Visa and residence permit for artists and entertainment workers in Italy

Among the visas and residence permits available outside the system of the "flow decree" that Legislative Decree 186/98 provides for in Article 27 is, under (l) (m), (n), (o), the visa and residence permit for artists and entertainment workers, which allows workers in the entertainment industry to enter and work in Italy.

Who can apply for it?

Circus performers, artistic and technical personnel of opera, theater, concert, ballet, and entertainment venues, and artists to be employed in theatrical, broadcasting, film, and cultural or folkloric events are entitled to apply for it.  

The permit is issued for 1 year, renewable in case of the need to close the show or maintain the employment relationship with the employer.

The procedure in a nutshell

Here is what to do to apply for a visa and residence permit for artists and entertainment workers:

1.    proceed to apply online for a work authorization (nulla osta) on behalf of the Italian employer/host company to ANPAL, which will forward it to the relevant “Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione (SUI)”

2.    apply for an entry and work visa at the Italian Consulate competent for the worker's place of residence, once the nulla osta has been obtained

3.    enter Italy and within 8 days request an appointment at the SUI to sign the residence contract

4.    apply for a residence permit and attend the fingerprinting appointment at the local Police office

5.    collect the residence permit at the local Police office when ready

Benefits of obtaining a residence permit for artists and entertainment workers

Family members of holders of a visa and residence permit for artists and entertainment workers lasting at least 1 year are entitled to family reunification.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

Our team is available to provide support and assistance throughout the process! Contact us to book your first consultation with us and to start the process to obtain a visa and residence permit for artists and entertainment workers! #YourWaytoItaly

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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