A Guide to Visa Types and Work Permits in Italy

Jump right in:

• Work permits & employment-based visas
• How to apply for a work visa in Italy
• Blue Card: Europe’s “Green Card” for highly skilled workers
• Family Visa: How to bring your family with you to Italy
• How to obtain a business visa for Italy
• Self employment visas
• Residency permits temporary & permanent

Work permits and employment-based visas

How do you obtain a work permit and employment visa in Italy? If you're a citizen of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland, you won't need a visa to live and work in Italy. You are free to cross the border with only your valid national identity document or passport. Citizens of non-EU countries, however, have to apply for a work visa and permit if they want to work and live in Italy. Read on to know how you can start your life and career in Italian territory.

Work visa requirements in Italy

As a non-EU citizen, to work and live in Italy, you will need:

• visa and work permit before you enter Italy
• residence permit within eight days of entering Italy

There are various work permit visa types in Italy:

• salaried employment
• self-employment
• digital nomad
• seasonal work (related to agriculture or tourism)
• sports activities
• artistic work
• working holiday
• scientific research

Bear in mind that you cannot work in Italy if you have a visa for medical care, tourism, religion, or judicial reasons.

What is the decreto flussi?

The Decreto Flussi (Flows Decree) is the Italian government’s annual quota system that determines how many non-EU workers are allowed to enter Italy for various types of employment, including seasonal, non-seasonal, and self-employment. Employers must first secure a nulla osta (work permit clearance) under this quota before applying for a work visa.

This decree is published every year and defines the number of permits available, eligible job categories, and the official application window. However, certain categories of workers may be exempt from the quota system. Since quotas change annually, it’s best to check the latest details directly from Italian government sources or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Italian work permit process

As an applicant, you don’t apply for the work permit directly your Italian employer does this on your behalf. However, you will need to provide your employer with some information so they can process your work permit application.

Your employer will need:

• copy of your passport or ID document
• proof of your accommodation in Italy
• the residence contract* in Italian
• proof that you have sufficient means to return home
• all information concerning your future employment status

Besides a work contract, foreign workers sign a residence contract, contratto di soggiorno, with their Italian employer. In this contract, the employer guarantees that the worker has suitable accommodation available, and commits to paying for any travel expenses in case the worker is expelled from Italy. This document does not replace the work contract, but it is necessary for the issuing of the work permit. Once your work permit is approved, you can apply for a visa.

How to apply for a work visa in Italy

Generally, you can only apply for a work visa if you are outside of Italian borders. If you're in Italy on a visitor’s visa, you'll have to leave the country and apply at the Italian embassy of your country of residence. Your visa application has to be done no later than three months before the date you intend to move to Italy. You may need to schedule an appointment with your local embassy, so it's a good idea to call in advance. When you apply at your local embassy, you'll need to present the following documents:

• Italian visa application form­
• recent passport-sized photo
• valid passport or ID­—the expiration date must be at least three months longer than that of the visa
• Nulla osta from the SUI (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione), the Italian immigration office.

Visa requirements may vary by country of application. Always check with the Italian embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date list of required documents and procedures.

What is the waiting period for the visa?

After you submit your application processing times may take up to a few months, depending on the embassy or consulate and individual circumstances. Once it is approved, your local consulate or diplomatic mission will notify you then you have six months to collect your visa and enter Italy. Your work visa has the duration of your contract, which cannot be shorter than one year. If you have an unlimited contract, your work permit has a maximum duration of two years. The length of your residence permit will also correspond to the length of your contract.

How much does an Italian work visa cost?

A work visa in Italy costs 116 EUR (140 USD). Unless otherwise stated, this fee is paid in  the euros as that is the local currency.

Blue Card: Europe’s “Green Card” for highly skilled workers

If you're a highly skilled worker, you can apply for a European Blue Card. This work visa allows highly skilled non-EU workers to live and work in any EU country with the exception of Denmark and Ireland.

