Simplified access to the EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers

Italy has introduced important changes to the entry and residence procedures for highly skilled workers from outside the European Union. With the publication of a joint circular by the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Labor, the amendments provided for by Legislative Decree No. 152 of October 18, 2023, were implemented, in line with Directive 2021/1883 of the European Parliament and of the Council.

The objective of these measures is to facilitate the issuance of the EU Blue Card, a residence permit that allows non-EU citizens to pursue highly skilled professional activities in Italy, thus promoting the attraction of international talent.

Expansion of the beneficiary profile

One of the main new features is the expansion of the group of workers who can be considered highly skilled. The regulations now recognize different qualification pathways to access the EU Blue Card, including:

• University degrees with a minimum duration of three years, or equivalent to level 6 of the National Qualifications Framework

• Recognition of qualifications according to Legislative Decree 206/2007 for regulated professions

• Higher professional experience of at least five years, comparable to tertiary studies, relevant to the job

• For professionals in the ICT sector, a minimum of three years of experience acquired in the last seven years is also accepted for specific categories such as managers and specialists according to the ISCO-08 classification

University degrees can now be replaced by documentation proving professional experience, expanding the scope of specialized workers who could therefore access the Blue Card despite not having a university degree.

Streamlined procedures and reduced requirements

More flexible procedures have also been introduced for employers and applicants:

• The minimum duration of the required employment contract has been reduced from 12 to 6 months.

• If the worker already holds a residence permit for highly qualified work in another EU country, there is no need to resubmit the qualifications.

• The obligation to pre-verify the availability of personnel in the national labor market has been eliminated if the applicant already holds a similar permit.

• Employers can sign memoranda of understanding with the relevant ministries to expedite the issuance process.

Facilities for intra-European mobility

Another highlight is the possibility of temporary work in Italy for holders of the EU Blue Card issued by another Member State. These professionals will be able to work for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without needing to apply for a visa. If their stay exceeds this period, they must request authorization, but an entry visa will not be required.

Labor Rights and Family Reunification

The working conditions for EU Blue Card holders have been improved: in the event of unemployment, workers can look for a new job or start a self-employed activity without having to register on employment lists; an immediate declaration of availability is sufficient.

Regarding family reunification, the process has been streamlined: if complete applications are submitted at the same time, the family member's residence permit is issued together with the holder's Blue Card. In any case, family members of EU Blue Card holders do not have a minimum residence period to apply for family cohesion or reunification in Italy. Furthermore, a residence permit for family reasons can be converted into one for subordinate employment, self-employment, or studies, if the relevant requirements are met.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general guidance on the subject. It is necessary to seek specialized advice regarding your specific situation.