Australian travellers heading to Italy have been warned to always carry their passport with them when sightseeing rather than leaving it at their accommodation.
According to Italian law, non-European visitors must carry their passport as a form of identification if requested by the police during a random check.
In many cases a copy is acceptable, but the officer may request the physical version to perform a complete identity verification.
Failure to do so poses a potential risk, depending on the officer, as the law states that a foreigner must present a passport if requested by the police, according to Pro Travel Visa.
A conversation broke out in a popular Facebook group after an American woman asked whether people always carry their passports with them when they travel or not.
Many revealed that they prefer to keep their passport locked in a safe and carry only a photocopy for fear of pickpockets.
Although the vast majority admitted that they carry their all-important passport with them 24/7, in a safety belt hidden under their clothes.
“We asked the police this question while we were there. They told us to take her with us,” one traveler wrote.
Australian visitors travelling to European cities are advised to carry their passport as a form of identification in case a police officer conducts a random identity check.
“It’s the law and they’re doing a lot more random paperwork checks now. If you only have one copy or don’t have one with you, you’re breaking the law and at the very least you can be fined a hefty amount,” said another.
However, it is not specified that failure to present a passport will result in a fine. In addition, the police often patrol places with heavy traffic, such as airports and train stations.
But others are not willing to take any risks.
“Take them everywhere, it’s the law. In Italy they are guests and must abide by their laws. Their other IDs and driving licenses are of no use there,” added a third.
An American woman said she was lectured by a car rental agency about getting a national ID card, when such a document does not exist in Australia.
Failure to do so poses a potential risk, according to the officer, as the law states that a foreigner must present a passport if requested by a police officer.
Others said they had no idea about Italian law and said they tend to leave their passport in a safe.
“I always keep my passport in a safe in my hotel room. I carry a copy and my driver’s license with me. Too much can happen if you carry it around,” wrote one.
“The only time I needed it immediately was for spot checks on the train and when checking into the hotel,” said another.
Another added: ‘I was in Italy the last two weeks of June. We carry our passports in our cross-body purses (in front, across the chest). In some places they require them, especially for those under 18.
“I never felt like someone was going to take my bag. Keep copies of your passports in your luggage at the hotel and leave copies at home in case you lose yours.”
This highlights the importance of researching the laws, rules and restrictions of each new place you visit before you arrive at your destination.