12
Feb 2025
Italy has officially launched its “click day” system for 2025, allowing employers to submit applications to hire foreign workers. The first application window opened on February 5th, with additional opportunities set for February 7th and February 12th.
With over 180,000 entry permits available, Italy aims to address labor shortages across various sectors.
Application process and quotas for 2025
The Italian government has divided applications into three separate days based on worker categories.
February 5th: Employers can apply for non-seasonal workers from countries that have cooperation agreements with Italy. The quota for this category is 70,720 workers.
February 7th: Applications open for self-employed workers and other specialized roles, such as social healthcare workers. Only 730 permits are available.
February 12th: The last round is for seasonal workers in the agricultural and tourism sectors, with a quota of 110,000 workers.
In total, 181,450 foreign workers will be granted residence and work permits in 2025.
Employers must submit applications through the Ministry of the Interior’s online ALI portal. The process is competitive, as applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
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High demand, challenges in the system
The demand for foreign labor is significant. Before the first click day began, over 165,000 applications were already prepared, signaling the urgency among employers.
While the system is designed to streamline foreign worker admissions, concerns remain. Some critics argue that the quota-based system does not meet demand in certain sectors, particularly family assistance.
Filippo Breccia Fratadocchi, Vice President of Nuova Collaborazione, noted that the current framework fails to guarantee stability for families relying on foreign caregivers.
Additionally, Italy’s government continues to address issues related to migration policies. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted concerns over the misuse of immigration systems, warning that criminal organizations have exploited the process in the past.
Employers urged to act quickly
Employers unable to secure workers during click days may still apply at later dates, but their chances diminish as quotas fill rapidly. Companies must demonstrate that no suitable candidates are available within Italy before they can hire foreign workers.
To maximize approval chances, businesses must ensure proper documentation, including business registration proof and financial statements. The structured but highly competitive nature of the process makes early preparation essential.
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Italy’s workforce strategy for 2025
By issuing over 180,000 work permits, Italy hopes to stabilize labor markets, particularly in industries facing worker shortages.
Agriculture, construction, and hospitality remain priority sectors for foreign recruitment. The government sees foreign labor as vital to sustaining economic growth while continuing to regulate migration effectively.
Changes for travelers, migrants
Italy’s click days policy affects both short- and long-term visitors to the European Union (EU). The faster hiring of foreign workers could shape visa policies and border rules.
Soon, the EU will launch the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), adding new entry requirements for non-EU travelers to Schengen countries. ‘
While the ETIAS applies to short-term visitors, Italy’s stricter labor migration rules under the Decreto Flussi align with the EU’s broader approach to managing movement.
For long-term migrants, Italy’s need for foreign workers could influence Schengen visa policies. A rising demand for seasonal and full-time labor might push Italy to support more flexible long-term visa options in the EU.
This could lead to changes in work permits, making it easier for some foreign nationals to move from temporary to permanent jobs in the Schengen Area.
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Shaping the future of immigration policies
Italy’s click days system reflects a growing trend in the EU toward stricter labor migration rules. By setting quotas and prioritizing employer-driven applications, Italy supports the EU’s approach to controlled immigration.
Countries facing labor shortages, such as Spain and Germany, may study Italy’s system to see if similar policies could work for them.
Italy’s approach also fits with the EU’s efforts to curb illegal migration. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has suggested that stricter monitoring may follow to prevent criminals from exploiting migration rules.
This could lead to stronger cooperation among EU nations to tighten labor entry rules, keeping economic migration regulated and beneficial.
While Italy’s system creates legal job opportunities, it also raises concerns about balancing labor needs with strict immigration policies across Europe.
Future of Italy’s foreign workforce
As Italy moves through the scheduled click days, both employers and workers are watching closely. The outcome of this year’s process will shape future labor policies and determine whether reforms are necessary to better meet workforce demands.