The Italian government has officially approved a new Decree of the President of the Council of Ministers (DPCM), published in the Official Gazette, outlining legal immigration plans for foreign workers for the years 2026, 2027, and 2028.
Commonly known as the “Flow Decree”, this policy defines the quotas, job types, and procedures for non-EU citizens—such as Pakistanis—seeking employment in Italy.
According to the decree, Italy will open its doors to nearly 500,000 foreign workers across various sectors during the three-year period, offering a major opportunity for Pakistanis to work legally in Europe.
The Flow Decree specifies the following annual quotas for different employment categories, including seasonal work, regular employment, and self-employment.
| 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 |
These quotas are subject to adjustment, as the Italian government may issue additional decrees depending on labor market demands in agriculture, tourism, and other key sectors.
Officials noted that seasonal jobs primarily cover agriculture and tourism, while non-seasonal employment includes roles in construction, logistics, manufacturing, and caregiving.
For 2026, the tentative application dates are as follows:
While the process is employer-driven, Pakistani applicants must secure a job offer before applying. Below is a step-by-step guide to the Italian work visa process under the Flow Decree:
Before anything else, a Pakistani worker must receive a formal job offer from an Italian employer willing to hire them under the quota system.
The Italian employer must submit an online application through the ALI Immigration Portal (Sportello Unico Immigrazione) during official “click-day” windows announced each year.
Once the nulla osta is approved, the employer sends it to the worker, who must then apply for a Type D Work Visa at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan.
Documents required generally include:
Upon arrival in Italy, workers must apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days. This document legally allows the holder to live and work in Italy for the duration of their contract.