To qualify, you must meet all the following requirements:

Professional qualifications (at least one of them):

1. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution, representing at least three years of study
2. Five years of relevant professional experience at a level comparable to a graduate degree, must be supported by documentation
3. For ICT managers or specialists only: At least three years of relevant professional experience obtained within the seven years prior to your application
4. A recognized professional qualification for regulated professions (e.g., engineer, architect), under Italy's Legislative Decree No. 206/2007
5. A valid work contract or binding job offer in a highly qualified role lasting at least six months
6. Your salary must meet or exceed Italian collective labor agreement levels and at least match the country's average gross annual pay

The process to apply for this type of visa is similar to that of regular workers. This visa, however, falls outside the Italian quota system.  Find more information about the EU Blue Card to work in Italy.

Family visas: How to bring your family with you to Italy?

If you’re a foreign citizen legally residing in Italy with a valid residence permit of at least one year (such as for work, study, family, asylum, or protection), you may be eligible to apply for family reunification. This allows certain family members to join you in Italy.

To start the process, you must apply for an authorization permit (Nulla Osta). Once approved, your family member can apply for an entry visa at the Italian embassy in their home country.

You can apply to bring the following family members:

• your spouse or partner (not legally separated and over 18)
• children under 18 (including adopted or under guardianship)
• dependent adult children with total disability
• dependent parents with no other support, or over 65 with serious health conditions

To qualify, you must demonstrate:

• adequate housing that meets health and safety standards
• sufficient income (at least the annual amount of the Italian social allowance, increased per additional family member)
• health insurance for parents over 65 (or registration with the national health service)

How to obtain a business visa for Italy

If you want to relocate to Italy for business purposes, there are several visa pathways for non-EU nationals:

Investor visa (Golden visa): It grants a two-year residence permit, which can be extended for an additional three years, and may lead to permanent residency or citizenship if long-term stay requirements are met.

To be eligible applicants:

• must invest in specific areas such as an Italian startup, a local company, government bonds, or a philanthropic initiative
• with minimum investments ranging from 250,000 EUR (approx. 290,000 USD) to 2 million EUR (approx. 2.33 million USD) depending on the option chosen
• must demonstrate the legal origin of their funds
• hold valid health insurance
• have suitable accommodation in Italy

Before applying for the visa, they must obtain a Nulla Osta, or certificate of no impediment, confirming the investment plan has been approved. The program allows investors and their families to live, work, or study in Italy, without requiring full-time residence, and offers visa-free access to the Schengen Area.

Startup visa: It's an option for non-EU citizens who want to launch an innovative, tech-driven business in Italy.

To qualify the startup:

• must be based in Italy,
• generate less than 5 million EUR (approx. 5.8 million USD) annually,
• focus primarily on technological innovation,
• must meet certain conditions

Applicants:

• must prove they have sufficient financial resources
• a solid business plan
• no criminal record

The process is handled entirely online and in English. Once approved, you apply for the visa at your local consulate and then request a residence permit upon arrival in Italy. If you already live in Italy on another permit, you may be able to convert it into a startup visa without leaving the country. This route offers a straightforward way for entrepreneurs to build a business and life in Italy.

Self-employment visa: Another route for entrepreneurs and independent professionals is the self-employment visa, which allows non-EU citizens to live in Italy while running their own business or offering freelance services. Unlike startup visa, this option is not limited to innovative or tech-based businesses. It’s available to a wide range of professionals, including consultants, freelancers, artisans, and small business owners. You can find a detailed breakdown of this visa and its requirements in the next section.

Self-employment visa

This visa allows non-EU nationals to live and work independently in Italy, whether as freelancers, entrepreneurs, or professionals running their own business. Unlike standard work visas, this one is for people who are not employed by a company but instead carry out self-managed activities.

Who can apply?

It’s open to non-EU citizens who intend to live and work in Italy as independent professionals or business owners. To be eligible, applicants must meet the annual quota set by the Italian government through the Decreto Flussi and demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves.

