Wearing a face mask is no longer compulsory on public transport in Italy, but remains in other spaces. Where do I still need to wear a face mask in Italy? We have the details.
2022 mask rules in Italy
2022 mask rules in Italy Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash

On 1st October 2022, the rules for the use of face masks in Italy were updated, meaning that face coverings are no longer be mandatory on public transport, such as trains or buses, or in indoor places, such as schools. The obligation does still remain in some particular spaces. So, now that Italy has removed COVID mask rules on public transport, where do I still need to wear a face mask in Italy? We explain everything. 

Face masks in hospitals and care homes in Italy

Italy's Minister of Health, Roberto Speranza, has decided to extend the obligation to wear face masks in hospitals and old people's homes until at least the end of October. The vaccination obligation for healthcare personnel also remains, which is due to expire at the end of the year and will most likely not be renewed by the new government.

Masks on public transport in Italy

30th September 2022 was the last day on which the compulsory wearing of face masks on public transport remained in force. On trains, buses and ferries, face masks will no longer have to be worn.

Masks at school in Italy

As far as Italian schools are concerned, the compulsory wearing of face masks had already been abolished at the beginning of the school year. With the exception of pupils with cold symptoms, but no fever, for whom attendance at school is required, but with an FFP2 or surgical mask.

Obligation to wear FFP2 masks in Italy

The requirement to wear FFP2 masks is mandatory for close contacts of COVID-positive individuals who must undergo a self-monitoring regime. Thus, the FFP2 mask must be worn until ten days after the date of the last close contact. If symptoms of COVID occur during the self-monitoring period, a test must be performed and, in the case of a negative result, repeated on the fifth day following the date of last contact.

Masks at work in Italy

The obligation to wear a face mask in workplaces where it is impossible to maintain a safe distance remains until 31st October. Remember that there is no mask requirement at work in public workplaces.