The Italian government has recently introduced changes in the work visa application for 2025 in order to help streamline the procedure and attract a larger number of non-EU workers. With yearly permits for around 181,450 foreign workers (seasonal, self-employed), the country clearly is opening more doors for foreign talent.
Updated Application Process
A newer application process decreases the bureaucracy of applications and speeds up processing time through VFS Global’s newly launched webform portal introduced from April 3, 2025.
The applicant’s Italian employer must first ask for a “Nulla Osta” at the immigration office. Once it has been granted, the prospective employee applies for a work visa at the Italian consulate or embassy in his/her country of residence. Once in Italy, it’s imperative to apply for a residence permit within eight days to be lawfully able to stay and work in the country.
Key Requirements
If you qualify for a work visa, you will need to fulfill the criteria provided for below:
- A valid job offer or employment contract by an Italian employer.
- Proof of proven accommodation in Italy.
- No criminal background.
- Not surpassing the annual quota for foreign workers.
- To have adequate health insurance coverage.
- Evidence of financial stability to support self throughout the stay.
Documentation
the applicant is expected to present the original passport, a completed visa application form, two passport-sized photographs from the latest application, the applicant is arranged from Italy, an employment contract, and then a police clearance certificate.
Residence Permit Application
Once entered into Italy, applicants within their first eight working days apply for permits of stay, also known as Permesso di Soggiorno. This application will require enrollment at an Italian post office, collecting the application packet, attending scheduled appointments at the Police Headquarters for biometric fingerprinting and processing of the documents, and contemplating the review of their acceptance for the visa permits.