Italy to offer 10,000 additional work visas for foreign caregivers in 2025

On Wednesday, the government announced that Italy will issue an additional 10,000 work visas next year for people wanting to care for the elderly and disabled. The move is aimed at meeting the country’s growing demand for caregivers due to an aging population and falling birth rates. The new visa quota will complement the 452,000 work visas already granted for 2023–2025.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has adopted various policies to control illegal immigration while increasing the number of legal migration routes due to labor shortages in the country.

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Why is Italy increasing the number of visas?

Italy has long struggled with a shortage of caregivers for elderly and disabled citizens. According to Reuters news agency, charities, including the Catholic group Sant’Egidio, have been lobbying for an increase in the number of visas for caregivers for years.

According to the Italian government, the country’s aging population and low birth rate have created an urgent need for more foreign workers in the sector. The latest data shows that approximately 3.2 million third-country nationals (TCNs) live in Italy. Of these, approximately 2.4 million are currently employed, representing over 10% of the country’s workforce. Sectors such as personal and collective services, agriculture, hospitality and construction are particularly dependent on these foreign workers. Italy needs around 280,000 new foreign workers per year to maintain a stable workforce, especially in sectors such as care, construction and hospitality.

The additional 10,000 visas will be part of the country’s broader efforts to meet labor needs in the coming years.

Average salary of caregivers in Italy

“In Italy, the average salary of caregivers is around 24,814 euros (approximately Rs 2.2 lakh) per year and the hourly rate is around 12 euros. The salary range typically ranges from €18,908 to €28,809, depending on experience and location. Intermediate-level caregivers typically earn less, while more experienced caregivers may earn higher wages. For people working in cities such as Milan, the salary may be slightly higher, with some specialists earning up to €26,820 per year,” reports ERI Economic. Research Institute.

How to apply for a caregiver job in Italy?

To apply for a caregiver visa, Indian applicants will need to:

1. Go to the VFS Global website and click “Apply for a Visa”.

2. In the “Start your application” section, download application form D (long-term) and complete it.

3. Book your appointment and select a seat at the nearest Visa Application Center (VAC).

4. You will receive an appointment confirmation email which you must download and bring to your appointment.

5. Payments can be made online via the website or in person at VAC

6. Go to your scheduled appointment with your visa application form and all supporting documents.

7. After submission, the Italian Embassy (in New Delhi, Mumbai or Kolkata) will check your documents.

8. Once processed, your documents will be sent to you by courier or you can collect them from VAC.

What are the eligibility criteria?

If you are considering applying for a job as a caregiver in Italy, you must meet the following requirements:

Job offer: You must have a confirmed job offer from an Italian employer.

Experience and qualifications: While formal qualifications aren’t always necessary, having experience or certifications in caregiving can improve your chances of getting hired.

Medical consent: You may need to undergo a medical examination and provide proof of good health.

Financial stability: Your employer must demonstrate that they can afford to pay your salary and provide accommodation if necessary.

After completing the visa application, it will be processed by the Italian embassies in New Delhi, Mumbai or Kolkata. If approved, your visa will be sent by post or can be collected in person at VAC.

What are the visa costs?

Visa application fee: The fee for a long-term work visa (type D) is approximately EUR 116.

Residence permit fees: Upon arrival in Italy, you must apply for a residence permit, which costs between 80 and 200 euros, depending on the length of your stay.

Medical insurance: You must have valid health insurance for the duration of your stay in Italy, which usually costs between 100 and 300 euros per year.

A work permit allows you to enter Italy, but you must apply for a residence permit within eight days of arrival.

What documents do you need?

To apply for a work visa in Italy, you must submit the following documents:

Signed employment contract from the employer

Nulla Osta (work permit) from your employer, both original and copy

A valid Indian passport with at least two blank pages and a validity period of minimum three months after the expiry of the visa validity period

Passport size photos

Valid health insurance or international travel insurance

Completed Italian long-stay visa application form

Proof of visa payment

CV and cover letter

Diplomas and certificates, if applicable

Proof of accommodation in Italy

Bank statements or proof of sponsorship showing funds

Next steps for Italian employers?

Employers in Italy are required to apply for a Nulla Osta, or work permit, at the local immigration office. Once approved, they must send the work visa to the employee who will then submit the application to the Italian Embassy.

A work visa can be valid for up to two years and can be extended for a maximum of five years, depending on the employment contract.

If your visa is approved, you have two months to collect it and enter Italy.