Find Out How to Get a Job and Work in Venice

Employment in Venice

Local Economy

Venice’s economy has seen vast changes in the past. In the Middle Ages, it was a major center for trade and the navy, becoming an extremely wealthy European city. In the 17th century, countries such as a Portugal overtook it and over the next 100 years it became a major exporter for agriculture and industry.

Today, Venice’s economy is mainly based on tourism for the city itself, including attractions and souvenirs such as masks, leather, and glass. Murano glass production and lace production are both particularly important for the local economy in Venice. Shipbuilding facilities are also important in the nearby towns of Mestre and Marghera.

Job Hunting in Venice

European Citizens are more likely to get a job in Venice as, in order to get a work permit for expats, a company has to demonstrate that an EU citizen is not available to do the job. For example, au pair positions are reserved for EU citizens by law. However, there are still jobs available for non-EU expatriates looking to work in Venice. It is best to apply beforehand online, with sites such as Glassdoor, Cercolavoro, or Lavoroa (the latter two websites are mostly in Italian).

Employers will look for applicants who have skills that can be advantageous to the local industries, especially tourism. Those who have experience in English teaching and IT will be at an advantage, too. Competition for work in Venice is tough and a good knowledge of Italian is essential.

Income Taxation in Venice

The tax rate across Italy ranges from 23% to 43%. For those earning up to 15,000 EUR a year it is 23% and anything in excess of 75,000 EUR will be taxed at 43%. The rates in-between are progressive.

Controlled by central and regional governments, taxes are collected by the Italian Agency of Revenue. Expats will pay income tax if they are considered to be living in Italy and have their central interests in the country. They must also be registered at the Office of Records of the Resident Population. Other Italian taxes include Corporation Tax, Value Added Tax, and Social Security Contributions, although these are at fixed rates.