your 3 options

1. Firstly, we have the Permesso per Attesa Occupazione (Permit for Awaiting Employment). This form of Permesso is the simplest option for new graduates and can be requested by any non-EU citizens who have already obtained a qualification in Italy (doctorate, master, three-year degree, or a higher technical diploma). Applications can be made before the expiry of the current student Permesso following registration with the Employment Office, allowing graduates to seek employment or start a business activity in Italy within the subsequent 12 months.

2. Up next is the Permesso per Lavoro Subordinato (Permit for Employment). This one is valid for up to 2-years (depending on your work contract), but requires a formal employment contract that is duly registered by your Italian company / employer (no freelancing here, unfortunately). This type of Permesso is ideal for students who have received a formal job offer, either straight out of school, or during their subsequent year under the Permesso per Attesa Occupazione.

3. Finally, we have the Permesso per Lavoro Autonomo (Permit for Self Employment). This application requires that individuals have either (a) incorporated a business in Italy, or (b) registered as self employed with a Partita IVA. Starting an activity can be tempting if you haven’t found a job HOWEVER operating any business activity in Italy is an infamously complex and costly responsibility that will require a licensed commercialista (accountant) to ensure legal conformity across all relevant bodies (Agenzia Entrate, Camera di Commercio and INPS). Furthermore, individuals must consider the financial viability of any potential business activity as the administrative costs and mandatory INPS (social security contributions) are substantial and may exceed the income of the business. For example, a self-employed artisan who has invoiced no clients, will still have to pay his accountancy and administration costs, as well as the minimum INPS contributions of €4,208.40 [4,200.96 IVS +7.44 maternity] per year. Furthermore, individuals with a Partita IVA are liable for Italian income tax on ALL global income, which should be cost factored for those who receive funds from abroad.

how to apply

If you’re converting a Permesso di Soggiorno, you’ll be somewhat familiar with part of the process already…

Applying for any Permesso di Soggiorno requires the individual to firstly submit the infamous Permesso Kit at a Poste Italiane branch, with a follow-up meeting at the Questura for the issuance of the Permesso Card.

If you’re applying for the Permesso per Attesa Occupazione, completing the Permesso Kit requires for the individual to be registered at their local employment office and to demonstrate; completion of the associated educational course in Italy, valid health insurance for the upcoming year, self-sufficient funds, and proof of domicile address (to be later verified by the Questura).

Things are a little more complicated when applying for either a Permesso per Lavoro Subordinato or Permesso per Lavoro Autonomo - both of which require the individual to be properly registered as either; an employee or freelancer, with the respective labour office.

If you are a duly employed by an Italian company, they will be able to provide you with the required documentation to supplement your Permesso Kit application (which our Support Team can complete and submit for you…in Italian!).

If you intend to operate as a freelancer, you will need to register the activity, obtain a VAT number, and conform with the associated tax and INPS requirements (for which you will require a licensed ‘commercialista’). For assistance in assembling and submitting the required declarations to obtain a Permesso per Lavoro Autonomo, we suggest contacting our Support Centre for specialist assistance.

some things to remember…

• A Permesso di Soggiorno can NOT be converted where the individuals current Permesso has already expired. Instead, they will need to return to their home country and apply for a new visa at an Italian embassy or consulate.

• Graduates seeking a Permesso per Attesa Occupazione will need to visit their local employment office to obtain a ‘DID’ before submitting their Permesso Kit.

• Questura appointments can be slow… Don’t be surprised if you’re waiting several months after submitting your Permesso Kit - just keep hold of your Post Office receipt!

• There are several additional forms of specialised Permesso not discussed for the purposes of this article. These specifically cover; minors, family reunifications, medical stays, social protection for vulnerable persons, scientific research, and certain voluntary works.

Appointment anxiety? apply with the support centre

While it’s possible to obtain a Permesso di Soggiorno on your own, many international students and expats find it helpful to have someone with experience and knowledge of the Italian system handle the application process for them. Our Support Services are designed to make your life in Italy easier and more convenient. Contact us today to learn more about our Support Services and how we can help you get your Permesso quickly and hassle-free.