Italy Opens 165,000 Work Visas

Italy Announces 164,850 Work Visas for 2026 Under New Immigration Plan

Italy has confirmed it will issue 164,850 work visas exclusively for the year 2026. This initiative is part of a broader three-year immigration policy spanning from 2026 to 2028. This strategy mirrors a policy first adopted by Canada in 2022 for the 2023-2025 period. Over the next three years, nearly half a million foreign workers are expected to arrive in Italy through this program, with annual quotas set for each year.

This article will focus specifically on the opportunities available for the 2026 period.

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Understanding the Flussi Program

The visas are issued under Italy’s famous “Flussi” program, an annual immigration flow that grants opportunities for both seasonal and non-seasonal workers. A key advantage of this program is that it does not require applicants to know the Italian language, hold a university degree, or possess extra qualifications. These are primarily lower-skilled programs.

For instance, agricultural visas are typically valid for nine months. Non-agricultural, non-seasonal visas also allow skilled individuals to work in Italy. The Italian government designates a list of eligible countries whose nationals can apply. Countries like Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh are consistently included in this list.

While the preliminary approval has been granted by Italy’s Council of Ministers, the final list of eligible nationalities will be released once the schedule is finalized. However, it is highly probable that applicants from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh will be eligible to participate.

Breakdown of the 2026 Visa Quotas

The Italian government has allocated the 164,850 available visas for 2026 across several sectors:

Seasonal Workers (88,000 visas): This quota is for individuals working in the agriculture sector (e.g., farm work and fruit picking) and the tourism and hotel industry (e.g., seasonal staff for the summer season).
Non-Seasonal Workers (63,250 visas): These visas are for sectors like construction, manufacturing, and certain service professions. These roles also do not demand highly specialized skills.
Transport and Logistics Sectors (To be confirmed): A specific quota for these industries is expected but has not yet been finalized.
Special Quota (13,600 visas): This is reserved for individuals working in healthcare, social care, or as domestic workers. Italy has a growing need for caregivers due to its aging population, as domestic workers are in short supply locally.

The Application Process: “Click Days” and Employer Sponsorship

A crucial aspect of the Flussi program is the “pre-filing” system, which is scheduled to begin in Autumn 2025. This gives employers ample time to prepare their applications.

In Italy, the work permit application must be initiated by an employer. This means securing a job offer from an Italian employer is the most critical step. Once you have a job, your employer submits a work permit application on your behalf to the Italian Interior Ministry during designated periods known as “Click Days.”

These are the proposed Click Days for the 2026 program:

January 12, 2026: For seasonal workers in the agricultural sector.
February 9, 2026: For seasonal workers in the tourism sector.
February 16, 2026: For non-seasonal workers across various industries.
February 18, 2026: For individuals applying for self-employment visas.

From Work Permit to Italian Residence

If the employer’s application is successful—which is highly likely as visas are issued on a first-come, first-served basis during Click Days—the government will issue a work permit (Nulla Osta). The employer will then send this permit, along with the job contract details, to you.

With this documentation, you can apply for a national D-type work visa at the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country. Upon arrival in Italy, this visa is converted into a final residence permit card.

It is important to note that seasonal worker visas are issued for a maximum of 9 months, while non-seasonal visas can be valid for one year or longer and are often renewable.

A Critical Warning: Avoiding Fraudulent Agents

A significant challenge for applicants is the prevalence of an “agent mafia.” Unscrupulous agents often exploit the system by pre-selling visa slots and job contracts, capitalizing on the fact that many applicants do not speak Italian and struggle to contact employers directly.

They promise to arrange everything for a large commission. It is imperative to avoid these fraudulent agents. Do not waste your savings and capital on their false promises. Instead, focus on finding legal and registered recruitment companies if you need assistance.

How to Apply Legally and Safely

The best approach is to try to apply yourself. When the official invitation for the 2026 program is released (which will confirm Pakistan’s eligibility), the full procedure will be announced.

You can apply for jobs on various online portals by submitting your CV. However, be aware that the response rate is extremely low—often less than 5-10%—due to intense competition from applicants all over the world. While securing a job directly from an employer is difficult, making consistent, free efforts to apply is never a loss.

Always choose legal immigration pathways. With patience and perseverance, you may find a legitimate opportunity. The Flussi program has enabled many to reach Italy through legal means.

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