Italy Speeds Up Work Permits for Non-EU Nationals with New EU Directive
April 13, 2026
The new rules require Questure to issue the combined permit within 30 days of a complete application, with renewals finalized within 90 days, a substantial speed-up from prior timeframes.
Italy has completed the transposition of the EU Single-Permit Directive, issuing a final legislative decree in early April and publishing details in mid-April to enable a one-stop combined residence permit and work authorization for non-EU nationals.
Immediate steps include updating immigration portals, retraining frontline staff, and HR teams refreshing document checklists to leverage the shorter timelines.
The reform aligns with Italy’s quota-based Decreti Flussi program and is expected to streamline hiring in sectors facing skills shortages, aiding multinational companies posting or recruiting third-country nationals and clarifying workers’ rights and mobility.
Employers must keep applicants informed of every communication from immigration authorities to boost transparency and compliance.
VisaHQ’s Italy portal offers online support, including real-time guidance, document checklists, and application tracking to align with the 30-day timeline.
Italy is among a handful of EU states that met the April 2026 transposition deadline, reinforcing its role as a gateway for skilled talent in southern Europe.
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VisaHQ • Apr 13, 2026
Government Gives Final Green Light to EU ‘Single Permit’ for Foreign Workers