Italy to Extend Application Period for Temporary Work Visas for Foreigners

Key Takeaways

1. Italy plans to extend the application period for temporary work visas for foreigners.
2. The government seeks to increase the number of "click days" without modifying the existing immigration law.
3. This measure is aimed at improving security and preventing the misuse of work visas.

The Italian government is preparing to increase the number of days each year during which foreigners can apply for temporary work visas, commonly known as "click days."

This decision was confirmed during a meeting between government officials, unions, and organizations, where new plans for improving the visa system were outlined. The move comes in response to Italy’s labor market not meeting the demand for regular foreign workers.

"We need to move beyond the click day. We need an annual flow system, no longer tied to quotas and precise deadlines, but based on the real needs of the country."  
– Maria Grazia Gabrielli, Cgil Secretary

No Changes to the Bossi-Fini Law

While the government acknowledges the need for reforms that allow foreign workers to enter the country more easily, it has clarified that the Bossi-Fini law, which governs immigration, will remain unchanged. The law includes:

- Stricter requirements for foreigners and their families to obtain residence permits.
- A mandate that foreign workers must secure a job offer before entering Italy.
- Enhanced powers for deportation and detention of irregular migrants.
- Penalties for employers who hire undocumented workers.

Government Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano revealed the guidelines of the upcoming decree, which will soon be presented to the Council of Ministers.

Addressing Misuse of Work Visas

Another reason for the government’s focus on reform is related to concerns over fraud and the misuse of work visas by criminal organizations. There are suspicions that criminal groups have infiltrated the visa process.

"Requests to bring foreign workers to Italy from companies in certain areas, particularly Campania, are clearly disproportionate to the needs of those regions. Many foreigners who arrive for work do not sign any regular employment contracts."  
– Undersecretary Mantovano

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has previously expressed concern about criminal exploitation of Italy's seasonal work visas, noting reports of Italian visas being resold for up to $15,000, particularly targeting Bangladeshi nationals.