Decreto Flussi Explained — Italy Seasonal Work Visa 2026-2027 Guide
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🇮🇹 What Is the Italy Seasonal Work Visa?
The Italy seasonal work visa is a temporary work permit that allows non-EU citizens to legally enter Italy for seasonal employment, primarily in the agriculture and tourism/hospitality sectors. This visa is part of the Italian government’s annual Decreto Flussi (Flow Decree) program, which sets quotas for the number of foreign workers permitted to enter Italy for work purposes. Decreto Flussi explained simply: it is Italy’s annual immigration quota system.
Seasonal work is defined as employment linked to a specific season or time of year, such as:
- Agriculture: Harvesting, planting, fruit picking, vineyard work, and general farm labor
- Tourism: Hotels, restaurants, resorts, and hospitality services
The Italy seasonal work visa 2026-2027 program offers one of the largest legal migration opportunities in Europe, with nearly 500,000 work permits available over the 2026-2028 period. Decreto Flussi explained in numbers: 497,550 total work permits over three years.
📋 Quick Overview — Decreto Flussi Explained for Italy Seasonal Work Visa 2026-2027
Total 2026 Quota: 164,850 work permits
Total 2027 Quota: 165,850 work permits
Total 2028 Quota: 166,850 work permits
Seasonal Quota 2026: 88,000 (Agriculture + Tourism)
Seasonal Quota 2027: 89,000 (47,000 Agriculture + 42,000 Tourism)
Agriculture Quota: 47,000 per year (2026-2028)
Agricultural Click Day: 12 January annually at 9:00 AM
Tourism Click Day: 9 February annually at 9:00 AM
📜 Decreto Flussi Explained — The Legal Framework
Decreto Flussi explained in simple terms: it is the Italian government’s annual decree that establishes the number of non-EU workers permitted to enter Italy for employment. The latest decree, DPCM 2 October 2025, was published in the Official Gazette on 15 October 2025. Decreto Flussi explained as a triennial program: it covers 2026, 2027, and 2028.
This decree introduces a triennial program (2026-2028) that authorizes a total of 497,550 foreign workers to enter Italy over three years, making it one of the largest legal migration programs in Europe. Decreto Flussi explained in comparison: this is larger than many EU countries’ annual migration quotas.
The decree also includes provisions for the conversion of existing residence permits into work permits, providing a pathway for undocumented workers to regularize their status. This is another key aspect of Decreto Flussi explained for those already in Italy.
How Decreto Flussi Works
Decreto Flussi explained through its operational mechanism: each year, the Italian government sets quotas based on labor market needs. Employers must apply for work authorization (Nulla Osta) through the Portale ALI system. The Decreto Flussi explained process involves:
- Pre-filling: Employers pre-fill application forms (October-December)
- Click Day: Applications are submitted on specific dates (January-February)
- Quota Allocation: Applications are processed in order of submission
- Nulla Osta Issuance: Work authorization is issued upon approval
🗓️ Upcoming Click Days 2026-2027 — Decreto Flussi Schedule
The Decreto Flussi program follows a fixed annual schedule of Click Days — the specific dates when employers submit applications for work authorization (Nulla Osta) through the Portale ALI. Decreto Flussi explained through its timeline: the Click Day is the most critical date for applicants.
2027 Click Day Schedule — Decreto Flussi Explained
Agricultural Seasonal Workers
Click Day for seasonal agricultural workers. This is the first and most significant Click Day of the year under Decreto Flussi.
2027 · 47,000 spotsTourism Seasonal Workers
Click Day for seasonal tourism and hospitality workers. Hotels, restaurants, and resorts under Decreto Flussi.
2027 · 42,000 spotsNon-Seasonal Workers
Click Day for non-seasonal subordinate workers (Model B2020). Various sectors including manufacturing, construction, and healthcare.
2027 · 76,200 spotsFamily Assistance Workers
Click Day for family/domestic assistance workers (Model A-bis). Domestic care and assistance services.
