Italy to Grant 165,000 Work Visas in 2025: New Rights for Seasonal Workers
Italy is taking bold steps to modernize its immigration and labour systems. With a record 165,000 work visas to be issued in 2025 and new rights introduced for seasonal workers, the country aims to meet growing labour demands while protecting migrant workers’ rights. Here’s what you need to know.
A Landmark Shift in Italy’s Immigration Policy
In a significant policy change, Italy now allows seasonal migrant workers to begin working legally while their residence permits are still being processed. This marks a major departure from the previous system, which left many in limbo—unable to work and vulnerable to exploitation.
What’s New: Legal Work Rights During Permit Processing
Under the new directive, seasonal workers no longer have to wait for full approval to start working. Instead, they can legally begin employment once specific conditions are met:
- Proof of Application: Workers must provide a receipt confirming they’ve applied to convert their seasonal residence permit into a regular work permit.
- Electronic Job Filing: Submission of the Unilav form (used for employment declarations) is required.
- Social Security Registration: For domestic jobs, the employer must register the employment relationship with INPS, Italy’s social security body.
These requirements ensure that workers are recognized within Italy’s employment system and are protected under national labour laws.
Combating Exploitation and Irregular Employment
Previously, the gap between permit application and approval often forced migrant workers into irregular jobs, exposing them to poor conditions and financial uncertainty. The new rules bridge that gap, allowing for legal, documented employment from day one—a big win for both workers and employers.
165,000 Work Visas Planned for 2025
To address critical labour shortages, especially in sectors like agriculture, construction, and caregiving, Italy will increase its work visa quota to 165,000 in 2025—up from 151,000 in 2024 and 136,000 in 2023.
Of these:
- 93,550 visas will be allocated to seasonal workers, up from 89,050 in 2024.
- 10,000 visas will go to foreign care workers, a group in high demand due to Italy’s rapidly ageing population.
This growth reflects Italy’s broader economic and demographic needs.
High-Demand Sectors: Opportunities for Migrant Workers
Italy is especially targeting sectors with acute labour shortages. These include:
- Agriculture & Tourism: Seasonal work continues to be a lifeline for these industries.
- Elderly & Home Care: With an ageing population, the need for caregivers is more urgent than ever.
- Construction & Healthcare: Expanding infrastructure and health services require skilled foreign labour.
If you’re a migrant worker or planning to work in Italy, 2025 presents expanded opportunities in these essential sectors.
A Structured Migration Plan for Long-Term Growth
This visa expansion is part of Italy’s three-year migration strategy, which defines annual quotas based on economic forecasts and sectoral needs. The aim is to ensure:
- A steady, legal flow of workers
- Reduced informal and exploitative employment
- A more organized and humane immigration system
What This Means for Migrant Workers and Employers
For workers:
- You can now work legally before your regular permit is fully processed, provided you meet the set conditions.
- There are more job opportunities than ever, especially in high-demand sectors.
For employers:
- Ensure all employment documents are filed correctly to comply with the new directive.
- Benefit from a larger, legal, and protected workforce.
Final Thoughts
Italy’s new directive is a transformative step toward fairer and more practical immigration policies. By allowing seasonal workers to start jobs during the permit processing period and significantly expanding visa quotas, the country is addressing both humanitarian concerns and economic realities.
If you’re looking to work in Italy, 2025 could be your best opportunity yet.
For more details, please contact my team. Thank you.
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