Organizations advocating for migrant rights are calling on the Italian government to urgently reform its current work permit system, arguing that the existing rules are insufficient and leave many migrants without opportunities, as reported by Schengen.News.
Tavolo Asilo e Immigrazione (TAI), a coalition of various groups, sent a formal letter to the office of the prime minister highlighting concerns about the inefficiency, inadequacy, and risks posed by the current system. The letter urges the government to replace the existing framework with more inclusive and effective policies.
The letter was submitted just ahead of the “click days,” during which Italian employers can request work permits for foreign workers. Each year, Italy establishes a cap on the number of non-EU workers allowed to enter the country. However, TAI argues that these quotas fall short of meeting the demand for labor.
The group’s concern stemmed from the February 5 “click day,” when all 25,000 available spots were filled within just four minutes. TAI criticized the lottery-based system, which, they claim, excludes many foreign workers already residing in Italy.
To improve the system, TAI has proposed several measures. They recommend that the government allow employers to hire foreign workers without strict quotas and remove nationality and sector-based restrictions. The group also suggests introducing new pathways for foreign workers to enter Italy, such as through job-seeking visas or employer sponsorships.
Additionally, TAI advocates for granting migrants the right to remain in Italy while searching for new employment if they lose their jobs due to circumstances beyond their control. Other proposals include allowing foreign workers with valid permits to apply for different jobs, permitting the conversion of any residence permit into a work permit, and speeding up the work permit process by increasing staff.
