Italy hires thousands of foreign workers every year through an official quota system known as the Decreto Flussi. This system sets the number of non-EU workers who can legally enter Italy for seasonal and non-seasonal employment. Because demand is high and quotas fill quickly, workers and employers closely follow the yearly opening dates.

Understanding when Italy opens its quotas helps foreign workers plan their applications and increases their chances of securing a legal job offer.

What Is the Decreto Flussi?

The Decreto Flussi (Flow Decree) is the Italian government’s annual program that authorizes how many foreign workers can be admitted to Italy for work. It includes:

• Non-seasonal work permits

• Seasonal work permits

• Self-employment quotas

• Conversions of existing permits into work permits

Each year, the government decides how many foreign workers are needed based on labor market shortages, employer requests, and economic needs.

When Does Italy Usually Open the Quotas?

Italy typically opens its work quotas once a year, usually between January and April, depending on when the government publishes the decree.

In recent years, the timeline has been:

• 2023 Quotas: Announced in January 2023

• 2024 Quotas: Released in early 2024 (January window)

• 2025 Quotas: Expected around January–March, following the same trend

The decree is published in Italy’s Official Gazette. Once published, the government sets specific dates for:

• Application opening day

• Submission deadlines

• Categories allowed

• Quota numbers

Employers must submit applications for workers as soon as the portal opens because quotas fill very quickly.

Why Does the Opening Date Change Each Year?

The date depends on several factors:

• Government planning and approval timing

• Labor shortages in sectors such as agriculture, construction, tourism, caregiving

• Seasonal employment requirements

• Budget decisions

• Immigration policy changes

Although the exact date is not fixed, Italy generally keeps the quota release within the same period each year.

How the Quota System Works

1. Government publishes the Decreto Flussi.

2. Application portal opens on the announced date.

3. Employers submit requests for foreign workers.

4. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. If approved, the worker receives a Nulla Osta (work authorization).

6. The worker applies for an Italian work visa at the embassy.

Because quotas are limited, timing and correct documentation are critical.

Which Workers Are Included in Italy’s Quotas?

The Decreto Flussi usually covers:

• Seasonal workers: agriculture, tourism, hospitality

• Non-seasonal workers: construction, manufacturing, transport, caregiving

• Self-employed professionals

• Conversions: students to workers, seasonal to non-seasonal, permit to permit

The number of slots for each category varies annually.

Why It Is Important to Apply Early

Italy’s quotas often fill within hours or days after opening because:

• Employers pre-prepare documents

• Large recruitment agencies submit bulk applications

• High demand across multiple countries

Workers have better chances when their employers submit applications immediately after the portal opens.

Final Summary

Italy opens its work quotas once a year through the Decreto Flussi, typically between January and April. This program sets the number of foreign workers allowed to enter Italy legally for seasonal and non-seasonal jobs. The exact opening date changes each year, but early preparation is essential because quotas fill very fast.