Italy Announces 497 550 Jobs for Foreign Workers: Pakistanis Can Apply in 2026. Italy has officially announced one of the largest European job openings in 2026, offering 497,550 work visas for foreign workers, including Pakistanis, under the new Decreto Flussi (Flow Decree).
This landmark decision opens the door for skilled and unskilled individuals to work legally in Italy’s booming agriculture, tourism, construction, logistics, and caregiving sectors. The program will run from 2026 to 2028, offering a structured immigration path for non-EU nationals.
If you’re a Pakistani looking for overseas employment in Europe, this Italy work visa 2026 update could be your golden opportunity.
Overview of Italy’s 2026–2028 Work Visa Plan
The Decreto Flussi 2026 (Flow Decree) has been officially approved by the Italian Council of Ministers and published in the Official Gazette.
It outlines legal immigration quotas, visa types, and procedures for non-EU citizens. The primary aim is to balance Italy’s labor shortages with the growing demand for foreign workers.
Here’s a breakdown of the official quota:
| Year | Total Jobs | Seasonal Work | Regular Employment | Self-Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 164,850 | 88,000 | 72,200 | 650 |
| 2027 | 165,850 | 89,000 | 76,200 | 650 |
| 2028 | 166,850 | 90,000 | 76,200 | 650 |
| Total (3 Years) | 497,550 | 267,000+ | 224,600+ | 1,950 |
Why Italy Is Opening Its Doors to Foreign Workers
Italy is facing a severe labor shortage as its population ages and domestic workers migrate to other EU countries. Industries like farming, hospitality, and construction are struggling to find manpower.
By offering 497,550 work permits, the Italian government aims to:
- Fill vacant jobs in essential sectors.
- Regularize foreign labor legally.
- Strengthen Italy’s economic growth.
This also benefits Pakistanis, as Italy has a long-standing labor agreement with Pakistan that allows skilled and unskilled workers to participate in seasonal and non-seasonal programs.
Visa Categories Under the Flow Decree
1. Seasonal Employment (Lavoro Stagionale)
These are short-term job opportunities, mostly in:
- Agriculture and horticulture
- Tourism and hospitality
Duration: Usually 6 to 9 months, renewable annually.
2. Non-Seasonal Employment (Lavoro Subordinato)
These positions are for long-term or full-time employment in:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Caregiving (home assistants, nurses)
- Transport and logistics
Duration: Typically 1–2 years, with a path to long-term residence.
3. Self-Employment (Lavoro Autonomo)
For skilled professionals who wish to open a business or freelance in Italy. Requires business permits, proof of funds, and professional licenses.
How Pakistanis Can Apply for Italy Work Visa in 2026
The Italy work visa process for Pakistanis is employer-driven, meaning your Italian employer must first apply for your work authorization (Nulla Osta).
Here’s a simple 4-step process:
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Find a legitimate Italian employer participating in the Decreto Flussi program. Jobs are usually posted on:
- Italian government job portals
- Reputed recruitment agencies
- EU employment networks
Tip: Make sure the employer is registered under the Flow Decree quota.
Step 2: Employer Applies for Work Authorization (Nulla Osta)
The employer submits an online application through the ALI Immigration Portal on designated “Click Days.”
Once approved, they will receive the Nulla Osta — the official work permit authorization you’ll need to apply for your visa.
Tentative Application Deadlines for 2026:
| Category | Click Day / Deadline |
|---|---|
| Seasonal Work (Agriculture) | January 12, 2026 |
| Seasonal Work (Tourism) | February 9, 2026 |
| Non-Seasonal Employment | February 16, 2026 |
| Family Care Sector | February 18, 2026 |
Step 3: Apply for Type D Work Visa
Once you have the Nulla Osta, you can apply for a Type D Work Visa at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan.
Documents Required:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Original Nulla Osta and employment contract
- Proof of accommodation in Italy
- Health insurance
- Proof of financial means
- Police clearance certificate
- Visa application form
Processing Time: 4–8 weeks depending on workload and category.
Step 4: Travel to Italy and Apply for Residence Permit
After entering Italy, you must apply for a Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days of arrival at the local Post Office or Questura (Immigration Office).
You’ll receive an appointment for fingerprinting and later get your official residence card, allowing you to legally live and work in Italy.
Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Applicants
To qualify under the Italy work visa 2026:
- You must be a non-EU national (e.g., Pakistani).
- You need a valid job offer from an Italian employer.
- Your profession must fall under approved quota categories.
- You must not have criminal records.
- You must possess relevant skills or experience as required by the employer.
Top Industries Hiring Pakistani Workers in Italy
| Sector | Job Roles Available |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Farm workers, harvesters, greenhouse staff |
| Tourism & Hospitality | Hotel staff, cooks, waiters, cleaning services |
| Construction | Masons, electricians, plumbers, carpenters |
| Caregiving | Nurses, home assistants, elderly caregivers |
| Logistics & Manufacturing | Machine operators, warehouse assistants, drivers |
These sectors will collectively recruit the majority of the 497,550 workers under the new plan.
Salary Expectations for Pakistani Workers
| Sector | Average Monthly Salary (EUR) | Equivalent in PKR (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | €1,100 – €1,300 | Rs. 340,000 – Rs. 410,000 |
| Construction | €1,500 – €1,800 | Rs. 465,000 – Rs. 560,000 |
| Hospitality | €1,200 – €1,400 | Rs. 370,000 – Rs. 435,000 |
| Caregiving | €1,000 – €1,200 | Rs. 310,000 – Rs. 370,000 |
| Manufacturing | €1,400 – €1,700 | Rs. 435,000 – Rs. 520,000 |
Note: Salaries may vary by region, employer, and experience.
Important Notes for Pakistani Applicants
- Only employers in Italy can apply for the quota; individuals cannot apply directly.
- Unused quotas will carry over to the next year.
- Seasonal workers can later convert their permit into long-term employment.
- Applicants must have basic Italian language skills for better job success.
Benefits of Working in Italy
- Legal employment and residence rights
- Access to healthcare and pension benefits
- Possibility to bring family members after residence approval
- Pathway to permanent residency after five years
- Cultural exposure and European job experience
FAQs About Italy Work Visa 2026 for Pakistanis
1. When will applications for the Italy work visa 2026 open?
Applications will open in early January 2026 for seasonal jobs and February 2026 for non-seasonal categories, depending on the “Click Day” schedule.
2. Can Pakistanis apply for the Italy work visa without a job offer?
No. The Italy visa process is employer-driven, meaning your Italian employer must first apply for a work permit on your behalf.
3. What are the main job sectors for Pakistanis in Italy?
Top hiring sectors include agriculture, hospitality, caregiving, construction, and manufacturing.
4. How long does it take to process an Italy work visa?
It usually takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the visa type and consulate workload.
5. Can seasonal workers extend their stay in Italy?
Yes, after completing seasonal employment, workers can apply to convert to a non-seasonal work permit if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
Italy’s announcement of 497,550 jobs for foreign workers (2026–2028) marks a massive employment opportunity for Pakistanis seeking legal work visas in Europe.
With clear categories, transparent procedures, and official government backing, this program is one of the most reliable routes to secure a European job in 2026.
