Italy Seasonal Worker Permit
Italy's seasonal worker permit is part of the Decreto Flussi (Flow Decree) quota system, which allocates work permits to non-EU nationals each year. For the 2026-2028 cycle, Italy has authorized nearly 500,000 total permits across all categories, with seasonal permits forming the largest share. In 2026, 94,500 seasonal permits are available, rising to 110,000 in 2027 and 102,000 in 2028. Seasonal permits cover agriculture and tourism/hospitality, with a maximum duration of 9 months. Under certain conditions, seasonal permits can be converted to non-seasonal work permits. Nationals from 40 partner countries enjoy preferential access to the quota.
Seasonal Quota Breakdown by Year
| Year | Agriculture | Tourism & Hospitality | Total Seasonal |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 47,000 | 47,500 | 94,500 |
| 2027 | 55,000 | 55,000 | 110,000 |
| 2028 | 51,000 | 51,000 | 102,000 |
Eligible Sectors & Typical Roles
Agriculture
- Fruit and vegetable harvesting (grapes, olives, citrus, tomatoes)
- Planting, pruning, and crop maintenance
- Greenhouse and nursery work
- Animal husbandry and dairy farming
- Food processing and packaging (linked to harvest)
Tourism & Hospitality
- Hotel staff (housekeeping, reception, porters)
- Restaurant workers (kitchen staff, waiters, dishwashers)
- Beach resort operations (lifeguards, attendants)
- Ski resort operations (seasonal winter roles)
- Event and catering support staff
Requirements
Employer application
The Italian employer must submit the application (Nulla Osta) through the Ministry of Interior's online portal during the quota opening period (click day).
Labor market test
The employer must demonstrate that no suitable Italian or EU worker is available for the position. The role must be listed at the local employment center for at least 15 days.
Partner countries
Nationals from 40 partner countries have preferential access to quotas. These include Albania, Morocco, Tunisia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Senegal, and others with bilateral agreements.
Housing
The employer must provide or arrange suitable accommodation for the seasonal worker.
Health insurance
The worker must be enrolled in the Italian national health service (SSN) or have adequate private health insurance.
No criminal record
The worker must have no serious criminal convictions and must not be subject to any deportation orders.
Valid passport
A passport valid for at least the duration of the seasonal permit is required.
Application Process
Quota opening (Click Day)
The Ministry of Interior announces the opening date for applications each year. Employers must submit requests through the online portal on or after this date. Quotas fill quickly, often within hours.
Employer submits Nulla Osta request
The employer files the work authorization request (Nulla Osta) at the local Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione, specifying the worker's details, job role, duration, and accommodation arrangements.
Approval and Nulla Osta issuance
The Sportello Unico reviews the application, conducts background checks, and issues the Nulla Osta if approved. Processing takes approximately 20-60 days.
Visa application at Italian consulate
The worker applies for a work visa (Type D) at the Italian consulate in their home country, presenting the Nulla Osta and supporting documents.
Arrival and permit of stay
Upon arrival in Italy, the worker must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (permit of stay) at the local Post Office (Kit Postale) within 8 working days.
Costs
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Nulla Osta processing fee | €30-50 |
| Work visa (Type D) consular fee | €116 |
| Permit of stay (Permesso) issuance | €40-100 |
| Revenue stamp (Marca da Bollo) | €16 |
| Health insurance (if not SSN enrolled) | €150-400/season |
| Travel costs (worker's responsibility) | Varies |
Conversion to Non-Seasonal Permit
Under certain conditions, a seasonal permit holder can convert to a non-seasonal work permit:
- The worker has completed at least one seasonal period in Italy
- An Italian employer offers a non-seasonal employment contract
- The conversion must happen within the annual Decreto Flussi quota
- The employer must meet all standard non-seasonal hiring requirements
- Applications for conversion are subject to quota availability