Country Guide: Italy

Updated: August 5, 2025

Removal goods – HHG/PE

Documents Required

Italian and foreign citizens:

  • Customs form F-01A (“istanza senza garanzia”) which implies the penal responsibility of the declarant/importer.
  • Copy of the residence registration application, so-called “Avvio di procedimento di iscrizione anagrafica”, submitted and acknowledged by the Italian city hall.
    • ATTENTION: a residence registration can only be applied if the applicant can provide the city hall with a lease contract signed and registered or with an ownership deed of the Italian house.
    • If shipment is imported after 45 days from the release of the “Avvio di procedimento”, the customs authorities will require an official “certificate of residence”.
    • In case the “avvio di procedimento di iscrizione anagrafica” didn’t become available on time, Italian customs can accept the evidence that the application has been submitted accompanied by the lease contract signed and registered with the local authorities or by the ownership certificate of the house.
  • Evidence of the residence in the origin country for a period longer than 12 months (this can be provided through a consular declaration, where obtainable, or AIRE certification (for Italian returning residents) or an employer’s declaration, or lease contract or copies of utilities in the origin country for 13 months).

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • As a rule, the Italian Customs authorities grant free entry to household goods and vehicles provided:
    • They have been owned and used by the importer for at least 6 months prior to the relocation to Italy.
    • The importer can prove to have lived in the country where the shipment is coming from for at least 12 months before returning to Italy.
    • The importer can prove to have applied for the residence registration at the city hall (iscrizione anagrafica) before the arrival of the shipment*.
    • The importation takes place within 12 months from the date of the residence registration in Italy.
    • *If the importer is unable to register as resident before the arrival of the shipment on the Italian territory but were certain to be registered as resident within 6 months from the date of the importation, the shipment can be cleared with a special procedure named “daziato sospeso” or “Importazione con garanzia”, depositing the duties and taxes.
    • The deposit will be returned after the submission of an official certificate of residence within 6 months from the importation date.
    • This procedure will imply additional costs and a long waiting before the customs office returns the deposit.
    • The customs form Mod.F-01B (“istanza con garanzia”) will need to be completed in this case.
  • Non-EU Citizens will not be able to register as resident in Italy until they have progressed with the immigration process and applied for the “permesso di soggiorno”.
  • Some customs offices require the declaration of the freight amount at time of the clearance and a copy of the freight invoice might need being submitted to the customs office. If shipment were dutiable, freight would be a component on which duties/taxes will be calculated, in addition to the customs value attributed to the goods. Contact your origin agent for potential support.

REMARKS

  • It is highly recommended to obtain the green light from the Italian agent before forwarding a shipment to Italy.
  • See section ‘Prohibited Items’.
  • Electrical bicycles or electrical scooters can only be imported if they comply with EU requirements and have the “CE” logo.
  • The Italian customs have increased the frequency of customs documental verifications (almost every shipment) and physical These customs controls can easily generate additional costs + demurrage/detention/storage charges will have to be expected.
  • Absorbing poles/silica gel bags and any other product used to prevent humidity can only be used if the origin agent can prove the product does not contain harmful substances (sanitary authorities might require analysis certificates of the product)
  • Phytosanitary controls have been recently implemented by the Customs and Phytosanitary authorities.
    • Particular attention is given to shipments coming from China and the Republic of Belarus (Byelorussia).
    • These inspections will generate additional costs + demurrage/detention/storage charges will have to be expected.
    • Any wooden material (pallets, crates and bulkhead) will need to strictly adhere to FAO ISPM 15 requirements.
    • It is recommended to provide certificates attesting the compliance with the requirements and even provide photos of the wooden material used in the
    • If shipment included any goods shipped under IMO declaration, please expect additional costs at the Italian arrival port/airport
    • Useful link: https://www.adm.gov.it/portale/en/circol are-1

Diplomatic Removals

Documents Required

Foreign diplomats:

  • Original import authorization (named “telespresso”) issued by the Ministry of Foreign affairs which has to reach the customs office before the arrival of the shipment in Italy.
  • Passport copy.
  • Italian codice fiscale copy.
  • Dichiarazione di libera importazione (declaration to confirm that the imported goods are not among the ones whose importation is forbidden).

