Italy to Issue 500,000 Work Permits for Foreign Nationals Between 2026 and 2028

By Vaidant July 4, 2025
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In a significant move to address labour shortages and demographic decline, Italy has announced plans to issue approximately 500,000 new work permits for non-EU nationals between 2026 and 2028. The measure, confirmed by the government, is part of a broader initiative to expand legal immigration channels and support the country’s ageing workforce.

According to a government statement cited by Reuters, 164,850 foreign workers will be allowed entry in 2026, with a total of 497,550 new entries expected by the end of 2028. These quotas were determined after evaluating business demands and past application data, ensuring that the programme is “realistic” and aligned with industry needs.

To legally work in Italy, foreign nationals must obtain both a work visa and an employment authorisation prior to entering the country. Once in Italy, they are required to apply for a residence permit within eight days. Visa fees range from €116, while residence permits cost between €40 and €100, depending on the duration and category.

This initiative is the third of its kind under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, whose administration has balanced strict measures on illegal immigration with expanded opportunities for legal migration. Since 2023, her government has approved over 450,000 work visas, while also enforcing faster deportations and tighter controls on Mediterranean rescue operations.

With Italy’s population declining to 58.93 million in 2024 and births consistently falling short of deaths, experts warn that urgent demographic measures are needed. A report by Osservatorio Conti Pubblici suggests that at least 10 million migrants will be needed by 2050 to maintain population levels.

Additionally, Italy has revised its citizenship laws, restricting eligibility to children and grandchildren of Italian nationals, effectively limiting claims through distant ancestry. It also continues to run its Golden Visa programme, offering residency for investments starting at €250,000.

This large-scale permit plan underscores Italy’s growing dependence on foreign labour, while reshaping the country’s long-term immigration and economic strategy.

Source: FINANCIAL EXPRESS

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