Italy Work Visa 2025: Italy, a leading destination for international travelers and foreign workers, is making bold moves to modernize its immigration system. In a major policy update, the Italian government will issue 165,000 work visas in 2025, including new rights for seasonal migrant workers who will now be allowed to start working legally before receiving full permit approval.
This change aims to reduce illegal employment, address labor shortages, and ensure the protection of foreign workers—particularly in sectors like agriculture, tourism, construction, and elderly care.
Seasonal Workers Can Start Working Legally Before Permit Approval
Under the updated immigration policy, foreign seasonal workers no longer have to wait until their permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) is fully converted to a non-seasonal work permit to begin working legally.
To be eligible, they must meet the following conditions:
1. Submit Proof of Permit Conversion Application
Workers must present a receipt confirming they’ve applied to convert their seasonal residence permit into a standard work permit.
Apply through the official immigration portal: Portale Servizi – Ministero dell’Interno
2. File the UNILAV Form Electronically
Employers must register the employment relationship by submitting the UNILAV form through Italy’s Ministry of Labour.
Visit: UNILAV Guidelines – Ministero del Lavoro
3. INPS Registration for Domestic Workers
For caregiving or domestic roles, the employment must be registered with the Istituto Nazionale della Previdenza Sociale (INPS).
Register employment here: https://www.inps.it
4. Check for Regional Labor Office (Centro per l’Impiego) Requirements
Some local labor offices may request additional documentation.
Locate your local labor office: https://www.anpal.gov.it/centri-per-l-impiego
These conditions are designed to integrate migrant workers into Italy’s labor system while protecting their rights from the start.
Preventing Exploitation and Supporting Legal Employment
Previously, seasonal migrants were unable to work legally during the permit conversion process, leaving them vulnerable to under-the-table jobs, financial hardship, and exploitation.
This policy change eliminates that risk by granting provisional work rights, offering a safer and more reliable environment for both workers and employers.
The reform is part of Italy’s commitment to a more humane and efficient immigration system, as outlined in its 2023–2025 migration plan.
Learn more about immigration policy at: Ministero dell’Interno – Immigrazione e Asilo
Italy to Issue 165,000 Work Visas in 2025: A New Record
The Italian government has announced that it will increase its Decreto Flussi (Flow Decree) quota to:
- 165,000 Italy work visa in 2025
- Up from 151,000 in 2024
- And 136,000 in 2023
Of the total 2025 permits:
- 93,550 visas will be reserved for seasonal workers
- 10,000 permits will be allocated to foreign caregivers
- Additional quotas are reserved for construction and healthcare professionals
Official Decreto Flussi documents: https://www.interno.gov.it/it/temi/immigrazione-e-asilo/politiche-migratorie/decreti-flussi
View annual quota breakdown: Ministry of Labour Immigration Quotas
High Demand in Elderly Care and Construction Sectors
Italy’s ageing population is creating strong demand for foreign caregivers. In 2025, 10,000 work permits will be issued specifically for this group, allowing more workers to enter legally and support the country’s healthcare system.
Other high-demand sectors include:
- Construction and building trades
- Agriculture and seasonal harvesting
- Tourism and hospitality
Occupational demand insights: https://www.anpal.gov.it (National Agency for Active Labour Policies)
Part of Italy’s Three-Year Immigration Plan
Italy’s three-year migration framework sets structured annual quotas to ensure legal, organized migration and address real labor market needs.
The plan also reduces the informal job market by offering clear legal pathways for both seasonal and skilled workers.
Track immigration updates and quotas here: https://www.lavoro.gov.it
Download official forms and procedures: Immigration Portal – Sportello Unico Immigrazione
What Migrant Workers Need to Know about Italy Work Visa in 2025
If you’re planning to work in Italy in 2025, here’s what you need to know:
- You can start working legally while your permit is being processed if you follow the steps outlined above.
- Your employer must correctly submit the UNILAV form and any INPS registrations.
- There are more visa opportunities than ever—particularly in caregiving, construction, agriculture, and tourism.
For family reunification or additional visa services, visit: Polizia di Stato – Immigration Services
Conclusion:
Italy Modernizes Work Visa System for 2025
Italy’s updated immigration policies mark a progressive step forward in protecting migrant labor, addressing workforce shortages, and promoting legal employment pathways.
With 165,000 work permits available, and new protections allowing seasonal workers to begin legally employed while awaiting permit conversion, Italy is shaping a fairer, more structured immigration model that benefits everyone.
For ongoing updates or to apply, use these verified government portals:
- Portale Immigrazione – Ministero dell’Interno
- Ministero del Lavoro e delle Politiche Sociali
- INPS – National Social Security Institute
- ANPAL – Employment Services
- Decreto Flussi Updates
