Italy wants to ban chips for immigrants without residence permits

The party Brothers of Italy, led by the Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, has presented a bill that aims to restrict the use of SIM cards, or cell phone chips, by immigrants who do not have residence permits, arguing that this would increase transparency in the control of communications.

However, the proposal has generated controversy, with critics warning of the negative impact on immigrants in vulnerable situations.

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The proposal was presented by deputies Giovanni Donzelli and Francesco Michelotti during the debate on the new Security Bill. According to them, “ghost SIM cards” are used by unidentifiable individuals, and the ban would bring more clarity to the system. In addition, the measure provides for punishments of six months to two years for those who facilitate the irregular use of telephone chips.

Critical opposition

Parties such as +Europe and the Five Star Movement criticized the measure, saying it would make communication difficult for vulnerable migrants, preventing them from seeking employment or documents. Stefania Ascari, from Five Star Movement, stated that the law “would legalize a ghost condition” for these immigrants, worsening their social exclusion.

The measure could make life difficult for more than five million foreigners who already live in Italy without a residence permit. (Photo: Depositphotos)