Meltzer Hellrung helps businesses in a variety of industries arrange visas and permits for their employees to work legally in Italy. With our global reach, a comprehensive understanding of the country’s unique requirements and processes, and a strategic approach, we ensure that the chosen solutions are both appropriate for client needs and legally compliant.

Citizens of the European Union do not need a visa or permit to live and work in Italy, although those staying longer than three months must register with the local municipality.

Non-EU nationals planning to stay and work in Italy longer than 90 days must have a work permit that is arranged by an Italian company. Once the permit is in place, employees may apply for a long-stay visa, also known as a D-visa.

Other types of work visas for non-EU citizens include:

• Temporary work visa: Issued to highly skilled professionals for temporary assignments, although this type is subject to quotas established every year by the government.

• Self-employment visa: The Italian government offers various types of this kind of visa for freelancers, individuals who want to open an innovative company or join an existing company in an executive position (the “startup visa”), and entrepreneurs whose investment is deemed to benefit the Italian economy.

• EU Blue Card: These permits are open to qualifying highly-skilled non-EU professionals who either work independently or for a business. Unlike the temporary work visa, it is not subject to quotas.

 Foreign nationals legally residing in Italy or who hold a visa valid for at least one year can apply for permits for family members to join them.

Non-EU citizens may apply for permanent residence after five years of legal residence in Italy, provided certain conditions are met, including proof of income.

Meltzer Hellrung’s services include:

• Full assessment of the applicant under existing visa laws and regulations

• Assistance at each step of the process: visa application, work authorization, residence permit, extensions, renewals, etc.

• 24/7 access to our case management system to track real-time status of applications and monitor upcoming expiration dates or other requirements

• Document procurement for legalization, attestation, police clearance certification, proof of birth/marriage/citizenship, etc.

• Accompaniment and assistance upon arrival in Italy

Contact is to learn more about how we can help streamline the visa and immigration process.