Nuovo Decreto Flussi

The “Decreto Flussi,” or “Flows Decree,” is a pivotal instrument in Italian immigration policy. It sets the quotas for non-EU citizens who can legally enter Italy to work, either as employees or self-employed individuals. The decree is issued annually by the Italian government, typically between the end of one year and the beginning of the next, and specifies the maximum number of work permits available across various sectors and job categories.

The 2024 Decreto Flussi is particularly significant due to its larger quotas compared to previous years. It reflects the Italian government’s recognition of the country’s labor shortages in key industries like agriculture, tourism, construction, and transport. The decree aims to address these shortages by providing a legal pathway for foreign workers to fill the gaps. It prioritizes certain nationalities and sectors, often based on bilateral agreements and the specific needs of the Italian economy.

The application process for the Decreto Flussi is generally complex and highly competitive. Employers seeking to hire non-EU workers must first demonstrate that they have unsuccessfully searched for qualified candidates within Italy and the EU. Once this requirement is met, employers can submit an online application for a “nulla osta” (certificate of no impediment) to the local Prefettura (prefecture). The nulla osta is essentially the government’s authorization for the employer to hire the foreign worker.

The deadline for submitting applications is crucial, and often applications are processed on a “first come, first served” basis. This creates significant pressure and necessitates careful preparation of all required documentation. Common reasons for rejection include incomplete applications, inaccurate information, and exceeding the allocated quotas for specific professions or regions.

Once the nulla osta is granted, the foreign worker can apply for a work visa at the Italian consulate or embassy in their country of origin. Upon arrival in Italy, the worker must apply for a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) which allows them to legally reside and work in the country. The permesso di soggiorno is typically linked to the specific job and employer mentioned in the nulla osta.

The Decreto Flussi is subject to ongoing debate and criticism. Some argue that the quotas are insufficient to meet the actual demand for foreign labor, while others raise concerns about potential exploitation of workers and the impact on wages. Nevertheless, the Decreto Flussi remains a crucial tool for managing labor migration into Italy, attempting to balance the country’s economic needs with its immigration policies and regulations. Its efficient implementation and continuous evaluation are critical to ensuring its effectiveness and minimizing potential challenges.