Italy’s approach to migration is undergoing another major shift. On Wednesday, November 18, the Lower House of Parliament approved a new set of measures linked to government decree No. 146 — a package that will shape the country’s immigration system between 2026 and 2028.
As someone who’s followed these debates for years, I can tell you that the latest updates to the Decreto Flussi aim to streamline processes, tighten certain rules, and create new pathways for foreign workers.
A Quick Snapshot of the Vote
| Measure | Measures apply to the 2026–2028 period |
| Legal entry of foreign workers, residence permits, and family reunification | 131 in favor, 75 against, 7 abstentions |
| Scope | Legal entry of foreign workers, residence permits, family reunification |
| Timeline | Measures apply to 2026–2028 period |
The approval marks the first reading of the legislation. Further steps in the parliamentary process will follow, but this vote sets the tone for Italy’s migration policy in the coming years.
Key Changes to Residence Permits and Work Entry
One of the most significant updates in the new Decreto Flussi is the effort to simplify — or at least restructure — the pathway for foreign nationals seeking work in Italy.
Faster Processing Times
A 30-day deadline has been introduced for issuing a work permit once an application is submitted. For many migrants, this is a welcome change after years of long waits.
Extended Visa Request Period
Foreign nationals completing training or educational programs in their home countries can now submit a visa application up to December 31, 2027, thanks to an experimental extension.
Caregivers Outside the Annual Quotas
Italy is maintaining a special provision allowing up to 10,000 foreign caregivers to enter the country outside the standard annual quotas.
These workers may assist:
- People with disabilities
- The elderly
- Children under six
This exemption has been extended until 2028, reflecting Italy’s growing need for caregivers.
Longer Protection for Exploited Workers and Victims
The decree also expands protections for vulnerable groups.
Extended Residence Permits
Residence permits for:
- victims of trafficking
- victims of serious labor exploitation
- victims of gangmastering
…have been extended from 6 months to 1 year. These permits can also be prolonged for employment purposes, giving victims more stability as they rebuild their lives.
Inclusion in Anti-Exploitation Committees
Recognized religious organizations can now participate in committees that combat exploitation in agriculture—an important move considering how widespread labor abuses are in certain sectors.
Access to Italy’s “Inclusion Cheque”
Foreign nationals holding protection-related residence permits, including domestic violence victims, can apply for the country’s anti-poverty Assegno di Inclusione.
Volunteer Programs: A New Three-Year Quota System
Foreigners admitted for volunteer programs will now be counted under a three-year quota instead of an annual one.
This is meant to help organizations plan long-term and reduce administrative delays.
Work Permit Quotas for 2026–2028
Under the new Decreto Flussi 2026–2028, a total of 497,550 foreign workers from third countries will be allowed entry to Italy for seasonal, non-seasonal, and self-employment purposes.
Work visa consulting
| Year | Number of Foreign Workers Admitted |
| 2026 | 164,850 |
| 2027 | 165,850 |
| 2028 | 166,850 |
Stricter Family Reunification Rules Backed by the League
The more controversial part of the package concerns family reunification. Members of the League (Lega) successfully pushed for several tougher measures.
What’s Changing?
Alignment with EU Directive 2003/86/EC
The government is committed to tightening:
- The categories of family members who can join migrants in Italy
- The income requirements necessary for reunification
Under EU rules, member states can adopt stricter criteria, and the League is urging Italy to do just that.
Longer Processing Time
The timeframe for issuing a family reunification permit has increased from 90 to 150 days.
Residence Permit Renewal Can Be Refused
A new provision states that violating tax or social security obligations can lead to the non-renewal of a residence permit.
Special Protection Permits
Another approved measure allows the government to introduce an annual duration for special protection permits, reversing recent trends toward longer periods.
These proposals were originally part of the Decreto Flussi but were later reshaped into “orders of the day” to be inserted into the next available security-related law package.
What These Changes Mean Going Forward
The updated Decreto Flussi reflects a dual approach:
- Facilitating legal work entry, especially in sectors where Italy faces shortages
- Tightening control over family reunification and residence permit eligibility
For migrants, employers, and advocacy groups, the coming months will be crucial as these measures progress through Italy’s legislative process and begin shaping immigration flows for 2026–2028.