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How to Immigrate to Italy in 2025
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Italy, with its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and high quality of life, continues to attract people from around the world seeking new opportunities. Whether you're drawn by professional ambitions, academic pursuits, retirement plans, or a desire to reconnect with your roots, Italy offers a variety of legal pathways for immigration. As of 2025, the country has updated several of its immigration policies to better align with labor market demands, technological innovation, and EU-wide regulations. This guide outlines the main ways to immigrate to Italy, helping you navigate the most suitable route based on your personal and professional goals.
- Main Industries
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Automotive and Machinery
- Fashion and Textile Manufacturing
- Food and Beverage Production
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industry
- Furniture and Interior Design
UTC+1
301,340 km2
Euro (EUR)
Rome
Italian
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Why people immigrate to Italy?
- Italy attracts immigrants with its rich culture, relaxed lifestyle, and strategic location in Europe. Many are drawn by job opportunities, quality education, or the chance to enjoy life in a country known for its food, history, and scenic beauty. For retirees and remote workers, Italy offers affordable living and excellent healthcare, making it an appealing place to settle.
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Recent Trends in Italy’s Immigration Policy
- Italy’s immigration policy in recent years has evolved to attract skilled talent and foreign investment. Measures such as the enhanced EU Blue Card for professionals and streamlined investor visa programs reflect a shift toward economic-driven migration. At the same time, Italy remains committed to EU mobility, ensuring accessible pathways for citizens from other member states. The overall approach balances labor market demands with integration and innovation goals.
Immigration for Work
Immigration for Work
Work-based migration remains one of the most structured and in-demand pathways for relocating to Italy. In response to labor shortages and the growing demand for qualified professionals, Italy has taken steps to simplify legal access for foreign workers, particularly those with specialized expertise. Among the most prominent routes is the EU Blue Card, designed to attract highly skilled individuals from outside the European Union.
a. Skilled Workers – EU Blue Card
Introduced across the EU to promote high-skilled migration, the EU Blue Card offers non-EU nationals a legal and stable path to live and work in Italy. It is tailored for professionals with advanced qualifications and is now considered one of the most efficient ways to enter the Italian labor market.
Who It’s For?
The Blue Card is intended for third-country nationals who possess higher education qualifications and have secured a job offer in Italy that matches their skills.Requirements
Applicants must hold a recognized university degree and a valid employment contract offering a gross annual salary of at least €27,000 (as updated in 2025, subject to sector and inflation adjustments). In some cases, qualifications earned abroad may need formal recognition in Italy.Benefits
The card grants access to Italy’s labour market with the right to bring immediate family members under reunification provisions. It also serves as a stepping stone to long-term residency, with the possibility of applying for permanent status after five years within the EU (with at least two in Italy)Fees
Application fees typically range between €100 and €300, depending on the region and administrative charges. Additional costs may apply for document translation and recognition of qualifications.Processing Time
On average, the process takes 60 to 90 days from submission to approval, although this can vary depending on local immigration offices and completeness of documentation.b. Seasonal and Non-Seasonal Work Visas
Italy offers seasonal and non-seasonal work permits to meet labour demands in various sectors. These are ideal for non-EU nationals with job offers in industries facing workforce shortages.
Who It’s For:
Third-country nationals employed for either short-term seasonal jobs or longer-term roles, depending on the contract type.Targeted Sectors:
- Seasonal: agriculture and tourism.
- Non-seasonal: construction, logistics, manufacturing, and domestic services.
Decreto Flussi (Flow Decree):
Issued annually, the Decreto Flussi sets the number of non-EU workers allowed entry based on sector needs and national quotas. In 2025, quotas were expanded to address labour gaps and demographic changes.Requirements:
A valid job offer, proof of housing, and no criminal record. Employers typically handle the application process.Fees:
Costs range from €100 to €200, with possible additional fees for consular processing and residence permits.Processing Time:
Usually between 30 and 90 days, depending on application volume and local administrative capacity.c. Intra-Company Transfers
Italy facilitates the relocation of skilled professionals through intra-company transfer (ICT) permits, allowing employees of multinational corporations to move to Italian branches without the need for a local hire.
Who It’s For:
This permit is intended for managers, specialists, and trainees already employed by a company outside the EU who are being temporarily assigned to its Italian operations.Requirements:
The applicant must have been employed by the company for at least three months prior to the transfer. A formal assignment letter, evidence of professional qualifications, and proof of sufficient income are required. The Italian host entity must also confirm the transfer and provide accommodation details.Language:
While there is no official language requirement, knowledge of Italian can ease integration and workplace communication. For some roles, English may be sufficient, depending on the company and industry.Fees:
Application fees typically range from €100 to €250, with possible additional charges for visa issuance and residence permits.Processing Time:
The processing period generally ranges between 30 and 60 days, though this may vary depending on the region and the completeness of documentation.-
Family Reunification
- Italy upholds the right to family life by offering legal residents the opportunity to reunite with close relatives. The family reunification process is an essential part of the country's immigration framework, allowing foreign nationals to build stable lives while maintaining close personal ties.
- Who Is Eligible: Eligible family members include a legally married spouse, children under the age of 18, and dependent parents who are financially or physically reliant on the sponsor.
- Sponsor Requirements: The sponsor must hold a valid residence permit in Italy and demonstrate stable income, sufficient housing that meets local standards, and the ability to support the arriving family members without state assistance. Income thresholds vary depending on the number of family members being reunited.
- Language: While there is no formal language requirement to enter under this category, basic Italian knowledge is highly encouraged to support integration, especially for adult family members.
- Process Duration: On average, the process takes 90 to 120 days, starting from the application submission to final approval. Timelines may vary based on regional offices and individual case complexity.
