Single Work Permit: officially in force in Italy from May 22, 2026

Starting from May 22, 2026, Italy has officially implemented the new rules governing the single work permit system. The changes were introduced through Legislative Decree No. 83 of April 16, 2026, which transposes EU Directive 2024/1233 into Italian law and updates key provisions of the Consolidated Immigration Act.

The reform aims to simplify administrative procedures for non-EU nationals who wish to live and work legally in Italy, while also improving transparency and establishing clearer processing timelines.

Faster issuance of the permit

One of the most significant updates concerns the time required to obtain the permit after entering Italy. Under the new rules, the Police Headquarters (Questura) must issue the single work permit within 30 days after the application process has been completed.

The overall procedure will continue to be divided into two stages:

• up to 60 days for the employer to obtain the work authorization (nulla osta);

• an additional 30 days for the issuance of the single work permit.

As a result, the full process will have a maximum duration of 90 days, while the final phase has been shortened compared to the previous system.

New deadlines for renewals

The reform also changes the deadlines for permit renewals. Administrative processing times for renewals and standard residence permits will increase from 60 to 90 days.

At the same time, foreign nationals will also have more time to submit renewal applications before their permits expire, helping to reduce administrative pressure and avoid interruptions in legal residency or employment status.

Introduction of the new electronic permit

Another important innovation is the launch of a new electronic residence permit equipped with enhanced anti-counterfeiting security features in line with updated European standards.

The document will clearly display the wording “single work permit” and will contain additional notes regarding:

• employment conditions;

• workers’ rights;

• procedural safeguards;

• protections granted to family members.

The goal is to provide greater transparency and improve access to information for foreign workers residing in Italy.

New obligations for employers

The legislation also places additional responsibilities on employers. Companies will now be required to promptly inform foreign workers about every step of the work authorization process, including requests for additional documents or possible rejections.

This measure is intended to strengthen communication and ensure that applicants remain fully informed throughout the procedure.

Categories excluded from the new rules

The new single permit framework will not apply to all residence permits that allow employment in Italy. Several categories remain excluded because they are regulated under separate immigration provisions.

Among the main excluded groups are:

• self-employed workers;

• foreign investors;

• highly specialized executives and managers;

• maritime workers;

• intra-company transferees;

• digital nomads and remote workers;

• students and trainees;

• individuals under temporary or special protection;

• victims of labor exploitation or domestic violence;

• people residing in Italy for religious, medical, or family-related reasons.

In total, the law identifies 22 categories that are exempt from the new single work permit system.

Italy aligns with European standards

With the implementation of the new single work permit rules, Italy moves closer to broader European Union standards on legal migration and labor mobility for non-EU citizens.

The reform is expected to streamline administrative procedures, reduce waiting times, and strengthen protections for foreign workers, while also providing employers with a more structured and transparent system for hiring international staff.

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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.

Article written by Alessia Ajelli, Managing Associate of LCA Studio Legale, Italian lawyer specialized on Italian immigration and citizenship law.