The Italian government has officially enacted Decree Law No. 145/2024, which introduces significant changes to the entry procedures for foreign workers. This law, effective as of October 11, 2024, aims to enhance the efficiency of the application process and facilitate smoother transitions for foreign employees entering the Italian labor market.
Key provisions of the decree focus on modernizing how contracts and agreements are executed between employers and foreign workers. Notably, the new law allows for digital signatures on the contract of stay and integration agreements, eliminating the previous requirement for both parties to physically visit immigration offices within eight days of entry. Now, employers and workers can sign these documents online, streamlining the process and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Under the revised regulations, employers are required to submit the digitally signed contracts to the immigration office for further processing. This change not only simplifies the procedure but also accelerates the overall timeline for foreign workers to begin their employment in Italy.
Beginning in January 2025, additional steps will be implemented to further refine the application process. Employers will need to confirm their interest in a work permit within seven days upon receiving notification that a worker’s visa application has been reviewed. If a work permit is approved, the Visa Information System will send a certified email request to the employer for confirmation. Failure to respond within this seven-day window will result in the revocation of authorization.
The decree also outlines new rules regarding work permits under Italy’s quota system. These include adjustments to the maximum number of applications an individual employer can submit and updated quotas for 2025. Furthermore, a new requirement for biometric data collection will take effect for national visas starting in January, enhancing security measures in line with European standards.
In addition to these changes, the waiting period for labor market tests has been shortened to eight days, expediting the process for employers seeking to hire foreign talent.
It is important to note that Decree Law No. 145/2024 must be presented to the Italian Parliament for conversion into law by December 10, 2024. If not approved by this deadline, it will lose its effectiveness. The Bureau of Immigration and Labor (BAL) will continue to monitor developments related to this decree and provide updates as necessary.
This legislative move reflects Italy’s commitment to attracting skilled foreign workers while ensuring that processes are efficient and user-friendly. As global competition for talent intensifies, these reforms position Italy as a more accessible destination for international professionals.
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