Study Reveals 1 in 4 Jobs in Italy Is Offered to Foreign Workers
Key Takeaways
1. A recent study reveals that one in four jobs in Italy is targeted at migrant workers.
2. Most job offers are in tourism, with a growing demand for migrant workers in construction as well.
3. Italy faces worker shortages in 37 occupations, according to the latest EURES report.
A recent report has highlighted that one in four jobs in Italy is aimed at foreign workers, emphasizing the country’s reliance on migrant labor.
The study, conducted by the Union of Chambers of Commerce and the Italian Ministry of Labor, analyzed recruitment programs from service corporations during the first seven months of 2024.
During this period, companies in Italy planned to offer 650,000 employment contracts to foreign workers, according to the Italian News Agency ANSA.
The tourism industry accounted for 20 percent of these job vacancies. Additionally, significant offers were in the service sector, including roles in call centers, cleaning, green maintenance, transport, logistics, and warehousing.
Rising Demand for Migrant Workers in Construction
Italy has seen an increasing demand for foreign workers in the construction industry during the first seven months of 2024. Conversely, demand for migrant workers in the metallurgy sector has decreased.
The number of job vacancies for foreign workers has grown in recent years. InfoMigrants reported that in 2023, 19.2 percent of overall industry job requests were aimed at foreign workers, the highest figure in the last six years.
Most In-Demand Jobs in Italy According to EURES
The 2023 EURES report on shortages and surpluses indicates that Italy is facing labor shortages in 37 occupations.
In addition to labor challenges, Italy is dealing with an aging population, which means the country will increasingly rely on foreign workers.
According to the latest EURES report, roles facing labor shortages in Italy include:
- Manufacturing laborers
- Welders and flame cutters
- Bakers, pastry cooks, and confectionery makers
- Food service counter attendants
- Healthcare assistants
- Medical imaging and therapeutic equipment technicians
- Personal services workers
- Computer network and system technicians
- Physicians and engineering science technicians
- Software and applications developers
The report also highlights that some of the most challenging roles to fill between 2023-2027 are expected to be nurses, physiotherapists, and qualified professionals in health and social services.
It is estimated that between 2023 and 2027, 34.3 percent of job requirements will be for personnel with tertiary education, and 48.1 percent will require secondary technical-professional education.
Meanwhile, a note from the IDOS Study and Research Centre in October 2023 indicated that Italy will need at least 280,000 foreign workers per year until 2050 to address labor shortages.