Annual Flow Decree visa for Italy: complete guide

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:

1. An Italian employer willing to hire.
2. Work authorization (nulla osta) submitted by the employer.
3. Personal documents (valid passport, certificates).
4. Work contract or official job offer 📑.
5. Proof of suitable accommodation provided by the employer.

Step-by-step procedure

1. The Annual Flow Decree is published in the Official Gazette.
2. The Italian employer applies online for work authorization 🖥️.
3. Immigration Office verifies and issues the nulla osta.
4. The worker applies for the visa at the Italian consulate in their country.
5. 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.