Italy

About the country

Italy is a country located in southern Europe on the Apennine Peninsula. Its official name is the Italian Republic, or "Repubblica Italiana". The government is shaped like a high-heeled boot, kicking a ball (the island of Sicily).

Italy borders France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia and also surrounds the small countries of San Marino and Vatican City. It has a largely temperate seasonal and Mediterranean climate.

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Italy has a population of about 60 million. Its capital and largest city is Rome, also home to Vatican City, an independent city-state run by the Catholic Church.

Italy has a rich cultural history and was the home of the Roman Empire. It is well-known for its contributions to art, architecture, fashion, opera, literature, design, and film. The country also has a distinguished culinary tradition and is famous for pasta, pizza, gelato, espresso, and wine.

Italy's economy is one of the largest in the Eurozone and is a highly developed country. Significant industries include fashion, automobiles, machinery, food, and tourism.

Italy is a founding member of the United Nations, NATO, the G7, the G20, and the OECD. It's also part of the Schengen Area, which allows passport-free movement across much of Europe and uses the Euro as its currency.

Where are the available jobs?

1. Tourism: Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world, so jobs related to hospitality, travel services, and tour guides are typically in high demand.
2. Fashion and Design: Italy, particularly Milan, is renowned for its fashion industry. Jobs in this sector could range from design to marketing and sales.
3. Automobile Industry: Italy is home to several prominent automobile manufacturers, such as Fiat and Ferrari. There may be jobs available in design, manufacturing, and sales.
4. Food and Wine Industry: Italy's culinary tradition provides jobs in agriculture, wine production, food processing, and culinary arts.
5. Education and Language Teaching: English teachers are often in demand, particularly in larger cities.
6. Healthcare: As in many countries, healthcare professionals are often needed.
7. Information Technology: Like in most parts of the world, IT professionals are also in demand in Italy.

Hot jobs:

1. IT Professionals: As the digital revolution continues, there is a high demand for IT professionals. This includes roles such as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts, and IT project managers.
2. Healthcare Professionals: There's a consistent demand for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and medical technicians, a trend that's been heightened due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
3. Engineers: Engineers, especially in mechanical, civil, electrical, and automotive engineering, are highly sought after.
4. Environmental Scientists/Engineers: With increasing focus on sustainability and environmental conservation, environmental science and engineering experts are increasingly in demand.
5. E-commerce Specialists: Online shopping has increased demand for professionals skilled in e-commerce, including digital marketing and SEO specialists.
6. Renewable Energy Specialists: Italy, like many other countries, invests in renewable energy, leading to job growth in this sector.
7. Specialized Teachers: Especially language (English, German, etc.) and STEM teachers are in demand.

Shortage Occupations in Italy 2020:

1. Healthcare: The pandemic increased demand for healthcare professionals globally, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare workers.
2. Information Technology (IT): IT professionals like software developers, data scientists, cybersecurity experts, and IT managers have been in high demand as the world becomes more digital and businesses transition to online services.
3. Supply Chain and Logistics: The disruption of global supply chains due to the pandemic increased the need for professionals in this sector, particularly those who could navigate the complexities of global logistics during a crisis.
4. Education (Online Learning): As many schools shifted to online learning, there was a higher demand for educators who could effectively teach in an online environment, including those who could teach English as a foreign language.
5. E-commerce and Digital Marketing Professionals: The shift to online shopping has increased the demand for professionals skilled in e-commerce, SEO, and digital marketing.

Minimum Wage – Italy in table

So that you know, these figures are approximate and may have changed since my last update. It's essential to consult the most recent collective bargaining agreements and refer to the current legislation to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on minimum wage rates in Italy.

Additionally, some regions and municipalities in Italy may have local minimum wage regulations, which can differ from the abovementioned rates.

Types of Work Permits in Italy

1. Subordinate Work Visa (Tipo D): This is for those who have received a job offer in Italy, and it covers general employment, seasonal work and self-employment. The employer typically has to apply for the permit on behalf of the employee. It's further divided into categories like:

   • Seasonal Work Permit: For short-term, seasonal employment in the tourism or agriculture sectors.

   • Self-Employment Permit: For those intending to start a business or work as a freelancer in Italy.

2. EU Blue Card: This is for highly skilled workers. Applicants must have a job offer or contract in an EU country and meet specific salary and education requirements. The EU Blue Card also makes moving and working in other EU countries more accessible.

3. Intra-company Transfer Work Permit (ICT): This is for employees transferred from a company's office outside the EU to an office or branch in Italy.

