Updated 19/03/2025

Country overview

There are no restrictions on entry, stay and residence for people living with HIV. Antiretroviral treatment (ART) can be bought for personal use.

Labor migrants

If you have a regular Visa, you can get Tessera Sanitaria and apply to Sistema Sanitario Nazionale

Refugees

People without a visa can obtain an STP card (Straniero Temporaneamente Presente, "foreigner temporarily residing in Italy"). The STP card grants access to medical care for chronic infectious diseases. You can obtain an STP card from your local health department, known as the azienda sanitaria locale (ASL), the emergency department, or the clinic where you receive medical care. To obtain an STP card, you will need an identification document. Medical care with an STP card is free in cases where you cannot afford a visit to a doctor. The STP card is valid for 6 months and can be extended after the expiration date.

Access to treatment

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can only be obtained from the hospital pharmacy. Every person living with HIV has a treatment plan and access to treatment at the public clinic where they are attended.

Anyone can visit a public clinic with an STI department and request an appointment. Visiting a clinic can sometimes be delicate, as some hospitals may require a prescription from a family doctor, while others adopt a more flexible approach. It's important to maintain contact with NGOs that can assist in resolving individual issues.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Rome can only be ordered and obtained from the Vatican pharmacy. It is not possible to purchase ART in Italy.

In case of an emergency, persons can visit a hospital with an infectious diseases department. Typically, when a foreigner seeks assistance at a public hospital in such situations, they may face challenges. However, the level of assistance can vary based on the attending doctor and other factors. Organizations can offer support by inquiring among their members if anyone has any spare medication.