Questions we get every week
Short answers for professionals and for the companies that employ them. Every case is different: ask us about yours.
Permits
Why do I need an Italian employer?
The work authorisation (nulla osta) is requested by an employer in Italy. A company abroad with no Italian entity cannot easily file it. As Employer of Record we are that employer.
Blue Card or quota permit?
Blue Card if you have a three-year degree (or qualifying experience), a contract of at least six months and a salary at or above the threshold. Otherwise the quota route. See visa routes.
What is the Blue Card salary threshold?
The ISTAT average gross annual salary, and never below the CCNL level. Reported at about €36,300 [official figure to confirm].
How fast is the nulla osta?
For the Blue Card the law sets 30 days from the application. Consular and arrival steps come on top.
Are there quotas for the Blue Card?
No. The 2026 quotas (43,300 non-seasonal entries) apply to ordinary work permits.
Can I change employer?
With a Blue Card, in the first 12 months only with prior approval of the labour office (deemed granted after 15 days). Then freely.
I have a Blue Card in another EU country. Can I move?
You can work in Italy up to 90 days in 180. After 12 months in the first country you can move to Italy without a visa, with a work authorisation filed within a month of entry.
Family and relocation
When can my family join?
Blue Card holders can apply whatever the length of their permit. Income and housing conditions apply: see family reunification.
Can my spouse work?
The family permit can be converted into a work permit when the conditions are met. [confirm direct work rights on the family permit]
Do you help with housing?
Yes, as part of the relocation service, quoted per case.
Costs
What does the employer pay?
€250 per month plus the actual employment cost, and €2,500 per visa case.
Which currencies?
EUR, or USD at the EUR reference rate with no FX spread.
How much more than salary?
Employer contributions around 30%, plus 13th month and TFR. Use the calculator.
Is there a deposit?
One month's estimated cost, plus the first month in advance.
Employment
Is it a real Italian contract?
Yes, under the CCNL of the sector, with the same rights as any employee in Italy.
Do I need private health insurance?
Residents with a work permit enrol in the national health service. Some CCNLs add a supplementary fund.
Who owns my work?
The company you work for: our contracts include an IP assignment and confidentiality clause in its favour.
What if the company later opens an Italian entity?
We transfer you without loss of seniority. Your permit is updated with the new employer.