For a non-EU professional the choice is narrower than usual. A work permit needs an employer in Italy, so a contractor agreement is not an option. The real choice is between an Employer of Record and your own Italian company.
| Employer of Record | Your own Italian entity | Contractor | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can sponsor a work permit | Yes, as employer | Yes, once registered and operating | No |
| Time to start | The permit timeline only | Incorporation, bank and registrations first, then the permit | - |
| Who signs the stay contract | We do | Your Italian company | - |
| Your obligations in Italy | None | Payroll, filings, accounts, year end | Not applicable to a visa holder |
| Monthly cost | Employment cost + €250 | Employment cost + local accounting and payroll | - |
When the Italian team is large and stable or you need a legal presence for sales. We transfer employees without a break in their employment history, and the permit is updated with the new employer. In the first 12 months of a Blue Card, the change needs the labour office's prior approval.
If the person works only for you, on your schedule, the arrangement risks reclassification as employment, with back contributions and penalties. And their own permit may not allow it. Moving to an Italian employment contract fixes both.