4. Researcher Work Visa: Those intending to conduct scientific research at a recognised institution.

5. Study and Training Work Permit: Some student visas allow part-time work. Additionally, Italy offers keys for those seeking vocational training or internship opportunities.

Types of Visas

1. Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa): This short-stay visa allows you to visit Italy and other Schengen countries for tourism for up to 90 days within 180 days.
2. Business Visa: For individuals visiting Italy for business-related activities such as meetings, negotiations, or attending conferences. This is also a short-stay visa, similar to a tourist visa.
3. Work Visa: This visa is for individuals who have received a job offer in Italy. It is usually valid for extended periods; your employer usually applies for you.
4. Student Visa: This is for individuals who have been accepted to a course of study in Italy. It allows you to stay in the country for the duration of your system.
5. Family Reunion Visa: For family members of Italian residents or citizens who wish to move to Italy to be with their family.
6. Transit Visa: This type of Schengen visa allows you to pass through Italy to reach another country. It's typically valid for a short period, like a few days.
7. Long-stay or National Visa (Visa D): This visa allows you to stay in Italy for over 90 days. It can be issued for various reasons like employment, study, family reunion, or religious purposes.

Requirements to acquire an Italy​​​​​​ work permit

1. Job Offer: First, you need a job offer from an employer in Italy. The employer is typically the one who starts the work permit application process.

2. Work Permit Application by the Employer (Nulla Osta al Lavoro): The employer applies for a work permit (Nulla Osta al Lavoro) from the Single Desk for Immigration at their local Prefettura (provincial office). The employer must provide information about the company and the job offer.

3. Authorization: If the application is approved, the employer will receive an authorisation to hire a foreign worker. This document is valid for six months.

4. Visa Application by the Employee: The prospective employee can now apply for an Italian work visa at the Italian embassy or consulate in their home country. You'll generally need to provide the following:

   • A valid passport
   • The original Nulla Osta (Work Permit authorisation)
   • Completed visa application form
   • Passport-size photographs
   • Proof of accommodation in Italy
   • Proof of sufficient financial means
   • Additional documents may be required depending on the specifics of the job and the visa type.

5. Entry into Italy: The worker can travel to Italy once the visa is granted. They must apply for a Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within eight days of arriving in Italy.

6. Residence Permit Application: The application for the Residence Permit is made at the local post office in Italy. The application will be sent to the Immigration Office (Questura) for processing.

7. Residence Permit: The permit allows the worker to reside and work in Italy legally.

Steps to apply for an Italy​​​​​​ work permit:

1. Secure a Job Offer: To begin the process, you first need a job offer from an Italian employer.

2. Employer Initiates the Process: Your employer in Italy must submit a work permit application on your behalf. This is done at the Immigration Office (Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione) in their province.

3. Work Permit Approval (Nulla Osta): If the application is successful, the Immigration Office issues an authorisation document called Nulla Osta. This document states that the employee can work for the employer in Italy.

4. Apply for an Italian Work Visa: With the Nulla Osta in hand, you, as the prospective employee, can now apply for an Italian work visa (also known as an entrance visa) at the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country. The documents you will generally need to submit for the visa application include the following:

   • Completed visa application form
   • A valid passport
   • Passport-sized photos
   • The original Nulla Osta
   • Proof of accommodation in Italy
   • Proof of sufficient financial resources

5. Travel to Italy: Once your visa application has been approved, you can travel to Italy.

6. Apply for a Residence Permit: After arriving in Italy, you must apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within eight days. This application can usually be made at a post office or a police station.

7. Appointment at the Immigration Office (Questura): After submitting your application for a residence permit, you'll get an appointment at the local Questura for fingerprinting. Could you bring your passport and copies of your documents to work?

8. Receive Your Residence Permit: If your application is approved, you'll receive your Permesso di Soggiorno, allowing you to live and work in Italy legally.

These are general steps, and the process may vary depending on your specific situation and possible changes in Italian law. The process can take several months, so be prepared for that. Always refer to the most up-to-date information from official Italian government resources or consult with an immigration professional.

