Italy Arrival Card: Do You Need One?

You may be wondering if you need to complete the arrival card when you are flying to Italy.

The answer is yes, you have to complete the entry requirements but the Italy arrival card has been replaced with Entry/Exit System (EES) at the Schengen border.

Travellers from visa-exempt countries should also be aware of ETIAS, the European travel authorisation system. ETIAS is expected to start in the last quarter of 2026, with the exact launch date still to be announced.

Does Italy Have an Arrival Card?

Italy arrival card has been replaced with Entry/Exit System which is now fully operated across Schengen countries.

It is digitally records the entries and exits then collects biometric information from eligible non-EU short stay travellers.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is not an arrival form that can simply fill in online before your trip but it is a border-control system used when eligible travellers enter or leave the Schengen area.

What Is the Entry/Exit System?

The Entry/Exit System or known as EES is an automated system designed to record electronically the personal details of non-EU nationals that visiting the Schengen area for short stays.

This generally applies to non-EU nationals that travelling to Schengen area for a short stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

They have replace this instead of relying mainly on passport stamps.

EES can record:

• Passport details
• Personal information
• Date and place of entry and exit
• Facial image and fingerprints

Italy Arrival Card vs EES

What Is ETIAS?

ETIAS stand for European Travel Information and Authorisation System which is a electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers visiting participating European countries.

The ETIAS expected to start in last quarter of 2026, followed by a transition period.

What Happens When You Arrive in Italy?

Step 1: Arrive at the Airport

After leaving the aircraft, follow the signs for passport control or border control.

Step 2: Go to Border Control

Present your passport to the Italian border authorities.

Step 3: EES Registration

If you are an eligible non-EU short-stay traveller, your information may be registered in EES.

This can include biometric information such as your facial image and fingerprints.

Step 4: Border Checks

The border officer checks your travel documents and entry conditions.

Step 5: Enter Italy

Once the checks are complete, you can collect your luggage and continue your journey.

Italy Arrival Card Conclusion

If you are planning to get a short holiday at Italy, you do not need to fill in arrival card hence you need to know about the EES where it is collect travellers information digitally for non EU short stay travellers.

Before your flight, you can check your passport validity, Schengen and Italy latest entry requirements.

You will need to keep your accommodation and return flight information ready as it can make your arrival process easier.