Hunting in Italy

Visas and Permits

Holders of passports from the USA, EU countries, and many other countries are not required to have a visa for a tourist visit to Italy. To hunt in Italy you must show a hunting permit issued by your country of origin; discuss this in advance with your outfitter, who should be able to handle the hunting authorization process for you.

The main international airports are Milan and Rome, but there are a number of other airports with flights from many European cities. Your outfitter should make arrangements to assist you if you are clearing firearms upon entry. You will need authorization from your outfitter, a valid hunting license from your home country, and a gun permit or U.S. Customs 4457 form.

In central Italy, hunting season starts in mid-June for roe deer and continues, with different season dates depending on the animal, until March. In the Alps, the hunting season starts in early September and closes in the middle of December. Driven hunts for pheasants and wild boars are conducted between October and January. On certain hunting estates, animals such as wild boars and pheasants can be hunted year round.

Discuss the specifics of trophy export with your outfitter, who should be able to arrange most documents required. Trophies are generally transferred to a local taxidermist who will clean and treat the skulls and hides in preparation for export.