Italy is to make it compulsory for all workers in the nation to have a Covid “green pass” – so what is it and how will work?

Italy is set to make it compulsory for all workers within the nation to carry a COVID Green Pass – a document displaying proof of vaccination, negative test or recovery from the virus.

Green Passes have already been rolled out across Italy, but for different sectors. Currently, they are already required to access train stations within Italy as well as entertainment venues such as cinemas along with recreational activities including swimming pools and gyms.

The pass is also required in order to access a cafe or restaurant.

Educational staff including teachers are already required to show a Green Pass – some have been blocked from working due to failure to display one

The mandate across the Italian workforce is the first of its kind to be rolled out in Europe and one of the strictest, too.

The document will state proof of vaccination, a negative test or recovery from the virus.

Anyone without a pass will reportedly face suspension from work and may have their pay stopped after five days.

The Italian Government recently approved a law to extend the requirements to all workplaces and employees across all workforces – including those that are self-employed.

Organisations as well as employees face penalties if found to be working without holding a Green Pass.

Almost 65% of Italians have now been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 however in recent months, infections have again started to rise to the contagious Delta variant of the virus.

Since the pandemic begun, Italy has recorded more than 4.6 million cases of COVID to date and over 130,000 COVID-related deaths.