Immigrate to Italy

The main route for non-EU workers with a job offer from an employer in Italy. Italy sets quotas for most new foreign workers through a planning decree known as the Decreto Flussi. Your employer applies online for a work authorisation (nulla osta) from the Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione at the local prefecture, usually during set application windows. Once it is issued, you apply for the visa at the Italian mission where you live. It generally suits people with a firm job offer in sectors covered by the quotas. It typically depends on the quota available, the employer’s application and checks carried out in Italy.

NOTEQuotas, eligible sectors and application windows are set by decree and change over time.

A work permit for highly qualified employees with a job offer in Italy. You usually need a higher education qualification or, in some cases, relevant professional experience, and the salary must meet a minimum level. It sits outside the Decreto Flussi quotas. The employer applies for the nulla osta, and employers that have signed an agreement with the Ministry of the Interior can use a simpler procedure. It suits engineers, IT specialists, finance professionals and other skilled staff. Family members usually benefit from simpler reunification rules.

NOTEThe minimum salary level is set by law and reviewed periodically.

For highly qualified people who work remotely, either as employees of a company or as self-employed professionals. It does not need a nulla osta, and it sits outside the quotas. You apply at the Italian mission in the country where you live. It generally suits experienced professionals who can already work remotely. It typically depends on your qualifications or experience, a minimum annual income, health insurance, accommodation in Italy and a record of previous remote work.

NOTEThe income requirement is linked to a figure set by law and may change.

For researchers with a hosting agreement from a university or research institution in Italy. It sits outside the quotas, and the host institution usually starts the authorisation and supports the paperwork. It suits doctoral graduates and experienced researchers. It typically depends on the hosting agreement, your qualifications and the funding for the research project.