Italy’s New Migration Quota Decree (2026–2028): a Step Toward a More Flexible System

Aug 12, 2025

A Decree to match labor demand

The newly approved draft of the “Decreto Flussi” (Quota Decree) for 2026–2028 outlines a renewed quota system for foreign workers and hints at a broader reform aimed at making the process more efficient and responsive to labor market needs.

Under the new decree, 164,850 entry quotas are set for 2026, with increases of 1,000 units each in 2027 and 2028. The quotas cover both seasonal and non-seasonal workers and have received preliminary approval from the United Conference of the Regions on July 31^st. The draft is currently under review by the Italian Parliament’s commissions, which will have to finalize it within 30 days.

Beyond the numbers, the government is signalling a strategic shift. Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano noted that although entirely abandoning quotas seems unlikely. The evident limitations shown by the current click-day model need to be rethought, with the government expressing the intention to allow work visa applications to be submitted outside of fixed quotas and timeframes, in order to make the system more accessible and predictable.

The Decree’s measures

While the decree doesn’t introduce radical changes, it strengthens and expands measures already in place, including:

• Extra-quota entry for trained non-EU workers: Already active under previous measures, this route allows foreign nationals who complete certified training and language programs abroad to enter Italy outside of quota limits. Over 50 projects are currently running in more than 20 countries.
• Permit conversions: Thanks to recent legislative updates, foreign nationals can convert residence permits (e.g., for study or training) into residence permits for work without being subject to quotas.
• Simplified procedures for elder care and domestic work: Introduced experimentally in 2024 for workers assisting the elderly and people with disabilities, this measure is expected to become permanent and quota-free.

The government is also considering a new extra-quota channel for “high-demand professionals”, to complement existing routes such as the EU Blue Card, intra-company assignments and other extra-quota entry possibilities.

With this reform, Italy might take a step forward toward a more flexible, targeted, and responsive migration system — one that aligns better with the real demands of its economy and labor market at a national and regional level.

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