The passport, along with the national identity card, allows for free movement and residence in any EU member state, in the European Economic Area and in Switzerland.

According to the Henley Passport Index, by 2024, with 194 countries with "Visa-free" access (including "Visa on arrival" and "Electronic Travel Authorization" - eTA) it is the strongest passport in the world tied with France, Germany, Japan, Singapore and Spain.

As of January 2024, Italian citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 194 countries and territories, ranking the Italian passport 1st in terms of travel freedom (tied with France, Germany, Japan, Singapore and Spain) according to the Henley Passport Index.

The requirement to attach an annual revenue stamp inside the passport was canceled in 2014.

One passport will have to be stored in a Questura (provincial headquarters of the State Police) or consulate.