Italy is set to implement a significant shift in its immigration policies for 2025–26, as the government announces the issuance of 165,000 work visas to address labour shortages across key sectors like agriculture, construction, and eldercare. These new measures are part of a broader three-year migration strategy aimed at enhancing legal migration channels while curbing illegal employment practices.
Here is everything you need to know about the Italy Work Visa 2025–26 program, including application guidelines, processing steps, required documents, new policy changes, and more.
Italy to Grant 165k Work Visas 2025-26
To tackle acute labour shortages and protect workers’ rights, Italy has introduced a comprehensive visa program. Here’s a snapshot of the 2025 quotas:
| Visa Type | Quota |
|---|---|
| Total Work Visas | 165,000 |
| Seasonal Work Visas | 93,550 |
| Non-Seasonal Subordinate Work | 70,720 |
| Self-Employment Visas | 730 |
This initiative is part of Italy’s three-year migration plan (2023–2025), aiming to bring in approximately 452,000 foreign workers.
Key Changes and Highlights for 2025
Legal Work During Permit Processing Seasonal migrant workers can now legally start employment while their permits are being processed. This change helps prevent income loss, reduces exploitation, and tackles illegal employment.
Increased Work Visa Quotas, Compared to previous years, the quota has been increased from 151,000 to 165,000 to meet labour market demands.
Digitalization of the Process, By March 2024, the Italian immigration system was modernised to allow online submission of job offers via electronic contracts and certified email (PEC), minimizing in-person visits.
Flexible EU Blue Card Terms, The minimum work contract duration for the EU Blue Card has been reduced from 12 to 6 months, with a new salary range set at 1 to 1.6 times the average national salary. Extra Permits for Healthcare, In October 2024, an additional 10,000 out-of-quota permits were introduced for roles in family and healthcare assistance, reflecting Italy’s ageing population.
General Information Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Italy Work Visa 2025–26 |
| Total Quota | 165,000 visas |
| Application Start Date | Expected Early 2025 |
| Priority Sectors | Agriculture, Healthcare, Construction, ICT |
| Permit Type | Seasonal, Non-Seasonal, Self-Employed |
| Processing Time | 1–3 months |
| Residence Permit Validity | 1–2 years (renewable) |
Eligibility Requirements for Seasonal Workers
If you’re applying under the seasonal worker category, you must –
- Proof of Application: Submit a receipt showing that your permit conversion application has been filed.
- Electronic Job Filing: Ensure your employer submits the Unilav form electronically to the Ministry of Labour.
- Social Security Registration: For domestic or caregiving roles, registration with the INPS (Italy’s social security body) is mandatory.
Targeted Sectors in 2025
The Italian government is prioritising several sectors with high labour demands:
- Agriculture & Horticulture
- Construction
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Healthcare and Eldercare
- ICT and Renewable Energy (for highly skilled applicants)
Italy Work Visa for Highly Skilled Professionals
Aimed at attracting international talent in sectors facing skill shortages, the highly skilled visa is a major opportunity in 2025.
Key sectors include:
- Information Technology (IT)
- Engineering and Infrastructure
- Renewable Energy
- Medical and Healthcare Services
Benefits:
- Competitive salaries
- Pathway to long-term residency
- EU Blue Card eligibility
Application Fees
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Work Visa Application Fee | €116 |
| Residence Permit (Permit Card) | €80–€110 |
| Additional Stamp Duty | €16 |
Required Documents
- Valid Passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Nulla Osta (issued by employer)
- Signed Job Contract
- Passport-size Photos
- Proof of Accommodation in Italy
- Completed Visa Application Form
- Health Insurance (valid in Italy)
- Proof of INPS Registration (for domestic workers)
- Proof of Educational Qualifications (for skilled visas)
Italy’s 2025–26 work visa expansion reflects the country’s commitment to creating a fair and regulated system for labour migration. With 165,000 visas available and improved legal pathways, now is an excellent time for migrant workers and professionals to consider Italy as a destination.
From seasonal farm jobs to advanced roles in IT and healthcare, the Italian labour market is opening up like never before, offering legal protection, structured processes, and the promise of the dolce vita.
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