Living and working in Italy is the goal of many Brazilians, but obtaining a visa can be a major challenge for those coming from outside the European Union.
With one of the highest unemployment rates in the EU, the country is taking measures to protect the internal market, prioritizing jobs for Italians and Europeans. Even so, there are legal ways to work in Italy, even as a citizen of a country outside the bloc.
Next, see the main types of work visas available in 2026.
Visa based on quotas (Fossi decree)
Italy's quota system, called flows decreeThe UK annually releases a limited number of visas for non-European foreigners. In 2026, the government plans to release 164.850 permits, with a further 332.700 expected by 2028.
Although the number may seem high, most vacancies are in sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, home care, and heavy industry. Furthermore, the Italian employer must submit the application. Vacancies typically fill up within minutes, in what is known as [unclear/incomplete sentence]. click day.
Also included in this decree is the visa for self-employed individuals. In 2026, only 650 will be granted, some of which are reserved for citizens of specific countries.
Visa for digital nomads
Launched in April 2024, the digital nomad visa opened up a new possibility for remote workers. To apply, it is necessary to prove an annual income of at least €25.000, have health insurance, a university degree or equivalent experience, and a place to live in Italy.
Although the requirements seem manageable, consulates are free to impose additional criteria. One of the first approved candidates described the process as "hell."
This visa is not subject to flows decree.
EU Blue Card
Created in 2009, the Blue Card allows highly qualified professionals to work in Italy. Requirements include: a university degree, a job offer with a minimum duration of six months, a salary of at least €35.500, and recognition of qualifications in Italy.
The employer is the one who requests the initial document (clearance), which can take up to 90 days to be issued.
Visa for internal company transfer
Article 27 of the Italian Immigration Law allows exceptions outside the quota system, such as the ICT visa (intra-company transfer). It is aimed at those who have already been working for at least three months in a company with a branch in Italy.
Since 2023, a new type of visa has also been available for workers from companies with headquarters or subsidiaries in Italy. The visa is valid for up to one year, with a possible extension to three years for managers and specialists.
Other exceptions include teachers, researchers, translators, interpreters, foreign journalists, artists, and entertainment professionals.
Visas for investors and entrepreneurs
The investor visa allows legal entry into Italy with a minimum investment of €250.000. start-up€500.000 in a limited company, €1 million in a philanthropic project, or €2 million in government bonds.
You don't need to be a full-time resident of Italy, and payment only needs to be made three months after your visa is approved.
Entrepreneurs can also apply for a start-up visa, requiring initial capital of €50.000 to start an innovative business or €100.000 to enter a [new business/industry]. start-up already existing.
More information can be found on the website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Visa for Italo-descendants (Tajani Decree)
Starting in 2026, Italy will have a new work visa aimed exclusively at descendants of ItaliansThe detailed rules will be released in February, according to an announcement by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
The visa is part of the implementation of the so-called Tajani Decree, approved in March and enacted into law in May 2025. It provides for facilitated entry for descendants of Italians who have citizenship in countries with a strong presence of Italian emigrants, outside the traditional migration quota system.
Based on data from the AIRE registry up to December 31, 2024, seven countries were included: Brazil, Argentina, the United States, Australia, Canada, Venezuela, and Uruguay.
The main new development is that there will be no limit on the number of residency permits for these citizens. After two years of legal residency in Italy, it will be possible to apply for Italian citizenship through facilitated naturalization.
This measure is part of the policy of recovery from italian rootwhich seeks to strengthen ties with descendants of Italians abroad and reduce the volume of lawsuits related to the recognition of citizenship by descent.
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