Italy continues to be one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for foreign professionals, skilled workers, and seasonal employees, and with the newly approved Decreto Flussi 2026–2028, the Italian government has created one of the largest and most structured legal migration programs in recent years, offering nearly 500,000 Italy Work Visa opportunities for non-EU citizens across multiple sectors.
This detailed guide explains how the Italian Work Visa works under Decreto Flussi, who can apply, how the application process works step by step, and how you can prepare effectively to increase your chances of success.
What Is Decreto Flussi?
Decreto Flussi is an official government decree issued by Italy that regulates how many non-EU citizens are allowed to enter Italy each year for employment purposes, ensuring that labor migration aligns with national workforce needs while discouraging irregular immigration.
The Decreto Flussi 2026–2028 introduces a three-year immigration plan authorizing approximately 497,550 Italy Work Visas, divided annually among:
- Seasonal workers (mainly agriculture and tourism)
- Non-seasonal employed workers (subordinate employment)
- Self-employed professionals
By planning quotas over three years, Italy provides greater predictability for employers and applicants while responding to labor shortages across nearly all major economic sectors.
Italy Work Visa Quotas Under Decreto Flussi (2026–2028)
The table below shows the official Italy Work Visa quotas approved for each year under the new decree:
| Year | Total Work Visas | Seasonal Work Visas | Non-Seasonal Work Visas* |
| 2026 | 164,850 | 88,000 | 76,850 |
| 2027 | 165,850 | 89,000 | 76,850 |
| 2028 | 166,850 | 90,000 | 76,850 |
This means, across the three-year period, approximately 267,000 Italian Work Visas are reserved for seasonal employment, while over 230,000 visas are allocated to non-seasonal jobs and self-employment.
Economic Sectors Covered by the Italy Work Visa Program
Unlike earlier decrees that focused mainly on agriculture and tourism, the 2026–2028 framework significantly expands the sectors eligible for Italy Work Visa sponsorship, including:
- Agriculture, forestry, and fishing
- Manufacturing and industrial production
- Construction and infrastructure
- Transportation and logistics
- Trade and wholesale services
- Hospitality, hotels, and restaurants
- Tourism services
- Business support and administrative services
- Personal care services
- Healthcare and social assistance
- Education and training
- IT, technical, and professional services
This broad inclusion allows employers across the Italian economy to legally sponsor non-EU workers, making the Italian Work Visa more accessible than ever before.
Step-by-Step Italy Work Visa Application Process Under Decreto Flussi
Step 1: Prepare Your CV and Cover Letter for Italy
Before starting the Italy Work Visa process, applicants should prepare a professional CV and cover letter tailored to the Italian or European job market.
Practical tips:
- Use a clear, concise EU-style CV format
- Highlight relevant experience and certifications
- Avoid unnecessary personal details
- Write a customized cover letter explaining why you are suitable for the role and motivated to work in Italy
Step 2: Find an Italian Employer or Job Offer Online
An Italian work visa cannot be obtained without a legitimate job offer from an Italian employer.
Recommended methods to find work:
- Italian and European job portals
- Industry-specific recruitment websites
- Direct applications to Italian companies
- Professional networking platforms
- Licensed recruitment agencies (where applicable)
Important: Legal firms and consultants assist with paperwork only; they cannot provide job placements or employers.
Step 3: Obtain SPID (Italian Digital Identity)
To access the official application portal, either the employer or the applicant (depending on visa type) must hold a SPID (Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale) or Electronic Identity Card (CIE).
Employers without SPID may apply through:
- Authorized trade associations
- Certified labor consultants
- Professional intermediaries
Step 4: Portal Registration and Pre-Filling the Application
Applications are submitted via the Ministero dell’Interno online portal (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione).
For the 2026 Italy Work Visa quota, the pre-compilation phase opened on 23 October 2025, allowing employers to enter job and worker details in advance.
Application models include:
- Seasonal agriculture and tourism forms
- Non-seasonal employment form
- Domestic caregiving form
All pre-filled applications remain saved as “Da inviare” (to be sent) until Click Day.
Step 5: Attach Required Documents
Supporting documents must be uploaded during pre-filling, including:
- Proof of suitable accommodation in Italy
- Assurance certificate confirming employer compliance
- Digitally signed documentation
Only applications verified as complete receive an activation code, which is mandatory for submission on Click Day.
Step 6: Modification Period
From 9 to 13 December 2025, applicants may correct or update pre-filled applications. No new applications can be created during this window.
Step 7: Click Day – Submit the Italy Work Visa Application
Click Day is when quota-limited applications are officially submitted.
2026 Click Day schedule:
- 12 January 2026 – Seasonal agriculture
- 9 February 2026 – Seasonal tourism
- 16 February 2026 – Non-seasonal employment
- 18 February 2026 – Domestic care sector
Applications open at 9:00 AM (Rome time) and are processed in order until quotas are filled.
Step 8: Processing and Nulla Osta Issuance
Under new rules, authorities must issue the nulla osta (work authorization) within 30 days, significantly reducing waiting times. Employers must confirm the job offer within 7 days after approval.
Step 9: Visa Issuance and Entry to Italy
Once authorized, the Italian consulate issues the Italian Work Visa. Workers now have up to 12 months to complete any required training and obtain the visa. After arrival in Italy, the worker must:
- Sign the Contract of Stay
- Apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days
Unused authorizations automatically expire after 6 months to prevent quota waste.
Final Tips to Increase Your Italy Work Visa Success
- Start job searching months before Click Day
- Ensure documents are complete and professionally prepared
- Coordinate closely with your employer
- Avoid unofficial agents or job-offer scams
- Follow deadlines strictly, as quotas fill very quickly