Ski Insurance is compulsory in Italy

Since January 1, 2022, a new Italian law (Legislative Decree 40/21) has made it mandatory for all skiers and snowboarders on alpine ski slopes in Italy to have third-party liability insurance. 

This law applies to everyone, regardless of age, and is intended to cover damages or injuries you might cause to others on the slopes.

Here's what you need to know about the requirements, especially concerning off-piste skiing:

Mandatory Insurance Requirements

• Third-Party Liability Insurance: This is the core requirement. Your insurance must cover your civil liability for any damage or injury you cause to other people or their property while on the slopes.

• Proof of Insurance: You are required to have proof of your insurance policy with you at all times while skiing. This can be a physical document or a digital copy on your phone. Ski patrol or police can and do perform checks.

• Fines and Consequences: If you are caught on the slopes without valid third-party liability insurance, you can be fined between €100 and €150 and have your ski pass confiscated.

Which Resorts?

The law is a national decree, meaning it applies to all ski resorts in Italy. This includes major resorts and ski areas such as:

• Dolomiti Superski (Cortina d'Ampezzo, Val Gardena, Alta Badia, etc.)

• Via Lattea (Sestriere, Sauze d'Oulx, etc.)

• Livigno

• Cervinia

• Courmayeur

• Madonna di Campiglio

How to Comply

• Check your existing travel insurance: If you have a travel insurance policy that includes winter sports coverage, confirm that it provides third-party liability and that it specifically covers any off-piste activities you plan to do. Most uk Policies show this as Personal Liability ( JS has £2million cover ) 

• Purchase insurance with your lift pass: Most Italian ski resorts now offer the mandatory third-party liability insurance for a small daily fee (often around €3) when you purchase your ski pass. This is a convenient option if you don't have existing coverage that meets the requirements.

• Buy a standalone policy: You can also purchase a dedicated winter sports insurance policy from a provider before your trip. This often provides more comprehensive coverage, including for medical expenses, rescue, and equipment, which the basic liability insurance purchased with a lift pass does not.