Introduction
The Annual Flow Decree visa 📈 (in Italian: Decreto Flussi) is the main program through which the Italian government regulates how many foreign citizens can legally enter the country for work each year.
This system allows non-EU citizens to apply for a work visa 👩💼👨🔧 (seasonal or non-seasonal) based on fixed quotas.
In this guide, we’ll cover requirements, step-by-step procedure, required documents, and especially the official quotas for 2025–2028.
What is the Annual Flow Decree?
The Annual Flow Decree 🏛️ is published each year in the Official Gazette and determines:
- The maximum number of foreign workers allowed in Italy.
- Which countries are eligible.
- Which types of work are included (subordinate, seasonal, self-employment).
📌 It is Italy’s main migration management tool for employment.
Types of work allowed
With the Annual Flow Decree visa you can work in Italy in:
- Non-seasonal employment 🧑💼: industry, construction, transport, domestic care.
- Seasonal work 🌾: agriculture, tourism, hospitality.
- Self-employment 💼: limited and with strict requirements.
Quotas 2025–2028
Italy has approved a multi-year quota plan.
📊 Official numbers:
- 2025: 181,450 total entries
- 70,720 for non-seasonal subordinate work
- 730 for self-employment
- 110,000 for seasonal work
- 2026: 164,850 entries
- 2027: 165,850 entries
- 2028: 166,850 entries
👉 From 2026 to 2028, about 497,550 entries are planned: ~230,550 for non-seasonal and self-employment, and ~267,000 for seasonal work.
⚠️ Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and close when quotas are reached ⏳.
Requirements for the Annual Flow Decree visa
To apply, you need:
- An Italian employer willing to hire.
- Work authorization (nulla osta) submitted by the employer.
- Personal documents (valid passport, certificates).
- Work contract or official job offer 📑.
- Proof of suitable accommodation provided by the employer.
Step-by-step procedure
- The Annual Flow Decree is published in the Official Gazette.
- The Italian employer applies online for work authorization 🖥️.
- Immigration Office verifies and issues the nulla osta.
- The worker applies for the visa at the Italian consulate in their country.
- Once in Italy, the worker must apply for a residence permit for work within 8 days.
⏳ Average processing time: 2–4 months.
Required documents
- Valid passport 📕
- Work authorization (nulla osta)
- Copy of work contract
- Employer’s residence certificate
- Proof of accommodation
- Passport photos
Benefits of the Annual Flow Decree visa
- Access to the Italian labor market ✅
- Eligibility for a long-term residence permit after 5 years
- Family reunification 👨👩👧
- Opportunity to build a stable career in Italy
Common mistakes ❌
- Applying too late, when quotas are already full.
- Submitting incomplete or untranslated documents.
- No proof of accommodation.
- Believing a visa can be obtained without an Italian employer 🚫.
Practical tips 💡
- Check the click day (application opening date) well in advance.
- Prepare all documents before the decree is published.
- Seek help from immigration experts to avoid formal errors.
- If unsuccessful, consider alternatives (EU Blue Card, self-employment, elective residence).
Conclusion
The Annual Flow Decree visa (Decreto Flussi) is the main legal entry route for foreign workers 📈. The 2025–2028 quotas highlight Italy’s focus on agriculture, tourism, and essential industries, offering thousands of opportunities.
With proper preparation, documentation, and professional assistance 👩⚖️👨⚖️, the Annual Flow Decree visa can be your gateway to living and working legally in Italy.
