Italy streamlines temporary work visa for foreigners

• Published On: 02 October 2024 at 17:52

To address a growing shortage of skilled workers, the Italian government is taking significant steps to streamline the application process for foreigners seeking temporary work visas.

The plan calls for increasing the number of days per year when applications can be submitted, known as "Click Days," to better align with employer needs.

According to recent TravelBiz reports, current visa quotas and deadlines are insufficient to meet labour demand. Maria Grazia Gabrielli, Secretary of Cgil, emphasised the importance of moving beyond the limited "click day" system to meet the country's current workforce needs.

Despite these changes, the government will not change the Bossi-Fini Law, which requires foreign nationals to obtain a job offer prior to entry. This law imposes stricter requirements for residence permits and penalties on employers who hire undocumented workers.

Concerns about visa fraud and exploitation by organised crime have prompted changes to ensure stricter oversight. Prime Minister Meloni addressed the issue of criminal gangs abusing seasonal work visas, emphasising the importance of reforming the application process to protect foreign workers and the labour market's integrity.