Service Agreement Assignment in Italy

Work Permits in Italy: The Annual Quota System

Non-EU nationals must obtain a work permit (Nulla Osta) to legally work in Italy. Work permits in Italy generally follow an annual quota system set by the Italian government through the Decreto Flussi. This decree establishes the maximum number of permits for each worker category and specifies when applications can be submitted. Authorities typically issue permits on a first-come, first-served basis.

However, certain categories of work permits, such as the Intra Company Transfer (ICT) permit and the EU Blue Card, are exceptions to the quota system. The authorities can issue these permits at any time of the year, regardless of the annual limits.

The Service Agreement Assignment : Non-Quota Work Permit

This work permit applies to foreign employees temporarily posted to Italy to carry out services or activities under a service agreement between their foreign employer and an Italian company.

• If the sending employer is based in an EU country, a fast-track procedure is available.
• Employees who hold a valid work permit and are locally hired in another EU country can be assigned to Italy under a service agreement, without the need for an Italian work permit. In this case, the Italian host company must simply notify the local Immigration Office.

Assignments under this scheme can be granted for up to four years, offering a stable and extended period of work in Italy.

Foreign companies posting employees to Italy under a service agreement are subject to the obligations outlined in Legislative Decree No. 136/2016, which implements the EU Posted Workers Directive (2014/67). These obligations include:

• Submitting a posted worker notification (notifica di distacco)
• Retaining required documentation
• Appointing a legal representative in Italy

Application Procedure for the Service Agreement Work Permit and Residence Permit

While the exact steps may vary slightly depending on the case, the general procedure includes the following:

• Work Permit Application (Nulla Osta)
  Submitted online by the Italian host company to the local Immigration Office (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione).
• Visa Application (Visto)
  Once the Nulla Osta is issued, the worker applies for a visa at the Italian Consulate with jurisdiction over their residence.
• Entry and Registration in Italy
  Within 8 days of entering Italy, the worker must appear at the Immigration Office to sign the contract of stay (contratto di soggiorno) and/or submit the application for the residence permit (permesso di soggiorno).
• Issuance of Residence Permit
  After submitting the residence permit application, a second appointment will be scheduled for biometric data collection (fingerprints). Once completed, the Police will issue the final permit.

Our Services for The Service Agreement Assignment Residence Permit

We assist clients throughout every stage of the process, from the initial work permit application to the final issuance of the residence permit. Through our network of over 100 local consultants, we provide in-person support across major Italian cities, ensuring each application is complete and professionally prepared for maximum approval success.

Request a Free Quote

If you are looking for an expert support for your immigration process in Italy, contact us for an initial consultation and price quote by filling out our online form. Our immigration consultants will reach out to you shortly via email. Please note that, for complex issues, a consultation fee may apply for the initial assessment and schedule a call with one of our immigration specialists.

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