Due to a major change in immigration policy, Italy is now more appealing to workers from other countries. To support its need for more workers and give better protection to migrants, Italy lets seasonal migrants legally start employment before their permits are done.
The new policy is meant to stop abuse and ensure seasonal laborers are paid fairly.
What’s New for Seasonal Workers?
If these conditions are met, seasonal migrants are allowed to start working in Italy legally:
Application Proof: The applicant has to have asked to change their seasonal residence permit into a standard work permit.
Employer’s Obligation: Employers must put in the Unilav employment form using digital tools.
Social Security Registration: The employer has to notify INPS, Italy’s social security service, for any domestic work taken on.
The rules ensure that workers waiting for the full permit are covered by Italy’s job security and formal employment.
Why this matters
Earlier, migrants could not start working before getting full approval on their permits, causing some to join the informal economy and face exploitation.
Now, with this legal bridge, workers:
- Can start earning immediately
- Are recognized under employment laws
- Gain access to benefits such as healthcare and insurance
Increased Visa Quotas for 2025
Italy is increasing its work visa quotas as part of its 3-year migration plan:
| Year | Work Visas Issued |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 136,000 |
| 2024 | 151,000 |
| 2025 | 165,000 |
Seasonal workers will have access to 93,550 visas in 2025 for farming and tourism jobs.
10,000 visas will be available for care workers from abroad, as the need for this work has grown with an aging Italy.
The changes will help other important sectors, including construction and healthcare.
Why this is a game-changer
The new policy supports both the workers and the country’s needs. It gives workers a legal way to work and earn money, and it helps Italy deal with missing workers, all with fewer administrative difficulties. It is part of Italy’s larger work to make immigration easier while ensuring migrant workers are treated fairly.
This update makes it much easier and safer for people planning to work in Italy in 2025 to do so legally.