2027 · 14,000 spots2026 Remaining Dates — Decreto Flussi Explained
Tourism Seasonal Workers
Next upcoming Click Day for tourism/hospitality seasonal workers under Decreto Flussi.
2026 · 41,000 spotsNon-Seasonal Workers
Click Day for non-seasonal subordinate workers (Model B2020).
2026 · 76,200 spotsFamily Assistance Workers
Click Day for family/domestic assistance workers (Model A-bis).
2026 · 13,600 spotsApplication Deadline
Applications accepted until quotas filled or this date. Applications not processed within six months from 31 December are automatically archived.
DeadlinePre-filling Period for 2027 — Decreto Flussi Explained
The pre-filling period for 2027 applications will follow the same schedule as 2026:
- Pre-filling Phase: 23 October — 7 December 2026 (until 20:00)
- Re-opening for Modifications: 9 December — 13 December 2026
- Click Day: 12 January 2027 for agriculture, 9 February 2027 for tourism
⚠️ Critical: Pre-filling is Mandatory
The pre-filling phase is mandatory for Click Day submission. Employers who do not pre-fill their forms cannot submit applications on Click Day. Modifications are only possible during the reopening period.
Application Deadlines & Archiving — Decreto Flussi Explained
Applications can be submitted until 31 December of each year, within the limits of available quotas.
📌 Important: Six-Month Archiving Rule
Applications not entered into quota within six months from 31 December of the reference year are automatically archived. Similarly, nulla osta that are not followed by visa issuance within the same period are archived.
📊 Decreto Flussi Quotas by Year & Sector
The Decreto Flussi 2026-2028 allocates quotas across different categories and sectors. Decreto Flussi explained through numbers — here is the complete breakdown:
| Category | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Entries | 164,850 | 165,850 | 166,850 |
| Seasonal Work (Total) | 88,000 | 89,000 | 90,000 |
| — Agriculture | 47,000 | 47,000 | 47,000 |
| — Tourism/Hospitality | 41,000 | 42,000 | 43,000 |
| Non-Seasonal Work | 76,200 | 76,200 | 76,200 |
| Family Assistance | 13,600 | 14,000 | 14,200 |
| Reserved Quotas | |||
| — For Previously Employed Workers | 5,000 | 6,000 | 7,000 |
| — Self-Employed Workers | 650 | 650 | 650 |
| — Refugees/Stateless | 300 | 300 | 300 |
Sources: DPCM 2 October 2025 (G.U. n. 240 of 15 October 2025), Joint Circular n. 8047 of 16 October 2025
Reserved Quotas for Previously Employed Workers — Decreto Flussi Explained
Workers who have previously worked seasonally in Italy benefit from reserved quotas that increase each year:
- 2026: 5,000 reserved spots
- 2027: 6,000 reserved spots
- 2028: 7,000 reserved spots
This means workers with prior Italian work experience have a significant advantage in securing a seasonal work permit. This is a key element of Decreto Flussi explained for returning workers.
