Italy has made some big changes to its immigration system. If you’re planning to move to Italy for work study or other reasons here’s a simple breakdown of the latest updates.
New Work Visa Plan – Flow Decree 2026–2028
Italy recently approved a three year plan for work visas. On July 4 2025 the government passed the new Flow Decree which allows nearly 500000 non EU workers over the next three years.
- 2026 starts with 164850 spots
- Numbers will increase in 2027 and 2028
Why so many visas? Italy faces labor shortages in farming caregiving and tourism because of its aging population.
For 2025 there are already 181450 work permits available. These include:
- Seasonal jobs like fruit picking
- Non seasonal roles like hotels home care and tourism
- Self employment and business opportunities
But remember you can only apply during “click days” short online windows where forms open. Missing the deadline means missing your chance.
Read More: Canada Immigration Refusal Letters Update 2025 – What Changed
How the Application Works
- Employers must first check if Italian or EU workers can fill the job
- If not they apply for a nulla osta (work permit) on your behalf
- Thanks to new digital rules Decree 145/2024 everything is online and faster
- Employers must confirm hires within 7 days or the permit is canceled
New Rules for Visas
- Biometrics: Since January 11 2025 long stay visa applicants must provide fingerprints at Italian consulates
- Permit Conversions: Some conversions like seasonal to long term no longer need quotas
- Extra Checks: Workers from Bangladesh Pakistan and Sri Lanka face police reviews before approval
Big EU Court Ruling – Asylum Processing
On August 1 2025 the EU Court of Justice blocked Italy’s plan to process asylum seekers in Albania. The court ruled that:
- Italy’s “safe country” list was not valid for everyone
- Asylum seekers must have fair transparent reviews
This decision affects Italy’s migration deal with Albania and may force changes in how asylum claims are handled.
Boat Arrivals and Tragedies
Sadly the dangers of crossing the Mediterranean continue.
- On August 13 2025 at least 26 migrants died near Lampedusa after a shipwreck
- So far in 2025 675 people have died on this route
Italy has toughened laws:
- Longer jail sentences for smugglers
- Detention of rescue ships 25 seized in 2025
- Fines for planes monitoring rescues
Rights groups like Human Rights Watch warn these measures harm humanitarian efforts.
Investor & Golden Visa Updates
Italy’s Investor Visa Program is under EU review. Changes may come soon. Currently you can qualify by:
- Investing €500000 in a business creating at least 3 jobs
- Or investing more in startups
If you’re interested apply before possible changes.
ETIAS Travel Authorization
From late 2026 travelers from countries like the US Canada and Australia will need an ETIAS similar to the US ESTA.
- Apply online
- Pay a small fee
- Valid for 3 years
Without ETIAS you can’t enter Italy or other Schengen countries.
Family Reunification & Worker Protection
- Family reunification is now faster sometimes within 30 days
- New laws protect foreign workers from exploitation. If you face abuse at work you can report it and still keep your permit
Human Rights & Social Issues
Italy’s immigration policies face criticism:
- Racism & police profiling concerns
- Roma communities facing housing discrimination
- LGBT rights: Italy ranks 36th in Europe for protections
Student Visas
Italy also welcomes students.
- You need an acceptance letter from a school or university
- Apply for a study permit which can later be converted to a work permit
If you’re from the EU no visa is needed just register after 3 months.
Skilled Work & the EU Blue Card
Italy is especially looking for skilled workers in:
- Tech
- Healthcare
- Green energy
The EU Blue Card allows highly skilled workers to live and work in Italy and later move around the EU.
Conclusion
Italy’s immigration rules in 2025 are a mix of opportunities and restrictions. The Flow Decree offers new work permits while digital tools make applications easier. At the same time asylum policies border controls and human rights debates continue to shape the system.
If you plan to move to Italy:
- Stay updated through the Italian Ministry of Interior
- Prepare documents early
- Apply quickly during “click days”
Italy offers culture history and work opportunities but you need to plan carefully to succeed.
