Conversion into law of Decree-Law 146/2025: urgent measures for the entry into Italy of non-EU citizens and workers

On December 1, 2025, Law No. 179/2025 was published in the Official Gazette, converting with amendments Decree-Law No. 146 of October 3, 2025. This legislation introduces urgent measures aimed at facilitating the entry into Italy of citizens from outside the European Union, with the declared objective of improving the management of labor-related migration flows.

The decree-law, which entered into force on October 4, 2025, followed the parliamentary process provided for by the Constitution: within sixty days, its conversion into law needed to be approved, at which point several significant changes were introduced, as outlined below.

Extended deadlines for workers and employers

To simplify visa procedures for Italy and the subsequent formalization of employment, several operational timeframes have been revised:

• employers will now have 15 days (instead of 7) to confirm the work authorization after the worker has applied for a visa

• once in Italy with the visa, the worker and the employer will have 15 days (instead of 8) to sign the residence contract at the Immigration Desk (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione)

These changes aim to prevent deadlines from expiring and procedural delays that in the past have created considerable difficulties for companies and foreign citizens, also delaying the issuance of residence permits.

Extension of measures for personal care work

Another key change involves the extension until 2028 of the provision allowing for the annual entry of up to 10,000 foreign workers dedicated to assisting elderly individuals over the age of 80 or persons with disabilities. This channel, which operates outside the traditional entry quotas, is an essential tool for meeting the needs of families and the growing demand for personnel in the social and care sector.

The amended law has also broadened eligibility: caregivers now include babysitters responsible for children from birth up to six years old. In such cases, the request for work authorization must be submitted through authorized agencies or specific employer associations.

A step forward in the management of migration flows

The conversion into law of Decree-Law 146/2025 represents an important measure to strengthen the system for planned entry of foreign workers into Italy. The new provisions address the dual objective of supporting Italian families — often struggling to find qualified caregivers — and offering regular employment opportunities to non-EU citizens.

The Government has announced that additional measures may follow in the coming months and years, aiming to further improve the management of immigration and the efficiency of administrative procedures, while also promoting the social and professional inclusion of newcomers.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.