Rome, Italy – In a significant move to address labor shortages and improve the rights of migrant workers, Italian authorities have issued a new directive that facilitates the legal employment of seasonal workers during the transition period of their residence permits.
Under the updated regulations, seasonal migrant workers will now be permitted to continue working legally in Italy while awaiting the conversion of their seasonal residence permits to regular work permits. This initiative, reported by News and confirmed by local media, is part of a broader strategy aimed at tackling irregular employment and ensuring the protection of workers' rights.
Key Provisions of the New Directive
The directive introduces critical changes designed to prevent income loss and exploitation among seasonal workers during the permit transition process. Among the most notable provisions:
1.Migrants will be allowed to work while waiting for the approval of their residence permit conversion.
2.Workers may begin employment even before formal approval is granted, provided certain criteria are met.
3.To be eligible for early employment under the new rules, the following conditions must be satisfied:
4.The migrant must present a receipt confirming the submission of the application to convert their seasonal permit to a non-seasonal work permit.
5.The Unilav form must be submitted electronically, indicating formal employment.
6.For domestic workers, the employment relationship must be registered with Italy’s national social security institute (INPS).
This regulatory update addresses a longstanding gap in Italy’s immigration and labor framework, where seasonal workers often faced long waiting periods during which they were unable to work legally—leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and financial instability.
Visa Expansion Reflects Rising Demand for Foreign Labor
Italy is not only reforming its work permit policies but also significantly expanding its foreign labor intake. In 2025, the country will issue 165,000 work visas, up from 151,000 in 2024 and 136,000 in 2023, reflecting the urgent need to bolster its workforce.
Of the total quota, 93,550 visas are allocated specifically for seasonal workers, up from the 89,050 limit set for 2024. The rise is part of a broader three-year labor strategy developed by the Italian government to match visa allocations with sectors experiencing critical labor shortages.
Focus on Key Sectors: Construction and Care Work
The directive also prioritizes sectors facing acute shortages, such as construction and healthcare. In 2025, 10,000 work visas will be designated for foreign care workers alone, underscoring Italy’s growing reliance on migrant labor to support its aging population and essential services.
A Strategic Response to Labor and Migration Challenges
The new directive is a proactive step toward harmonizing immigration management with labor market demands. By allowing migrants to begin work during the permit conversion process and expanding visa allocations, Italy aims to reduce informal employment, support economic productivity, and improve protections for vulnerable migrant populations.
As Italy continues to refine its immigration policies, these measures are expected to bring more transparency, efficiency, and humanity to the treatment of foreign workers—ensuring that both the national economy and the individuals who support it can thrive.
