Top 10 In-Demand Jobs in Italy That Could Simplify Work Visa Acquisition for Foreigners

Key Points:

1. Italy is struggling with labor shortages in sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, food service, and IT.
2. According to IDOS, Italy will need at least 280,000 foreign workers annually until 2050.
3. Roles such as nurses, physiotherapists, and qualified professionals in health and social services are among the most challenging to fill.

Labor Shortages in Italy:

Italy is currently experiencing significant labor shortages in 37 occupations across various sectors, as highlighted by the 2023 EURES report on shortages and surpluses. The sectors most affected include manufacturing, healthcare, food service, and IT.

Aging Population and Workforce Needs:

In addition to labor shortages, Italy’s aging population is expected to increase further in the coming years, a trend seen in other EU countries as well. This reliance on a foreign workforce means that foreigners in high-demand roles may have a better chance of obtaining work visas in Italy.

In-Demand Jobs:

Among the 37 shortage occupations in Italy, the most in-demand jobs 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 and analysts

Healthcare and IT Challenges:

The EURES report indicates that nurses, physiotherapists, and qualified professionals in health and social services are expected to be the most challenging positions to fill from 2023 to 2027. With ongoing technological innovation and digital transition processes, there will also be a growing need for professionals such as mathematics and computer science specialists, ICT technicians, and engineers.

Educational Requirements:

Between 2023 and 2027, it is estimated that 34.3% of employment needs will require tertiary education (university or vocational training), while 48.1% will require secondary technical-professional education.

IDOS Findings:

Italy will need at least 280,000 foreign workers each year until 2050, as stated by the IDOS Study and Research Centre in October 2023. This influx is necessary to address labor shortages caused by the aging population. By 2050, Italy’s population is expected to decrease by 7.8 million, underscoring the critical need for foreign workers to sustain the workforce.