Applicants generally fall into one of the following categories:

• Entrepreneurs planning to invest at least 500,000 EUR (540,000 USD) of their own funds in a project that benefits the Italian economy and creates a minimum of three new jobs.
• Freelancers working in professions that are nationally recognized in Italy.
• Executives or board members holding roles of administration or control within companies.
• Artists or performers with a well-established reputation or significant professional qualifications, invited by Italian public or private institutions.
• Innovative startup founders engaged in self-employed roles within a qualifying startup.

What are the requirements for self-employment visa?

To qualify for a self-employment visa in Italy, non-EU citizens must meet several legal and financial conditions before entering the country and beginning their activity. These include both general and profession-specific requirements.

Key requirements include:

• You must first obtain a nulla osta, followed by a visa
• Within 8 days of arriving in Italy, you must apply for a residence permit for self-employment

To be authorized to work independently, you must demonstrate that:

• You have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your self-employed activity in Italy;
• You meet legal or professional requirements to carry out the specific type of work (e.g. registrations or licenses);
• If applicable, you are registered with the relevant professional body or the Chamber of Commerce
• You have an accommodation in Italy

You hold a certificate from the competent Italian authority (issued no more than 3 months earlier) confirming there are no legal obstacles to issuing the necessary authorizations or licenses.

How to apply for a self-employment visa

The application for a self-employment visa to Italy begins with obtaining a nulla osta, issued by the competent Italian authority, usually the Chamber of Commerce or a professional body depending on your profession. This step must be completed in Italy, so most applicants appoint a legal proxy or consultant to handle it on their behalf.

Once the nulla osta is granted, you must apply for your visa at the Italian consulate or embassy in your home country within three months. The visa must then be used to enter Italy within 180 days from the date of issue. After arriving in Italy, you must apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days, which you can do at a local post office and then finalize with the local police (Questura). It is usually valid for one to two years, depending on your activity, and is renewable.

What are the required documents?

When applying for the visa at the consulate, you’ll need:

• valid passport (expiring at least 3 months after the visa)
• completed visa application form
• two recent passport-sized photos
• Nulla Osta (work authorization)
• proof of suitable accommodation in Italy
• certificate of no impediment (from the Chamber of Commerce or a professional ody)
• proof of sufficient financial resources/income
• health insurance covering your stay in Italy
• criminal background check (from your country of residence)

Additional documentation may be required depending on your specific profession or type of self-employment.

Residency permits temporary & permanent

Before you can settle permanently in Italy, you’ll first need to go through a temporary residency phase. When you arrive with a visa, you’re required to apply for a residence permit within 8 days. This makes your stay legal and allows you to live, work, or study in Italy depending on your visa type.

This initial permit is temporary, usually lasting between one and two years. However, after 5 years of continuous legal residence, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency, which offers more stability and broader rights.

Holders of a work and residence permit have the following rights:

• coverage by the Italian Healthcare System, the SSN (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale);
• access to education, on equal grounds as Italian citizens
• request family reunification, if their residence permit has a minimum duration of one year
• carry out self-employment activities to some extent, provided they have the necessary authorizations and meet all the requirements
• access to patronage services

How to apply for an Italian temporary residence permit

Citizens of the European Union who wish to stay longer than three months don’t need to apply for a residence permit. Instead, they must register at the Anagrafe (register office) of the Comune (town council) where they live. There, they will be given a receipt proving their registration.

Non-EU citizens must apply for a residence permit within 8 days of arriving in Italy. The process of application:

1. Pick up the yellow kit (kit giallo) from a post office with a Sportello Amico sign. This kit contains the forms and instructions for your application.
2. Fill it out, attach the required documents and return it to the post office.
3. You'll receive a receipt (ricevuta) and an appointment at the questura (police quarter) for fingerprinting and final steps. The receipt you get after submitting the kit acts a temporary residence permit your residence permit is issued, so you should keep it safe.

Applications for a residence permit for work or family reasons must be made with the SUI (Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione).

What is the residence permit kit (kit giallo)?

