatments. Parrots, parakeets, rabbits and hares also require health certificates, and, upon entering Italy, are subject, to examination.