To work in Italy as a seasonal worker, you must obtain an authorisation to work and a seasonal work visa before you enter Italy.
Italy operates a quota-system, which is fixed annually.
Where and how to apply | Authorisation to work Your future employer must submit an application for an authorisation to work at the One-Stop-Shop for Immigration in the Prefettura where the job will take place. An authorisation to work will be granted only if you come within the annual quota for non-EU workers. Visa The consulate or the embassy is informed that your authorisation to work has been granted and will issue a visa which you have six months to collect and use to enter the country. This period of time is calculated starting from the date on which the authorisation to work is released. The authorisation to work is necessary to obtain the entry visa. Residence permit You must apply for a residence permit to the One-Stop-Shop� for Immigration at the “Prefettura” of the competent province within eight days of arriving in Italy. As a general rule, visas to enter the Italian territory (excluding Uniform Schengen Visas) cost €116. As for residence permits, their cost is €40 for stays between 3 and 12 months; €50 for stays between 12 and 24 months; and €100 for long-term residence permits, highly-qualified workers and intra-corporate transferees. In addition, administrative costs amount to €30 for the sending of the postal kit; €16 for the tax stamp; and €30.46 for issuance costs. |
Documents required | You must sign a contract of residence (in Italian) and present a passport and travel documents. |
Duration of validity of permits | Your authorisation to work will be valid from 20 days up to nine months, depending on the duration of your employment. Residence permits are issued for the duration and purpose indicated on the visa. |
Conditions for renewal | The seasonal worker residence permit may be renewed in case of new opportunities for seasonal work. |
Appeals | Decisions related to visas can be challenged before the Regional Administrative Tribunal within 60 days of notification. Decisions related to residence permits can be challenged before the Regional Administrative Court or further before the State Council |
| Further information | Ministry of Interior – Entry of foreign nationals into Italy |
Change of employment | The seasonal worker residence permit may be prolonged or renewed in case of new opportunities for seasonal work, be it by the same employer or another one. |
Change of status | You can change your residence permit for seasonal work into a residence permit for employment if you have worked in seasonal employment for at least the last two previous years. You must file an application with the One-Stop-Shop for Immigration which will check the availability of quotas for employment. The contract for employment, signed by your employer must also be submitted. If quotas allow, you will be invited to the One-Stop-Shop for Immigration to sign the contract and apply for a residence permit for employment. |
Family members | Not provided for. |
Long-term residence | Not provided for. |
No information available at the moment.