Does an Italian Citizen Need a Work Visa for the USA?

Yes, an Italian citizen needs a work visa to work in the USA. Italy is not part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for work purposes, meaning Italians cannot work in the U.S. without a proper work visa.

Types of U.S. Work Visas for Italian Citizens:

H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations)

Requires a job offer from a U.S. employer

The employer must sponsor and file an application

Common for IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, etc.

L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)

For employees transferring within the same company from Italy to the U.S.

O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability)

For highly skilled professionals in science, arts, education, or sports

E-2 Visa (Investor Visa)

Available to Italians as Italy has a treaty with the U.S.

Requires a significant investment in a U.S. business

TN Visa (Not Available for Italians)

Only for Canadian and Mexican citizens under NAFTA

Can Italians Work in the U.S. Without a Visa?

❌ No. Even though Italy is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for tourism and business, it does not allow employment. A work visa is required.