Italian citizens need a "green card" to participate in social activities.

Within a few months, Western European countries had completed vaccinations for the majority of their populations. Many governments, including Italy, have been seeking to implement new regulations to encourage COVID-19 vaccination, especially for those who remain hesitant about getting vaccinated.

On June 17, Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi signed a decree defining the criteria for granting Covid-19 "Green Passes," enabling citizens to participate in public events, access healthcare facilities and nursing homes, and travel throughout the country.

According to the Ministry of Health, all citizens can download the card number to their electronic devices and use it to dine in restaurants, visit museums, attend concerts, go to the gym, or participate in other social activities in public places. This green card is only issued to Italian citizens who have received at least one dose of the vaccine, have tested negative, or have recovered from the disease within the past six months.

The green card contains a QR code to verify authenticity and validity, as well as to protect citizens' data. Only legally mandated personnel can view personal information. Additionally, as an alternative to the numerical format, citizens can request a Covid-19 green card using a personal health card through their general practitioner, pediatrician, or pharmacies.

According to the New York Times, approximately 54% of the Italian population has been fully vaccinated, and over 65% have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The remainder will almost daily undergo testing and screening if they wish to participate in social activities requiring a Covid-19 green card. Those entering restricted areas without a card, and business owners who allow them in, face fines of up to 1,000 euros (approximately 26 million VND). Businesses violating the regulations may be closed for one to ten days.

The Covid-19 green card is expected to become an essential part of life for Italians who want to work, travel, and participate in social activities. The government has also announced that, starting in September, university lecturers and students will be required to have a green card. When schools reopen, lecturers who are absent more than five times will not receive their salaries.

Starting in September, ferries and buses traveling between regions, high-speed trains, and domestic flights will also require this card.

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