Eligible Sectors for Non-Seasonal Work
Non-seasonal work is permitted in the following sectors:
- Agriculture, forestry, and fishing
- Food and beverage industries
- Textile, clothing, and footwear industries
- Metallurgical and metal products industries
- Construction
- Wholesale and retail trade
- Accommodation and food services
- Tourism services
- Transport, logistics, and warehousing
- Business and personal support services
- Healthcare and social assistance
- Other services
🌍 Eligible Countries for Italy Seasonal Work Visa 2026-2027 — Decreto Flussi Explained
Citizens of countries that have signed migration cooperation agreements with Italy are eligible to apply. Decreto Flussi explained in terms of eligibility: these are the countries covered:
Asia
- Bangladesh 🇧🇩, India 🇮🇳, Pakistan 🇵🇰, Sri Lanka 🇱🇰, Nepal 🇳🇵
- Philippines 🇵🇭, Japan 🇯🇵, South Korea 🇰🇷
- Uzbekistan 🇺🇿, Kyrgyzstan 🇰🇬, Georgia 🇬🇪, Jordan 🇯🇴, Thailand 🇹🇭
Africa
- Algeria 🇩🇿, Egypt 🇪🇬, Ethiopia 🇪🇹, Gambia 🇬🇲, Ghana 🇬🇭
- Mali 🇲🇱, Morocco 🇲🇦, Niger 🇳🇪, Nigeria 🇳🇬, Senegal 🇸🇳
- Sudan 🇸🇩, Tunisia 🇹🇳, Ivory Coast 🇨🇮, Mauritius 🇲🇺
Europe
- Albania 🇦🇱, Bosnia-Herzegovina 🇧🇦, Kosovo 🇽🇰, Moldova 🇲🇩
- Montenegro 🇲🇪, North Macedonia 🇲🇰, Serbia 🇷🇸, Ukraine 🇺🇦
Americas
- Ecuador 🇪🇨, El Salvador 🇸🇻, Guatemala 🇬🇹, Peru 🇵🇪
Citizens of countries with new migration agreements signed during the 2026-2028 triennium are also eligible under Decreto Flussi.
📝 Italy Seasonal Work Visa Application Process 2026-2027 — Decreto Flussi Explained
The application process under Decreto Flussi involves several steps. Decreto Flussi explained step by step:
Step 1: Employer Pre-fills the Application
The Italian employer pre-fills the application form (Model C-stag agricolo for agriculture or Model C-stag turismo for tourism) through the Portale ALI.
- Pre-filling Period: 23 October — 7 December annually
- Access: SPID digital identity or CIE (Electronic Identity Card)
- Portal: portaleservizi.dlci.interno.it
Step 2: Click Day Submission
Employers submit the application electronically on the designated Click Day.
- Agricultural Click Day: 12 January annually, 9:00 AM
- Tourism Click Day: 9 February annually, 9:00 AM
Step 3: Nulla Osta Processing
The Immigration Desk (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione) reviews the application. The procedural term begins from the date of quota allocation.
- Seasonal Workers: Priority processing, typically 20 days
- Non-Seasonal Workers: Typically 60 days
Step 4: Nulla Osta Issuance
Once approved, the Nulla Osta (work authorization) is issued. Applications not entered into quota within six months from 31 December of the reference year are automatically archived.
Step 5: Visa Application
The worker applies for the entry visa at the Italian embassy or consulate in their home country.
Step 6: Travel to Italy & Post-Arrival Formalities
Upon arrival, the worker must complete residence and work formalities.
⚠️ Important
Workers cannot apply independently. The Italian employer must submit the application through the Portale ALI. This is a critical aspect of Decreto Flussi explained for applicants.
📎 Required Documents for Italy Seasonal Work Visa — Decreto Flussi Explained
When applying for the Italy seasonal work visa under Decreto Flussi, the following documents are required:
Employer’s Documents:
- Valid ID/Passport of the employer
- Economic declaration (asseveration) from a certified professional
- Proof of minimum income (€20,000 for single-person households)
⚠️ Important
Requirements can vary by consulate. Always follow the current instructions of the competent Italian consular authority. This list is not exhaustive.
💰 Costs & Fees for Italy Seasonal Work Visa — Decreto Flussi Explained
- Application Fee: No direct application fee on ALI Portal
- Asseveration Fee: Varies by professional (lawyer/labor consultant)
- Visa Fee: Varies by country (typically €116 base fee plus consulate service fee)
- Residence Permit Fee: Varies (typically €80-100)
- Revenue Stamp (Marca da Bollo): €16
- Health Insurance: Minimum €30,000 coverage
Note: Employers typically bear the application costs. Workers generally pay visa and residence permit fees.
🌟 Benefits of the Italy Seasonal Work Visa Program — Decreto Flussi Explained
1. Legal Entry to Italy
The seasonal work visa provides a legal pathway to enter and work in Italy, one of Europe’s largest economies.
