Italy Opens 43,300 Work Permits for 2026

Italy has officially activated 43,300 non-seasonal work permits for 2026 under the first year of its new three-year immigration plan, known as the Decreto Flussi 2026–2028.

The measure was introduced through Director’s Note No. 531 by the Italian Labour Ministry and published in February 2026. It forms part of Italy’s broader strategy to address labour shortages in key sectors.

What Is Decreto Flussi?

The Decreto Flussi is Italy’s annual quota system that regulates how many non-EU workers can legally enter the country for employment.

It is issued under the authority of the Italian government and managed in coordination with the Italian Ministry of Labour and Social Policies.

The 2026–2028 decree outlines multi-year entry quotas to provide better planning for employers and foreign workers.

How Many Work Permits Are Available in 2026?

For 2026, Italy has allocated:

• 43,300 non-seasonal work permits
• 25,000 reserved for nationals of 40 designated “partner” countries
• 18,000 conditional on new bilateral migration agreements
• 300 reserved for stateless persons and UN-recognised refugees

Partner countries include nations such as India, Morocco, and Philippines.

Which Sectors Are Covered?

The non-seasonal permits apply to salaried employment in sectors facing worker shortages, including:

• Manufacturing
• Logistics and transport
• Construction
• Hospitality
• Domestic work

Construction demand is expected to rise significantly due to infrastructure projects linked to major international events and economic recovery programs.

How Does the Application Process Work?

The process begins with the Italian employer.

Step 1: Nulla Osta Application

Employers must submit a nulla osta (work authorization request) through the immigration portal managed by the local prefecture.

Step 2: Entry Visa Application

Once the nulla osta is approved:

• The foreign worker has six months to apply for an entry visa at the relevant Italian consulate.

Step 3: Residence Permit

After arrival in Italy:

• The worker must apply for a residence permit within eight days.

Immigration procedures are coordinated through the Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione, which the government plans to fully digitalise by Q3 2026.

How Are Quotas Distributed?

Work permits are allocated province by province based on historical demand.

If quotas remain unused after 50 days:

• They are redistributed nationally.

Processing times currently vary between two to six months, depending on the prefecture.

Compliance Rules for Employers

Employers must meet strict conditions, including:

• Compliance with wage standards
• Proper staff ratios
• Valid labour contracts
• Proof of accommodation (where required)

Audits have intensified since 2025. Penalties for fraudulent or non-compliant applications can reach €50,000.

Companies are advised to prepare documentation carefully and submit early applications to avoid project delays.

Why This Matters for Foreign Workers

For non-EU nationals seeking legal employment in Italy, the 2026 quota presents a major opportunity, especially in labour-short sectors.

However:

• Applications are competitive
• Documentation must be complete
• Deadlines are strict

Early coordination with employers is essential.

Key Takeaways

• Italy has opened 43,300 non-seasonal work permits for 2026.
• 25,000 permits are reserved for nationals of 40 partner countries.
• Key sectors include construction, logistics, manufacturing and hospitality.
• Employers must apply first through the nulla osta system.
• Strict compliance rules and audits apply.

The Decreto Flussi 2026–2028 framework aims to balance labour market needs with structured migration control, offering legal pathways for foreign workers while tightening employer oversight.