Italian Returning Diplomats:

  • Shipments belonging to members of the Italian Diplomatic and Consular Corps, as well as civil servants and service personnel returning to Italy on completion of their mission abroad, are not usually travelling under a diplomatic status.
  • They will need to provide:
    • Customs form F-01A (“istanza senza garanzia”)
    • Certificate of residence in Italy
    • Dichiarazione di libera importazione
    • Passport copy
    • Copy of the Italian fiscal code
    • Certificate from the administration to which they belong (i.e., Foreign Ministry or Ministry of Defence ) confirming period of their mission abroad and repatriation to Italy.
  • ATTENTION: EORI code will be required.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Foreign diplomats and personnel coming to Italy to join an official international organization or, consulate/embassy will need to obtain the “diplomatic Franchise” (duty free import authorization) through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome.
    • The process can take several weeks to be completed, and it has to be initiated by the importer’s organization.
  • Before being in the position to apply for this, the diplomat has to obtain a special ID and be accredited as a diplomat in Italy.
  • Import of alcohol is allowed for diplomats but limited to annual quota agreed by the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective embassies in the country.

REMARKS

  • Same remarks as per the previous section.
  • It is highly recommended to obtain the green light from the destination agent before forwarding a shipment to Italy.

Wedding trousseaux

Documents Required

  • List of the relocated items owned for more than 6 months
  • List of the wedding gifts.
    • Each wedding gift cannot cost more than EUR 1000 (excluding wine, alcohol, tobacco and any other forbidden item or items subject to an import license)
  • Wedding certificate
  • Certificate of residence in Italy of the married couple
  • Evidence that the spouse has lived in the country where the shipment is originating from for more than 12 months.
  • Customs form F-02A.
  • ATTENTION: EORI code will be required.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • The Italian Customs Office authorises a duty-free importation of used household goods, trousseaux and wedding presents belonging to Italian or foreign citizens, who, as a result of their marriage with a citizen living in Italy, are registering as resident in Italy.
  • Wedding trousseaux are not admitted duty- free into Italy. However, they can enter duty- free as removals if they are used and if the importation is connected with a transfer of residence.

REMARKS

  • Same remarks as per previous section “Italian and foreign citizens”.

Inheritance

Documents Required

  • Translated and legalized copy of the will/notary act proving that the importer is the only heir having right on the imported goods.
  • Customs form F-03
  • Importer’s passports copy and Italian codice fiscale document
  • Certificate of residence
  • List of inherited goods
  • ATTENTION: EORI code will be required.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Importation of used household goods and personal effects is authorised if the importation is connected with a transfer of residence (in this case the requirements previously described under “removal goods” apply) or when the importer can prove to be designated as the only heir having right on the imported household goods and to be resident in Italy.
    • The importation must take place within 2 years from the date the heir becomes the official possessor of the goods.
    • It is highly recommended to submit all documents to the Italian agent before shipping to verify whether the importation can be granted duty free.

REMARKS

  • Same remarks as per previous section.

New furniture household items presents and souvenirs

Documents Required

  • Original invoices.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Presents and souvenirs are liable to payment of duty and VAT.

REMARKS

  • In case of false declarations (items declared as used while they are brand new), a fine will be assessed by customs, in addition to the payment of duties and taxes.

Works of art & antiques

Documents Required

  • Detailed list and accurate description (title/author/date/value/dimensions) of the art pieces and antiques is required.
    • Proof of ownership for more than 6 months might be required.
    • It is highly recommended to submit purchase invoices or any proof that certifies length of ownership. Two photos for each piece need to accompany the documentation.
    • ATTENTION: EORI code will be required.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Fine art inspection might be required, and this will imply additional costs as well as a delay in the customs process.
    • In general inclusion of valuable artworks can generate a physical inspection.
  • Duties and taxes might be payable.
  • Additional declarations to be provided – forms can be supplied by your local destination agent.

REMARKS

  • It is highly recommended to consult your destination agent before packing and shipping.

Precious metal objects

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Objects made by silver (i.e. photo frames, cutlery, trays etc.) within a normal move of household goods are allowed duty free on the same basis and under the same conditions as furniture and other articles.

