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Italy has long been an important place for migrant workers in Europe. Many people come to work in farming, building, and caring for others. Every year, thousands of migrants go to Italy to do needed jobs and help keep the country working.
In 2025, Italy decided to make a big change to improve how it handles labor immigration. The government will offer 165,000 work visas—more than ever before. Out of these, 93,550 will go to seasonal workers, showing how much Italy depends on foreign labor. The government also introduced a new rule that lets seasonal workers start working legally before their permits are fully approved. This change is part of a larger plan to make the immigration process better and protect workers’ rights.
The new policy holds considerable importance for both Italy’s labor market and its migrant workforce.
Breakdown of the 2025 Work Visa Quota
In 2025, Italy will approve 165,000 work visas as part of its plan to grow its labor migration program. This increase is a clear step to help fill important job shortages in many industries.
When compared to previous years, the upward trend is clear:
- 2023: 136,000 work visas
- 2024: 151,000 work visas
- 2025: 165,000 work visas
The 2025 quota is divided into two primary categories:
- Seasonal work visas: 93,550 permits will be allocated to seasonal employment. This category includes sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and tourism, where labor demands fluctuate by season and depend heavily on migrant workers.
- Non-seasonal and multi-entry work visas: 71,450 permits will cover other essential roles, including those in construction, senior care, manufacturing, and transport. These areas continue to face persistent staffing challenges due to an aging workforce and declining local participation.
Major Policy Change: Early Employment Rights for Seasonal Workers
One big change in Italy’s 2025 work rules is that seasonal workers can now start their jobs while waiting for their work permits. Before, they had to wait until the permit was fully approved. This new rule makes it easier for them to begin working sooner.
The new policy aims to cut down delays, protect workers from being treated unfairly, and support legal jobs. It helps seasonal workers start working faster and shows that Italy values their rights and the work they do.
To qualify for this early employment provision, workers and their employers must meet three specific eligibility conditions:
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Proof of Application for Permit Change
The worker must show a valid receipt that proves they have applied to change their seasonal permit into a regular work permit. This step confirms that they are officially starting the move from temporary to long-term work.
Submission of the Unilav Employment Form
The employer must send the Unilav form online. This is Italy’s official document to report new jobs. The form must show that the worker has started a regular, non-seasonal job.
Enrollment in Social Security (INPS)
The job must be registered with Italy’s National Social Security Institute (INPS). This makes sure the worker gets legal social protection and pays into the country’s social insurance system.
Benefits of the Policy Shift
The 2025 policy change that lets seasonal workers start work early benefits everyone involved. It matches legal steps with real job needs, helps protect workers, supports employers, and strengthens Italy’s economy.
For Migrant Workers
The policy greatly lowers the risk of workers being exploited. In the past, seasonal workers had to wait for permit approval and often worked in unsafe or illegal jobs during that time. The new law gives them the right to work while waiting, which provides better legal protection.
Workers also get a steady income, which helps them take care of themselves and their families without breaks. This financial support eases hardship, improves their lives, and builds more trust in Italy’s migration system.
For Italian Employers
Employers get faster access to workers, which is helpful in jobs with seasonal or urgent needs. The new rule lets businesses avoid costly delays while waiting for permits to be approved.
This reform also helps cut down on illegal or undocumented hiring. By making it easier to hire workers legally right away, the new rule supports clear and fair practices. It also helps employers follow labor laws and plan better for the future.
For the Economy
Italy’s economy will benefit from having more workers in key areas like farming, tourism, construction, and senior care. These industries rely on seasonal and migrant workers, and the new policy helps provide a steady and legally protected workforce.
Implications for Prospective Migrant Workers
Italy’s increased 2025 work visa limit and new job rights open more chances for migrant workers. To succeed, it’s important to understand who can apply, how to apply, and what the legal steps are to start working in Italy.
How to Qualify for Seasonal and Long-Term Work Permits
To get a seasonal work permit, applicants need a job offer in approved sectors like farming or tourism. They must also meet Italy’s visa quota rules. These permits usually last for a short time and are tied to one employer and job.
To get a long-term (non-seasonal) work permit, workers must either apply for a job in areas like construction, healthcare, or caregiving, or change a seasonal permit into a regular one. This process needs support from an employer and must follow Italy’s labor and immigration rules.
Steps to Apply and Begin Working
Secure a Job Offer
The first step is to obtain a formal employment offer from an Italian employer operating within an eligible sector.
Submit the Visa Application
Workers must apply through Italy’s immigration portal, typically with the support of their employer. Applications should include job contracts, passport copies, and relevant supporting documents.
File Required Forms
Employers must submit the Unilav employment form electronically to register the job relationship with Italian authorities.
Enroll in Social Security (INPS)
Workers must be enrolled in the Italian National Social Security Institute (INPS) to ensure legal employment and access to social benefits.
Track Application Progress
While the permit is being processed, seasonal workers who meet all conditions may begin working legally under the early employment provision.
Importance of Legal Documentation and Employer Compliance
Keeping clear and complete documents is very important. Workers should save all applications, receipts, and messages. They must also make sure their employers follow the rules, like submitting the Unilav form and registering the job with INPS.
Employers must follow the rules to protect worker rights and ensure legal jobs. Migrant workers should get help from trusted sources or legal experts to understand the process and stay safe from exploitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can seasonal workers begin employment before their permits are approved?
Yes. Under the new policy, seasonal workers can start working legally while their permit change application is under review, provided they meet specific conditions.
How can I apply for a seasonal work visa?
You need a formal job offer from an Italian employer. Then, apply through Italy’s immigration portal with the required documents. Ensure the employer files the Unilav form and registers you with INPS.
Is it possible to convert a seasonal permit into a long-term work permit?
Yes. Seasonal workers may apply to convert their permits if they secure non-seasonal employment and meet the legal and administrative conditions.
How many work visas will Italy issue in 2025?
Italy plans to issue 165,000 work visas in 2025. This marks an increase from 151,000 in 2024 and 136,000 in 2023, reflecting the country’s growing labor demands.
Conclusion
A main part of the new policy is that seasonal workers can start working legally while waiting for their new permit. This helps protect them from unfair treatment, supports legal jobs, and lets them keep earning money during the wait. Employers also benefit by getting workers faster and not needing to hire people illegally.
People who want to work in Italy are strongly encouraged to look into the new 2025 visa opportunities. With the right documents, legal job options, and support, Italy now offers a safer and more welcoming place for foreign workers.
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