How to Get a Medical Certificate in Italy as a Foreigner

Medical certificates are commonly required in Italy for work, travel, insurance claims, or legal purposes. For foreigners, understanding how medical certificates work can be confusing, especially when language barriers and administrative rules differ from those in their home country. This guide explains how tourists, expats, and non-residents can obtain a valid medical certificate in Italy.

What Is a Medical Certificate in Italy

A medical certificate, known in Italy as certificato medico, is an official document issued by a licensed doctor. It confirms a medical condition, fitness status, or temporary inability to work or travel.

Medical certificates are widely used in Italy and are often required for employers, schools, insurance providers, or transportation companies.

Who Can Issue a Medical Certificate

Only a licensed medical doctor can issue a valid medical certificate in Italy. Pharmacists and other healthcare professionals are not authorized to do so.

Certificates can be issued by:

• public healthcare doctors

• private doctors

• licensed doctors providing online consultations, when clinically appropriate

Can Foreigners Get a Medical Certificate

Yes. Foreigners can legally obtain medical certificates in Italy, regardless of residency or nationality. The key requirement is that the certificate must be issued by a doctor authorized to practice in Italy.

Foreign medical certificates issued abroad may not be accepted by Italian institutions or employers.

For an overview of healthcare access rules, see:
👉 Healthcare for Foreigners in Italy
https://mydeardoc.com/healthcare-for-foreigners-in-italy

Types of Medical Certificates

Medical certificates in Italy may be requested for various reasons. Common examples include certificates for temporary illness, fitness to travel, return-to-work documentation, or confirmation of a medical condition for insurance purposes.

Each certificate must clearly state the medical evaluation performed and is issued based on the doctor’s professional assessment.

How to Obtain a Medical Certificate

Foreigners can obtain a medical certificate by booking a medical consultation in Italy. During the consultation, the doctor evaluates the patient’s condition and determines whether issuing a certificate is appropriate.

For non-urgent situations, online medical consultations offer a fast and efficient option without visiting a clinic.

Learn more here:
👉 Online Medical Consultation in Italy
https://mydeardoc.com/online-medical-consultation-italy

Are Online Medical Certificates Valid

Medical certificates issued after an online consultation are valid when:

• issued by a licensed doctor

• based on a proper medical evaluation

• compliant with Italian regulations

Not all conditions are suitable for remote certification, and doctors may require an in-person visit when necessary.

Language and Format

Medical certificates in Italy are usually written in Italian. For international use, doctors may issue certificates in English when requested, depending on the purpose and recipient.

Patients should always confirm the language and format required by employers or institutions before the consultation.

Costs and Validity

The cost of a medical certificate varies depending on the type of certificate and consultation method. Validity periods depend on the purpose of the certificate and are determined by the issuing doctor.

FAQ

Can tourists get a medical certificate in Italy?
Yes, tourists can obtain medical certificates through private or online medical consultations.

Is a foreign doctor’s certificate valid in Italy?
Often no. Italian institutions usually require certificates issued by doctors licensed in Italy.

Can a pharmacy issue a medical certificate?
No. Only licensed medical doctors can issue medical certificates.

Conclusion

Obtaining a medical certificate in Italy as a foreigner is straightforward when you understand the system. Choosing the appropriate consultation method ensures faster access, legal validity, and proper documentation for work, travel, or insurance needs.

Reviewed by a licensed medical doctor experienced in digital healthcare and international patient assistance.