Law on the sea: the professions of diving instructor and guide are created
There are many requirements. If you are an EU, Swiss or eurozone citizen, you can also work in Italia
Key points
Among the novelties introduced by the law 70/2026 on the enhancement of the sea resource, published in the Official Gazette 106 of 9 May, there is also the definition of some professions, such asthe diving instructor and the diving guide. Article 9 states that a diving instructor is anyone who, in possession of the corresponding patent, teaches individuals or groups the techniques - at all levels and specialisations - of recreational diving. A dive guide, on the other hand, is anyone who, with the necessary patent, accompanies individuals or groups with the necessary patent to dive for recreational purposes. The diving instructor, Article 11(5) specifies, may also act as a diving guide.
Both professions can be exercised throughout the country, at diving and training centres, at non-profit organisations, but also independently. In any case, a maximum number of six divers may participate in each session, entrusted to a diving instructor or guide: this is stipulated in subsection 6 of Article 12, which regulates the exercise of the activity in diving and training centres. Dives that require the use of auxiliary breathing apparatus, whether carried out by private individuals or by authorised persons, cannot be conducted alone: at least two people must participate. In any case, those who dive must comply with current regulations on environmental protection and the protection of the underwater cultural heritage.
Requirements
Both instructors and guides must fulfil multiple requirements. Indeed, one must:
- be a legal adult;
- have Italian citizenship or citizenship of another European Union country or a residence permit if you are a citizen of a non-EU country;
- have civil and political rights;
- be in possession of a licence issued by a diving didactic organisation;
- individual insurance cover for third-party liability covering risks to third parties arising from the performance of the activity;
- insurance cover for risks to employees or collaborators as a result of accidents related to the activity carried out; and finally, a valid medical certificate.
If you are a citizen of the European Union, a eurozone state or a Swiss national and you are qualified to work as a guide or instructor, you can also carry out your activity in Italia. If you work on a temporary and occasional basis, you must use the freedom to provide services regime, but it is also possible to practise on a permanent basis subject to recognition of the qualification obtained abroad. In any case, instructors and guides are obliged to ensure the regular maintenance of equipment and apparatus and to keep a register in which the data on testing and maintenance are recorded.