REMARKS

  • For other precious metal objects, please contact your local destination agent for verification.
  • No specific prescriptions for the importation of silverware within a household goods removal.

Motor Vehicles (including caravans and trailers)

Documents Required

  • The importer needs to meet the same requirements and provide the same documents and forms needed for the importation of the household
  • Additionally, the following documents will need to be submitted:
    • Customs form F-A
    • Copy of the purchase invoice
    • Original vehicle title (certificate of ownership/logbook of the vehicle).
      • It is highly recommended (mainly for the registration process) to obtain a legalized translation into Italian of the vehicle title done by the Italian consulate at origin (and in some countries like USA, also apostilled from the Secretary of State / Public Notary).
      • If titles were withdrawn at origin, the above translation will still be required.
      • The Italian consulate will have to certify that the copy of the title is a true and accurate copy taken from the Local authorities will have to provide an original document stating that title has been withdrawn.
      • Vehicles must meet Italian requirements to be registered and driven in Italy or will need being Conversions are not always possible. It is highly recommended to check this issue before exporting the car.
      • Two originals will have to be obtained for each document (one original used for customs purposes and one original used for registration).This declaration will need being submitted at the customs and at the Motorization Office and will have to be accompanied by an original legalized translation done by the Italian consulate at origin.
      • ATTENTION: EORI code will be required.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • If the vehicle cannot be imported duty free, part of the ‘documents required’ will still be needed for the clearance and for the registration
  • For all importers:
    • Duty free entry if vehicle has been in possession of importer abroad for more than 6 Importers need to prove to have lived in the country where the shipment is coming from for a period longer than 12 months.
    • Official proof of a minimum 366 day-stay in the country where the shipment is coming from has to be Evidence can be given submitting a declaration from the importer’s consulate, if applicable, or submitting an employer’s declaration (preferably in Italian language) or copies of utilities/lease contracts.
    • Before the vehicle is handed over for shipping, customers should be encouraged to verify with the manufacturer whether it is possible to have the vehicle converted to meet Italian/EU requirements in Italy. If vehicles cannot be converted, they cannot be registered and driven.
  • Please note that the customs clearance process for importing a vehicle (car or motorcycle) into Italy under duty-free conditions is entirely separate from the subsequent eligibility of that vehicle for registration with Italian license plates.
    • While a vehicle may be successfully imported without incurring customs duties, this does not automatically guarantee that it can be registered for road use in Italy. The responsibility lies solely with the vehicle owner to verify, in advance, the specific requirements for registration with the ACI (Automobile Club d’Italia) and the Public Vehicle Registry (PRA – Pubblico Registro Automobilistico).
    • You can find official information at the following websites:
  • We strongly advise all customers to consult the official ACI and PRA websites or contact the relevant authorities before proceeding with The decision to import a vehicle should not be based solely on customs duty exemptions, but must also consider:
    • The total cost of shipping.
    • Potential expenses for technical modifications.
    • The feasibility and cost of registration in the intended region of residence.
    • The limited use of the car in some areas (due to traffic restrictions).
  • Failure to meet registration requirements may result in significant delays, additional costs, or the inability to legally use the vehicle on Italian roads.

REMARKS

  • Vehicles:
    • Must have been owned and used by the importer for more than 6 months prior to shipping to Italy.
    • Cannot be sold or otherwise, disposed of for one year after date of importation.
  • If the residence had not yet been applied when the vehicle arrives at the customs, a duty-free importation will not be allowed, and vehicle cannot be registered with the Italian authorities.
  • Inclusion of vehicles increase the risk of physical inspections.
  • Vehicles need to travel with the battery disconnected, tapped back and properly secured to prevent movement in any direction.
  • It is highly recommended to obtain the green light from the local destination agent before forwarding vehicles to Italy.
    • If vehicles were shipped under IMO declaration, please expect additional costs at the Italian arrival port/airport.
  • Anyone residing in Italy is required to register a foreign vehicle (nationalization procedure) within 3 months from the date of acquiring residency or from the date of importing the vehicle. In other words, one must obtain Italian license plates and a registration certificate to be compliant with the law.