- Fees: Administrative costs typically range from €100 to €200, in addition to any consular fees for visa processing and residence permits.
Study and Research
Study and Research
Italy’s world-renowned universities and vibrant academic culture attract thousands of international students and researchers each year. Whether pursuing a degree or conducting scholarly work, non-EU nationals can apply for dedicated visas that offer both educational and professional opportunities.
Student Visa
Italy offers a student visa to non-EU citizens enrolled in accredited universities, conservatories, or technical institutions.
Requirements:
Applicants must provide proof of admission to a recognized educational institution, sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay, valid health insurance, and suitable accommodation.Language:
Many programs are offered in English, especially at the postgraduate level. However, basic Italian proficiency is recommended for everyday life and broader integration.Fees:
Visa application fees generally range from €50 to €100, excluding additional costs for health insurance or residence permit issuance.Process Duration:
The visa process typically takes 30 to 60 days, depending on the consulate and completeness of the application.Rights:
Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Upon graduation, they may apply for a temporary permit to seek employment, which can lead to a work visa if a job offer is secured.Research Visa
This visa is intended for academic researchers and PhD candidates invited by Italian institutions for scientific or educational projects.
Requirements:
A formal hosting agreement with a recognized university or research body, proof of adequate funding, health insurance, and accommodation details are mandatory.Language:
While many research roles are conducted in English, knowledge of Italian is useful for administrative procedures and daily interactions.Fees:
Application fees typically range from €100 to €200, varying slightly based on consular or regional administrative charges.Process Duration:
Processing usually takes 30 to 90 days, depending on the complexity of the application and the institution involved.Rights:
Researchers may work within the scope of their academic activities and can transition to a work permit if they receive an employment offer in Italy after their research period concludes.Special Programs and Updates for 2025
Italy has introduced several updates to its immigration policies in 2025, aimed at attracting skilled individuals and adapting to evolving social and economic needs.
Digital Nomad Visa
A new visa allows remote workers from outside the EU to live in Italy while working for foreign employers. Applicants must show sufficient income and health coverage.
Quota Increases
The 2025 Decreto Flussi raised work visa quotas in key sectors like agriculture, caregiving, and construction to address labor shortages.Revised Income Requirements
Financial thresholds for various visa categories, including elective residency and family reunification, have been adjusted to reflect inflation.
Green and Recovery Programs
Fast-track options are available for professionals in sustainability, tech, and infrastructure as part of Italy’s green transition and post-COVID recovery strategy.
Elective Residency Visa
This visa is designed for non-EU nationals who wish to live in Italy without working, such as retirees or individuals with stable passive income. It offers a long-term stay for those seeking to enjoy Italy’s lifestyle without engaging in employment.
Who It’s For:
Financially independent individuals, including retirees and remote workers with non-employment income sources.Income Requirement:
A minimum of €31,000 per year for individuals; higher amounts are required for couples or dependents. Income must be passive and recurring.Work Restrictions:
Paid employment or business activity is not allowed under this visa.Fees:
Application costs typically range from €116 to €200, with additional charges for health insurance and residence permits.Process Duration:
Processing usually takes 60 to 90 days, depending on the consulate and completeness of documentation.Asylum and Humanitarian Protection
Italy recognizes the right to seek asylum under international and EU law. Protection is available for those fleeing persecution, war, or serious harm.
Right to Asylum:
Refugee or subsidiary protection may be granted to individuals at risk due to race, religion, political opinion, or conflict in their home country.The Asylum Process:
Applications are submitted at border points or local police offices (Questura). After registration and an interview, the case is reviewed by a Territorial Commission.Temporary Protection:
Temporary protection, such as for Ukrainians, remains in effect in 2025 and may extend to other crisis-affected populations.Fees:
No fees are required. Legal aid and interpretation are provided at no cost.Process Duration:
Decisions typically take 6–12 months, with possible delays in complex or appeal cases.Citizenship and Permanent Residency
Italy offers clear pathways to both long-term residence and citizenship for those who meet legal and residency criteria. These options support individuals seeking to establish deeper, lasting ties with the country.
Permanent Residency:
Non-EU nationals can apply for EU long-term resident status after legally residing in Italy for five consecutive years, provided they have stable income, suitable housing, and Italian language proficiency (A2 level).Citizenship Options:
- By Descent (Jus Sanguinis): Individuals with Italian ancestry may claim citizenship if they can prove an unbroken lineage through official records.
- By Naturalization: Available after 10 years of legal residence for non-EU nationals, or 4 years for EU citizens, subject to good conduct and financial stability.
- By Marriage: Foreign spouses of Italian citizens may apply after 2 years of marriage (if living in Italy), or 3 years if residing abroad—timeframes halved with children. Language proficiency at B1 level is required.
Fees:
Application fees range from €250 to €300, depending on the type of request.Process Duration:
Citizenship procedures can take 24 to 36 months, while permanent residency is usually processed within 90 to 120 days.Conclusion
Italy offers diverse immigration pathways, from work visas to family reunification and permanent residency. With updates in 2025, including the Digital Nomad Visa and green transition incentives, Italy continues to evolve as an attractive destination for global talent and long-term residents.
FAQ about italy Citizenship
1. What are the main types of visas for immigration to Italy?
Visas include work (skilled, seasonal, intra-company), family reunification, student, and Elective Residency for financially independent individuals.
2. How long does it take to get Italian citizenship?
Non-EU nationals need 10 years of residence; EU nationals, 4 years; spouses of Italian citizens, 2 years if living in Italy.
3. Can I work on a student visa in Italy?
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during term time.
4. What is the Digital Nomad Visa in Italy?
A 2025 initiative for remote workers from outside the EU, requiring proof of income and health insurance.
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