Benefits of a work permit 

A work permit benefits its holder, mainly working and living in a foreign country. Here are some of the critical benefits of having a work permit:

1. Legal Right to Work: The most immediate benefit is the legal right to work in a foreign country. It validates your employment and protects you from any legal issues related to working without proper authorisation.
2. Access to Social and Health Benefits: Work permit holders often have access to certain social benefits, including healthcare services. These benefits vary from country to country and are determined by local legislation.
3. Possibility of Long-term Stay: A work permit is typically the first step to a long-term stay in a country. It can sometimes pave the way towards applying for permanent residency or citizenship.
4. Protection of Labor Rights: With a work permit, you are generally protected under the local labour laws of the country. These laws govern work hours, minimum wage, safe working conditions, and more.
5. Opportunity for Family Reunification: In many countries, holding a work permit can open the door to bringing family members to live with you under family reunification provisions.
6. Freedom to Travel: Many work permits come with visas that allow you to work in the country of issue and travel in and out of the country, giving you more freedom of movement.

It's important to note that the specifics of these benefits can depend on the type of work permit, local laws and regulations, and your situation. For the most accurate and current information, always consult with immigration experts or official governmental resources.

How to Apply for an Italy Visa?

To apply for a visa to Italy, you would generally follow these steps:

1. Determine the type of visa: Identify the type of visa that corresponds to your purpose of travel. Common visa types include tourist visas, business visas, study visas, work visas, and family reunification visas. You can visit the official website of the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the specific visa type and requirements.
2. Gather the required documents: Prepare the necessary documents for your visa application. The specific requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Still, standard documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photographs, proof of travel insurance, flight itinerary, accommodation details, financial statements, and supporting documents related to the purpose of your visit (e.g., employment letter, enrollment letter from an educational institution, invitation letter).
3. Make an appointment: Schedule an appointment with the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country. Visa applications are typically processed through an online appointment system. Could you check the embassy's website for the specific procedure and availability of appointment slots?
4. Apply: Attend your appointment at the designated embassy or consulate and submit your visa application and the required documents. Be prepared to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints, as part of the application process.
5. Pay the visa fee: When submitting your application, pay the applicable visa fee. The fee amount can vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Please ensure you have the required payment method accepted by the embassy or consulate.
6. Wait for processing: After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by the consular authorities. The processing time can vary, so applying well before your planned travel dates is essential. Could you check with the embassy or consulate for an estimated processing time?
7. Collect your visa: Once your visa application is processed, you will be notified to collect your passport with the visa stamp. You can visit the embassy or consulate during the designated collection hours and bring the necessary identification documentation.

Just to let you know, the specific requirements and procedures for visa applications may vary based on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the particular guidelines of the Italian embassy or consulate. It's recommended to consult the official website of the Italian diplomatic mission in your home country for the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa applications.

About AtoZ Serwis Plus 

AtoZ Serwis Plus is a reputable and well-known B2C immigration agency providing specialised immigration services since 2009. With company registration offices in Poland, Portugal, Malta, Germany, and Romania and partner offices in various countries worldwide, they offer individualised immigration services to clients globally.

Supported by Polish attorneys and with company registration numbers Regon: 382604058, NIP: 5252780856, KRS: 0000770916, AtoZ Serwis Plus Sp. z o.o. is a Polish Overseas Career Consultant and is considered one of the largest B2C immigration firms in Europe. They work closely with regulated and licensed immigration lawyers in their offices in Poland and Portugal.

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How can AtoZ Serwis Plus assist you?

AtoZ Serwis Plus will provide the services listed below to get an Italy work visa:

• Counseling: Get AtoZ Serwis Plus’ free counselling services.
• Job services: Avail of AtoZ Serwis Plus’  job search services to find jobs in Italy
• Reviewing requirements: AtoZ Serwis Plus reviews all your requirements for an Italy visa
• Application process: We also help in completing your application process
• Requirements checklist: AtoZ Serwis Plus also helps you in arranging the requirements for an Italy work visa
• Complete visa application support
• Assistance with collecting supporting documentation
• Visa Interview Preparation – if required
• Updates & Follow-up with the Consulate

Willing to work in Italy? Talk to AtoZ Serwis Plus, Europe’s no. 1 overseas immigration consultant.

Would you like some advice? So that you know, the information I've included here is for you to review. You'll always need to consult with your legal and tax advisor(s) and follow their guidance. AtoZ Serwis Plus cannot assist with legal or tax matters. The information presented is not specific to any particular company or workforce nor reflects how AtoZ Serwis Plus products are distributed in any jurisdiction. Instead, it is general. AtoZ Serwis Plus makes no representations or warranties regarding this information's accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. It shall not be liable for any losses from using or relying on it. It is your responsibility to exercise caution when using this information.

Disclaimer: atozserwisplus.Pl is a FREE visa database and marketplace for immigration experts. This page's content does not provide legal advice. Before applying, kindly consult an expert.