
Temporary Import of Vehicles into Italy for U.S. Citizens
Americans in Italy are considered either a "non-resident" or a "resident." Americans staying or traveling within Italy for less than three months are considered non-residents. This includes persons on vacation, those taking professional trips, students registered at an authorized school, or persons performing research or independent study. Tourists may bring motor vehicles bearing non-Italian license plates for no longer than six (6) months without paying customs duties. At the expiration of this period the motor vehicle must be re-exported or registered and Italian license plates obtained. If it is not registered, the violator can be charged with smuggling and is subject to penalties.