Italy Work Visa 2027: Types, Steps and Residence

Why Work in Italy

Italy combines a rich culture, a relaxed lifestyle, public healthcare and access to the wider European Union. It also needs foreign workers in sectors such as farming, tourism, construction and family care. For 2027 alone, Italy has approved 165,850 work entry places for non-EU workers. Working legally in Italy can also open the door to long-term residence after five years.

Types of Italy Work Visas

Most Italian work visas fall under the annual quota system, called the decreto flussi. In 2027, there are 76,200 places for non-seasonal jobs, 89,000 for seasonal work and 650 for self-employment. Non-seasonal places include 14,000 for family care and domestic work. Seasonal visas let you work for up to nine months a year in agriculture or tourism, while some highly qualified roles can enter outside the quota system.

Requirements and Documents for an Italy Work Visa

The main requirement is a job offer from an Italian employer, who must obtain your work authorisation, called the nulla osta. There is no general language requirement for an Italian work visa, although your employer may ask for one. For your visa appointment, you usually need a valid passport, the national visa form, a recent photo and a copy of your nulla osta. Some jobs may also require proof of your qualifications or work experience.

Steps to Get an Italy Work Visa

First, your employer prepares your application on the Interior Ministry’s ALI portal, which is open from 23 October to 7 December 2026 for the 2027 quota. Next, the employer submits it on the click day for your type of work, starting on 12 January 2027 for seasonal farm work. Once the nulla osta is approved, you apply for your entry visa at the Italian embassy or consulate in your country. Within eight days of arriving in Italy, you and your employer sign a residence contract so your residence permit can be issued.

Getting Residence in Italy

Your first residence permit for work lasts up to nine months for seasonal work, one year for a fixed-term contract, or two years for a permanent contract. You can renew it as long as you keep working legally. After five years with a valid permit, you can apply for a long-term EU residence permit. You need an income at least equal to Italy’s social allowance and Italian at A2 level, and the permit card is valid for 10 years.

Check if you qualify for an Italy work visa →