Looking for a job in Europe? Italy will issue 500,000 work visas to non-European citizens between 2026 and 2028: how to apply

In search of new opportunities, Italy will issue 500,000 new work visas over the next three years, according to a statement from the country's Cabinet.

The initiative is open to non-EU citizens. This call was announced on Monday, June 30, 2025.

At the same time, it seeks to be part of a strategy to mitigate immigration and provide legal solutions. Furthermore, the idea of ​​granting visas is also a response to the labor shortage, they report.

The plan is that next year, permits authorizing foreigners to work formally for a specific period will begin to be issued gradually.

Between 2023 and 2025, the Italian government processed more than 450,000 recognitions for migrants, according to Reuters figures.

Starting in 2026, they expect approximately 164,850 new arrivals . This will increase to a cumulative total of 497,550 new arrivals by 2028.

According to the Italian government, the aging population and the declining birth rate make it necessary to attract more workers.

"The quotas were determined taking into account the needs expressed by social partners and actual work permit applications submitted in previous years, with the goal of a program that meets the needs of businesses and is also realistic ," the statement said.

Furthermore, it is detailed that the objective is to create legal migration channels "to benefit the economy."

According to the Italian Embassy in Bogotá, the following types of visas are currently available:

If you apply, you must have documents such as two photos, payment of consular fees, a valid passport, and a National Visa or Schengen visa application form.

Also, an ID card, current or last employment certificates, a flight reservation, a copy of the "Nulla Osta" (Null Osta), and a "promessa di assunzione," which refers to a letter of commitment to employment.

It is important that, if you apply , you do not forget to visit the Embassy , ​​where they will be able to provide you with more information and learn about the procedures firsthand.

DIGITAL REACH EDITORIAL