Italy Work Visa 2025: Apply, Eligibility & Process
Italy has introduced new regulations for its 2025 work visa and residence permit program under the Decreto Flussi framework, aimed at simplifying the entry of skilled non-EU workers and addressing national labor shortages across key sectors.
According to the Italian Ministry of Interior, foreign nationals who receive a valid job offer from an Italian employer can apply for a work visa, provided they meet educational and professional eligibility criteria. Employers must also confirm that no equally qualified Italian or EU citizen is available for the role before hiring a non-EU worker.
The new policy outlines multiple visa categories, including seasonal, non-seasonal, self-employment, and intra-company transfer permits. Seasonal visas are typically valid for up to nine months, while non-seasonal and self-employment permits may extend from one to two years, with renewal options based on contract duration and continued eligibility.
Applicants must first secure a “Nulla Osta” (work authorization) from the Italian immigration office before submitting their visa application. Once approved and upon arrival in Italy, workers are required to apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within eight days at their local Questura office.
Processing times for work visa applications generally range between two to three months, depending on embassy workload and documentation accuracy. The visa fees vary between €116 and €200, depending on the type of permit.
The updated 2025 rules also align with Italy’s broader economic objectives under Decreto Flussi, which allocates annual quotas for foreign workers to fill gaps in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, hospitality, healthcare, and construction.
Officials have encouraged applicants to prepare early and ensure all documents are properly translated and legalized to avoid processing delays. The move reinforces Italy’s commitment to supporting a regulated and efficient labor migration system while meeting workforce demands in critical economic sectors.