The Yellow Kit (Kit Giallo) is a postal application packet used by non-EU citizens to apply for or renew a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) in Italy. It’s available at post offices marked with the Sportello Amico sign. Inside the kit, you’ll find:

• Modulo 1, which is the main application form required for all applicants.
• Modulo 2, which is used in specific cases like applications for the long-term residence permit.
• Foglio Note for additional information
• Tabelle with tables that may be needed depending on your situation
• a Bollettino, which is a payment slip used to cover the residence permit processing fee.

Once the forms are completed, the kit is submitted to the post office. You can pay the fee directly using the Bollettino, and the amount varies based on the type and duration of the permit requested.

How long is a residence permit valid and when to renew it?

The duration of your Italian residence permit depends on the type of visa you used to enter the country and the reason for your stay. According to Italian law, the duration shouldn’t exceed the following limits:

• 9 months for seasonal work contracts
• 1 year for fixed-term employment contracts
• 2 years for open-ended employment contracts
• 2 years for self-employment
• 2 years for family reunification

If you wish to stay in Italy beyond your permit’s expiration date, you must apply for renewal in advance. Renewal requests are made at the questura (police headquarter) in the province where you reside. The advance application windows are:

• 90 days before expiry, for 2-year permits
• 60 days before expiry, for 1-year permits
• 30 days before expiry, for all other cases

Your renewal must be submitted in time to avoid falling out of status. The length of the renewed permit will again depend on the supporting documents you provide.

What are the fees for a residence permit?

To request a residence permit in Italy, you will need to attach a 16 EUR (18 USD) revenue stamp (marca da bollo) to your application form. You will also have to pay an additional 30 EUR (33 USD) to post the registered letter.

For residence permits valid for more than 90 days, you are also required to pay a 30,46 EUR (35,5 USD) fee for the issuance of the electronic residence permit card.

In addition to these base fees, there is a separate issuance fee depending on the duration of your permit:

• 40 EUR (46 USD) for permits valid for more than 3 months and up to 1 year
• 50 EUR (58 USD) for permits valid for more than 1 year and up to 2 years
• 100 EUR (116 USD) for long-term EU residence permits or for highly qualified workers

So, the total cost for a temporary residence permit can range between approximately 86,46 EUR (100 USD) and 196,46 EUR (230 USD), depending on the duration and type of permit you are applying for.

How to obtain permanent residency in Italy

Permanent residence in Italy, or EC Long-Term Residence Permit, can be obtained after living in Italy for five years with a valid residence permit. This permit allows you to stay in Italy indefinitely. However, the card itself is only valid as a personal identification document for 10 years, after which you would have to renew it. EU citizens have it easier when it comes to obtaining permanent residence in another EU country. In general, you will only need to live in that country for five years, after which you automatically have the right to stay permanently without the need to take out any registrations or permits. However, it is always recommended that you have documentation proving your status in the country, to help deal with the authorities.

What are the requirements for a permanent residence permit?

To apply for a permanent residence permit, you need to get your application form from the post office your application must include:

• completed application form
• valid passport and its copy
• valid residence permit (permesso di soggiorno), held for at least 5 years
• criminal record certificate
• certificate of residency and family status (residenza e stato di famiglia)
• tax return or similar document proving annual income at or above the social allowance
• if applying with family members: proof of suitable accommodation, relevant to household size
• current pay slips or documentation of employment/freelance activity
• proof of passing an Italian language test (typically A2 level) from an accredited institution

If you're applying with family members (spouse, minor children, dependent parents, or full-time students), you must also include:

• documents proving family relationships (translated into Italian, legalized, and certified by an Italian Consulate)
• evidence of sufficient income to support the entire household
• additional documentation depending on individual circumstances (e.g., educational enrollment, caregiver status)

What are the benefits of permanent residence in Italy?

Besides the rights you already have on a temporary work and residence permit in Italy, holding an EC Long-Term Residence Permit allows you to:

• enter Italy without a visa
• indefinite stay in Italy
• visa-free travel within most EU countries for up to 90 days.
• possibility to live or work in another EU country, subject to that country’s specific requirements
• eligibility for Italian citizenship after 10 years of legal residency for non-EU citizens