What happened
- 16 October: student marches in many cities, including Rome and Milan, and school occupations in several towns.
- 17 October: a cost-of-living march in Milan ended with clashes in the centre (Duomo area): officers were injured, shops damaged and around 50 people detained, many of them minors.
- 21 October: the government approved new security measures, including sending military personnel to Milan.
- Farmers and freight drivers joined the protests, and fuel shortages were reported in parts of the south.
Grievances cited by organisers include the cost of living, fuel prices, rents and education.
How it affects you in practice
- Getting around: expect road closures and public transport changes in city centres. Check transport apps before leaving.
- Questura or Consulate appointments: if yours is in a central area, leave extra time.
- Fuel: if you're driving in the south, check petrol stations along your route.
- Documents: always carry your passport and residence permit (or renewal receipt). Police may ask for them and you must show them.
A useful legal note
Taking part in a peaceful demonstration is a right. But being involved in crimes or disorder can have criminal consequences and, for a foreign national, consequences for your residence permit too. If you receive any police notice, talk to a lawyer.
Published: 24 October 2026. This guide is general information and does not replace a lawyer's advice on your specific case. Italian immigration rules change often.