Italy Is Opening Its Doors: 500,000 Work Visas Available Over the Next Three Years

If living and working in Europe has always been on your bucket list, this might be your moment. Italy, the country known for its food, fashion, and stunning scenery, is set to offer nearly 500,000 work visas for non-EU nationals between 2026 and 2028. That includes potential opportunities for Filipinos.

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This new visa programme was recently approved by the Italian cabinet. It follows a similar move from 2023 to 2025, during which the country issued more than 450,000 work permits. This time, they are expanding the programme even further.

What is Italy planning?

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In 2026, Italy aims to release 164,850 work permits. By the end of 2028, the total number of permits issued is expected to reach 497,550. That is a huge number of legal jobs, which could lead to exciting possibilities for overseas workers.

These work permits are divided into two main groups:

• 267,000 permits will be issued for seasonal workers. This mostly covers jobs in agriculture and tourism, ideal for those looking for short-term work in Italy’s beautiful towns and countryside.

• 230,550 permits are set aside for non-seasonal and self-employed roles, perfect for those who want something more long-term or are interested in starting a small business abroad.

Why is Italy offering so many work visas?

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

A local think tank, the Osservatorio Conti Pubblici, has even estimated that the country will need about 10 million immigrants by 2050 just to maintain its current population 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 tougher restrictions on migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean. The goal is to provide safer, legal ways for foreigners to enter the country and contribute to its economy.

Strong support from industries

Italy’s agricultural sector has welcomed the move. The farming group Coldiretti highlighted how essential seasonal workers are for Italy’s food production. The country’s Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, also said that legal migration is key to helping industries such as agriculture and tourism survive and grow.

Also read: Visa-Free Destinations for Filipinos in 2025 – No Hassle Travel!

What this means for Filipino workers

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For many Filipinos dreaming of life abroad, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. From managing a café in Rome to harvesting grapes in Tuscany or launching a small business in a local village, the possibilities are diverse and exciting.

As long as you go through the proper application process, this programme offers a real chance to live and work in one of Europe’s most iconic destinations. Keep an eye on official embassy announcements and be ready to act when the application periods open.

Whether you are planning a career move or simply curious about what life abroad could look like, Italy might just be the next big step you have been waiting for.