Plants and vegetable products

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

  • Phytosanitary certificate required.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Normal house plants are admitted duty free as part of a removal provided a certificate of freedom from disease is available from the authorities of the country of origin of the removal (Phytosanitary certificate) otherwise importation prohibited.

REMARKS

  • Among some European countries (i.e. Italy/Switzerland), there is a special agreement that allows free circulation of plants with the exception of some species.
  • It is highly recommended not to include plants and vegetable products in household good shipments.

Domestic animals

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

  • Original international vaccination book.
  • Rabies Vaccination and Certificate:
    • All pets must have an original Rabies Certificate signed by the The rabies vaccine must be at least 21 days old at the time of the final health exam.
  • EU Health Certificate:
    • Standard Health Certificate to be filled in by an accredited veterinarian which must be signed in a different colour than that of the certificate’s printing (normally blue ink). This certificate is valid for 10 days from the date of issue by the official veterinarian until the date of the checks at the EU point of entry.
  • USDA Endorsements for the below referenced forms which must be sent to the local USDA for their stamp of approval:
    • Microchip Implantation record.
    • Rabies certificate.
    • Vet latter.
    • EU Vet Health certificate.
  • International Health Certificate:
    • Needs to be completed by the vet within 10 days of departure.
  • EU passport for pets travelling within Europe.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • All original documents listed have to travel with the pet.
  • The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered.

REMARKS

  • Full vaccinations are recommended for all pets, namely:
    • Dogs:
      • Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus (DHLPP) and Bordatella.
    • Cats:
      • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).
  • These should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than 2 weeks before export date for maximum effectiveness. Please double check the requirements with your agent at destination to make sure they have not been amended in the meantime.

Forbidden items

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Animal skins
  • Animal furs
  • Narcotics
  • Drugs
  • Tobacco
  • Electrical bicycles or scooters, if they do not comply with EU rules and they do not have the “CE” logo.
    • Batteries might still not be accepted by the shipping lines and in any case, they need to be removed and packed separately.
    • Batteries are forbidden in air shipments.
  • Stuffed animals / Animal trophies
    • Cites permit required
  • Firearms
  • Ammunition
  • Swords (even decorative)
  • Hunting knives
  • Weapons or parts of weapons
  • Ivory
    • If a piano with ivory keys is included, a CITES permit will need to be obtained.
  • Pornography
  • plants
  • Wood might require CITES permit
  • Food
  • Wine, alcohol
  • Any hazardous material.

REMARKS

  • Importation is prohibited in a household good shipment.
  • Tobacco in any form, spirits, wine, food or firearms, ammunitions, weapons or parts thereof (including swords, hunting knives…), cannot be included in the shipment.

Firearms, ammunition, weapons

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

  • A special permit for their importation must be obtained from the Police Office (Questura Centrale) and from Explosives Department Office.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • Firearms and ammunitions cannot be imported as household goods.
  • Importer will need to take his own arrangements.

REMARKS

  • Importation is prohibited in a household good shipment.

Wine, beverages, alcohol and food

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • These are not to be included in the shipment with household goods.
  • Import of alcohol is allowed for diplomats but limited to annual quota agreed by the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective embassies in the country.

REMARKS

  • These are subject to sanitary inspections and need to be accompanied by sanitary analysis as well as customer’s declarations.
  • Taxes and duties to be paid.
  • Shipment of these items is highly discouraged.

Products against mould / humidity or moisture absorbing bags

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

  • Importers might be required to certify whether their shipments do or do not include products against the mould and humidity or moisture absorbing bags.
    • This requirement, implemented in 2009, still exists but no declarations have been required lately in this respect.
    • Nevertheless, if used, it is still recommended that the shipping agent verifies the composition of the product with the manufacturer, to make sure it does not contain Dimethyl Fumarate or other harmful substances.
    • Sanitary authorities still have the right to verify, though they had not been doing this on household good shipments lately.

CUSTOMS PRESCRIPTIONS

  • This mainly applies to the “anti-mould” bags/sachets/absorbing poles that are placed in containers/lift vans by the movers to inhibit mould during transit.

REMARKS

  • It is responsibility of the origin agent to provide the required analysis certification in case this were required by the sanitary authorities.