The primary goal is to fill a labor gap that would otherwise hinder the smooth operation of these vital economic sectors. But beyond addressing immediate employment needs, the policy also aims to establish a stable and controlled system that facilitates formal agreements with the countries of origin. In doing so, it seeks to curb irregular immigration, undeclared work, and labor exploitation through legal and structured entry pathways.
By enacting this decree, the Italian government is responding to a dual urgency: quickly addressing the workforce shortage that threatens the competitiveness and functionality of tourism and agriculture—especially during peak seasons—and promoting an orderly migration policy. Regulating these flows will not only temporarily relieve pressure on these sectors but also lay the foundation for a smarter and more institutionalized migration management system.
In many parts of Italy, the tourism season is synonymous with economic prosperity, mobility, and cultural activity. Yet, when staffing falls short, the entire experience suffers: slower service, bottlenecks in hospitality and food services, and limited capacity to accommodate visitors. In agriculture, the absence of seasonal workers can lead to unharvested crops, wasted produce, and significant financial losses. The allocation of seasonal visas directly responds to these pressing issues, while the distinction between seasonal and non-seasonal employment allows for a more tailored approach to real market needs.
This measure also provides employers with a clear and regulated mechanism for hiring foreign talent—especially crucial in areas grappling with low birth rates or aging populations. Streamlining and formalizing foreign labor integration also promotes greater social inclusion and helps bridge the gap between labor supply and demand. Strengthening partnerships with labor-sending countries further enhances the capacity to build more effective and humane migration models.
Moreover, this decision marks a major advance in the fight against informal labor networks. By offering legal access to employment, the government is reinforcing labor transparency and safeguarding workers against exploitation, precarious conditions, or discrimination. The formalization of labor not only improves working conditions but also boosts tax revenue by bringing more individuals into the social security system.
The authorization of 500,000 work visas—164,850 in 2026 and 335,150 over 2027 and 2028—of which 230,550 are for non-seasonal or self-employed positions and 267,000 for seasonal jobs in tourism and agriculture, represents an ambitious and multifaceted response to a structural challenge. Beyond addressing short-term needs, the decree seeks to establish a more organized and sustainable immigration model, aligning economic development with labor justice and migration control.