2. Multi-Year Permits for Returning Workers
Workers who have completed seasonal work in Italy for two consecutive years may be eligible for a multi-year nulla osta valid for up to 3 years. This is a significant benefit of Decreto Flussi explained for repeat applicants.
3. Reserved Quotas for Prior Workers
Workers with previous Italian work experience benefit from reserved quotas that increase each year (5,000 in 2026, 6,000 in 2027, 7,000 in 2028).
4. Pathway to Long-Term Employment
Seasonal workers can convert to permanent work visas if properly hired and within conversion quotas under the Decreto Flussi.
5. Growing Opportunities
Italy faces labor shortages due to an aging population and declining birth rates, creating high demand for foreign workers in agriculture, tourism, construction, and manufacturing.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Decreto Flussi Explained
Decreto Flussi is the Italian government’s annual Flow Decree that establishes quotas for non-EU workers permitted to enter Italy for employment. The 2026-2028 triennial program authorizes 497,550 foreign workers. Decreto Flussi explained simply: it’s Italy’s annual immigration quota system.
The Italy seasonal work visa is a temporary work permit for non-EU citizens to work in Italy’s agriculture or tourism sectors. It is part of the Decreto Flussi program.
The next Click Days are: 9 February 2026 for tourism/hospitality seasonal workers, 16 February 2026 for non-seasonal workers, and 18 February 2026 for family assistance workers.
For 2027, the schedule repeats: 12 January 2027 (agriculture), 9 February 2027 (tourism), 16 February 2027 (non-seasonal), and 18 February 2027 (family assistance).
Total entries for 2027: 165,850. Seasonal quotas: 89,000 (47,000 agriculture + 42,000 tourism). Reserved quotas for previously employed workers: 6,000.
Yes. Pakistan is on the eligible countries list for the Decreto Flussi program. Pakistani applicants must apply through the Italian Embassy in Islamabad or Consulate in Karachi.
Yes. Workers cannot apply independently. The Italian employer must submit the Nulla Osta application through the Portale ALI.
The Nulla Osta is the work authorization issued by the Italian Immigration Desk. It is required to apply for the entry visa. Decreto Flussi explained requires this as a mandatory step.
The seasonal work visa allows stay in Italy for the duration of the seasonal work contract, typically up to 9 months.
Yes. Workers who have worked seasonally in Italy for two consecutive years may be eligible for a multi-year nulla osta valid for up to 3 years.
Applications not entered into quota within six months from 31 December of the reference year are automatically archived. Similarly, nulla osta not followed by visa issuance within the same period are archived.
No. No one can guarantee visa approval. The decision rests with Italian authorities. Be cautious of agents promising guaranteed jobs or visas.
Key documents include: valid passport, Nulla Osta, work contract, proof of accommodation, criminal record certificate, health certificate, and health insurance.
For seasonal workers, the processing time is typically 20 days. For non-seasonal workers, it is typically 60 days.
Always refer to: Italian Ministry of Interior, Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Italian embassy/consulate in your country.
🔗 Official Sources — Decreto Flussi Explained
For the most current and accurate information, always refer to official Italian government sources:
- Italian Ministry of Interior: www.interno.gov.it — Decreto Flussi
- Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: www.esteri.it/en/
- Italian Embassy/Consulate: The embassy or consulate in your home country
- Official Portal ALI: portaleservizi.dlci.interno.it
- Gazzetta Ufficiale: Official Gazette of the Italian Republic
- Italian Ministry of Labour: www.lavoro.gov.it
📌 Editorial Disclaimer: Information on this page is for general informational purposes and may change. Always verify current requirements with official Italian authorities before submitting an application. Processing times can vary depending on the application, employer, immigration office, Italian consulate, appointment availability, document verification and other factors. Global Work Path does not guarantee visa approval.
Last Updated: 14 August 2026
Sources: DPCM 2 October 2025 (G.U. n. 240 of 15 October 2025), Joint Circular n. 8047 of 16 October 2025
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