Business Desk 
May 11, 2025
Italy has revealed a major overhaul of its immigration policy to assist seasonal migrant labourers and alleviate labour gaps in important sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and care.
This is in accordance with Italy's three-year migration strategy that is looking to aid foreign workers, cut down on unauthorised jobs, and simplify the process of obtaining permits.
Foreign seasonal workers can now legally begin work even before their work permit is granted, a significant change from the former rule that pushed many into illicit work.
Italy's new visa regulation
Here's how the new regulation operates:
Before commencing employment, the migrants need to prove they've submitted an application to convert their seasonal residence permit to a standard work permit.
The employers are also asked to fill out the Unilav employment form online and, in the case of domestic work, enrol the worker with Italy's social security authority, INPS.
This reform prevents workers from losing time and earnings and keeps them covered under Italian labour regulations from day one. Previously, migrants waited until the paperwork was complete before they could work legally, exposing many to exploitation.
To further reinforce the workforce, Italy is raising its yearly work visa quota. In 2025, over 165,000 work visas will be given, compared to 151,000 in 2024.
Of these, over 93,000 visas are for seasonal employment in agriculture and tourism. An additional 10,000 visas are allocated to foreign carers because of the country's ageing population. Construction and healthcare will also gain.
