Important Travel Information for Canadian Citizens to Travel to Italy
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Welcome to Europe
The newly updated travel authorization system, called the European Travel Information and Authorization System (or ETIAS for short), will become mandatory for all foreign travelers who travel to Italy or in the European Schengen zone who are coming from one of the 60 countries on the established visa-exempt list. Please refer to our homepage for a complete list of these visa-exempt countries, as well as a list of all countries that are currently in the Schengen area of Europe. Italy is one of the most frequently visited countries in the entire world, and this is for a number of excellent reasons. With its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and world-famous cuisine, Italy draw in close to 100 million visitors from around the world each year. ... The total number of international tourists coming to Italy is even greater than Spain and the United States, with 82 and 78 million annual visitors from abroad, respectively. From the exquisite Mediterranean Riviera of Genoa and Portofino to the magnificent landscapes of the Italian Lake District, the classic art and impressive ancient ruins of Rome, and the breathtakingly historic, winery speckled countryside of Tuscany, Italy has something on offer for every different type of tourist. Then, of course, there’s Venice: the most visited city in all of Italy. Venice attracts over 25 million international visitors every year. Known as the City of Canals, Venice ranks quite high on the list of Europe’s most picturesque cities. Some of the most popular activities for tourists in Venice include taking a scenic gondola ride on the winding canals, visiting iconic landmarks like the Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale, shopping at the Rialto Market, marveling at scenic views of the city from the top of the grand Campanile, and relaxing on the dazzling beaches of Lido Island. Italy has been a top vacation destination for many Canadians and other international travelers from around the world for many years. Previously, Canadian citizens were able to gain visa-free entry to Italy using only a valid biometric passport. However, from 2023 onwards, all Canadian citizens and other foreign travelers will be required to submit an online ETIAS visa waiver application and receive confirmation of approval to travel before their departure for Italy. Please be aware that due to the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Italy could impose additional border and travel regulations and restrictions in the future. These changes to Italy’s border security policy would be completely independent of the ETIAS travel authorization program. Be that as it may, you can rest assured that we are absolutely dedicated to all of the valued international travelers who trust us. We will continue to work diligently so that we can make sure our website is consistently up-to-date and features the latest travel information.