Work visa to Italy
TYPES OF ITALIAN WORK VISA
As a member of the European Union (EU), Italy allows citizens from other EU member states to work without a special visa or permit. Citizens of countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) are also free to work in Italy. Any employees who are not EU or EEA citizens will need an Italy work visa called a Nulla Osta.
In Italy, a work visa falls under the category of a long-stay visa, which may also be referred to as a National or D-Visa. It’s important to note that an Italy work visa simply allows employees to enter the country. To stay in Italy, they’ll need to obtain a residence permit upon arrival.
EU and EEA Citizens:
Citizens of EU member states and EEA countries can work in Italy without a special visa or permit.
Non-EU/EEA Citizens:
Non-EU/EEA citizens need an Italy work visa known as “Nulla Osta” for employment.
The work visa is a long-stay visa (National or D-Visa).
REQUIREMENTS FOR AN ITALY WORK PERMIT
Citizens of nations outside of the EU and EEA will need to have a job in Italy before applying for a work visa. They’ll also need a work permit, which the employer must apply for using supporting documents from the employee.Along with the application for a work visa in Italy, your employees will need the following supporting documents:- A copy of a signed employment contract
- The original Nulla Osta and an additional copy
- A passport with a minimum of 2 blank pages that’s valid for at least 3 months beyond the visa’s duration
- Passport pictures
- A completed long-stay visa application form
- Proof of sufficient financial means, accommodation in Italy, and paid visa fee
- Diplomas and other qualifying certificates
ITALY WORK PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS
The process of getting a Nulla Osta begins when an employee is offered a job in Italy. These are the necessary steps to obtain the work visa:- The employer applies for a work permit at the immigration office in their respective Italian province.
- Once the work permit is granted, the employer will send it to the employee and notify the Italian embassy or consulate where the employee will apply for a work visa.
- The employee will download and complete the Italy visa application form, collect all necessary documents, and submit the application in person at the Italian embassy or consulate.
- If the Italian authorities approve the application, the employee will have 6 months to pick up the visa and enter Italy.
- Within 8 days of entering Italy, the employee must apply for an additional permit to stay, referred to as a permesso di soggiorno, or residence permit, and the application can be obtained at a local post office in Italy.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Citizens of EU member states and EEA countries can work in Italy without a special visa or permit.
Non-EU/EEA citizens need an Italy work visa known as "Nulla Osta" for employment. This falls under the category of a long-stay visa (National or D-Visa).
Non-EU/EEA citizens need a job in Italy before applying for a work visa. The employer must apply for a work permit on behalf of the employee and provide supporting documents, including a signed employment contract, Nulla Osta, passport, passport pictures, completed visa application form, proof of financial means, accommodation, and paid visa fee. Diplomas and other qualifying certificates are also required.
The employer applies for a work permit at the immigration office. Once granted, the employer sends it to the employee, who then applies for a work visa at the Italian embassy or consulate.
The employee must download and complete the visa application form, submit necessary documents, and, upon approval, enter Italy within 6 months. Within 8 days of entry, the employee must apply for a residence permit.
An Italy work visa can be valid for up to 2 years, depending on the employment contract. It can be renewed for up to 5 years.
Yes, applications are accepted during specific months every 1 to 2 years. The timeframe may vary based on immigration conditions and the job market in Italy.
Yes, there is a set quota for work visas issued by the Italian government during specific application windows. Highly skilled employees may be exempt from the quota but still need to follow the standard application process.
As of Jan. 30, 2023, Italy increased the work permit quota from 69,700 to 82,705 for non-EU and non-EEA nationals.