Italy’s 500,000 Work Visa Programme Moves Forward: What Filipinos Should Know

Italy has approved a new immigration plan that will allow nearly 500,000 work permits for non-EU nationals between 2026 and 2028. The programme is part of Italy’s official “Decreto Flussi” system, which sets annual quotas for foreign workers in key industries.

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Unlike an open visa application, this system requires a job offer from an Italian employer. The employer must first apply for authorisation (nulla osta) before a worker can proceed with a visa application through the Italian embassy.

This means opportunities exist, but they are tied to labour demand, not direct individual applications.

What is Italy planning?

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In 2026, Italy will issue 164,850 work permits under the Decreto Flussi programme. This forms part of a larger cumulative quota of 497,550 permits between 2026 and 2028, reflecting continued demand for foreign workers across key sectors.

These permits are divided into two main categories:

267,000 permits will be allocated for seasonal workers, mainly covering agriculture and tourism. These roles are often short-term and linked to Italy’s farms, vineyards, and hospitality sector.

230,550 permits are reserved for non-seasonal and self-employed roles, which include longer-term employment opportunities and potential pathways for those interested in starting small businesses or independent work in Italy.

Why is Italy offering so many work visas?

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Italy’s population has been steadily declining. In 2024, the country recorded around 281,000 more deaths than births, bringing the population to approximately 58.93 million. With a shrinking younger population and an ageing workforce, Italy is increasingly relying on foreign workers to support its economy.

A local think tank, the Osservatorio Conti Pubblici, estimates that Italy may need around 10 million immigrants by 2050 just to maintain its current population and workforce levels.

Legal migration encouraged, irregular migration discouraged

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While the Italian government is encouraging legal migration through work permits, it is also tightening its approach to irregular migration. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has focused on faster deportations and stricter measures on migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean, aiming to strengthen legal pathways for foreign workers.

Italy’s agricultural sector has welcomed the move. The farming group Coldiretti highlighted how essential seasonal workers are to Italy’s food production and supply chain. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has also stressed that legal migration is vital for sustaining industries such as agriculture and tourism.

What this means for Filipino workers

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For many Filipinos dreaming of working abroad, this could open up meaningful employment opportunities in Italy. From working in cafés in Rome, to grape harvesting in Tuscany, or exploring small business opportunities in local towns, the possibilities are wide and varied.

As long as applicants go through the proper legal process, this programme offers a real chance to live and work in one of Europe’s most iconic destinations. It is important to follow official embassy announcements and prepare early for application windows.

This could be a timely opportunity for those considering a career move abroad or exploring what life in Italy could look like in the coming years.