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Sri Lankan expat working in office with work permit and who sends money home via ACE Money Transfer

How Can Sri Lankans Get Work Permits in Italy?

23 Jan 2025


Also known as a D-Visa, an Italian work visa is a long-stay visa that immigrants from non-European nations need to work in Italy. Many Sri Lankans who are staying and working in Italy also send money from Italy to Sri Lanka regularly. However, their work visas can be different in duration depending upon their employment contract. Other than a work permit, you might also require a residence permit, and the visa processing usually takes about a month. Keep reading this blog to find out about different types of work permits and how to apply for them:

It’s essential to ensure all your documents are in order to avoid delays in the visa process. Understanding the requirements and timelines for both work and residence permits can save you time and stress. Additionally, knowing the best ways to manage your finances abroad, such as securely sending money back home, can help you support your family efficiently.

Types of Work Permits for Non-European Immigrants in Italy

Depending on the nature of your work and your employer, one of these permits would be needed to work in Italy. Familiarize yourself with the application process and gather all necessary documents beforehand. After securing your work permit, you can explore reliable remittance services to send money home. With platforms like ACE Money Transfer, you can transfer funds to Sri Lanka quickly, safely, and at competitive rates.

Once you land the work permit, it will be easy for you to earn in Italy and be able to send money to Sri Lanka from Italy easily:

Standard National Employment Visa (D-Visa)

If you have been offered a full-time job in Italy, a Standard employment visa or a D-visa will suit you best. This visa lasts two years, after which you can renew it for up to five years. 

Extra-quota Employment Visa

Certain professions often do not qualify for any particular employment visa and aren’t covered by the Decreto Flussi either. This is when an extra-quota employment visa comes in handy, as it is also available for interpreters, athletes, artists, nurses, and journalists. 

 

In case you didn’t know, Decreto Flussi is an Italian government law determining the number of non-European citizens staying in Italy for work. This number is set annually and part of Italy's immigration regulation mechanism. 

Seasonal Work Visa

A seasonal work visa is a nine-month-long visa suitable for specific sectors such as construction, agriculture, and tourism, and the Decreto Flussi quotas cover it.

 

EU Blue Card

This card is for highly skilled non-EU workers and is valid for almost all European countries, including Italy. Your employer or a legal entity must submit a request to the Prefettura of the appropriate province. If it is accepted, you’ll get an EU Blue Card. 


Self-employment Visa

Sri Lankans who want to start a business in Italy or move their existing business to Italy can apply for a self-employment visa valid for about 2 years. In Italy, you can also send money online to Sri Lanka from Italy through widely trusted money transfer service providers such as ACE Money Transfer.

 

Documents Needed for a Work Permit

Following is the list of documents you might need for a work permit:

  • Signed employment contract (copy)
  • Original Work authorization request called Nulla Osta and a copy
  • A valid passport and passport pictures
  • A filled visa application form
  • Proof of residence
  • Qualifying certificates 
  • Travel reservations
  • Medical Insurance 

Application Process for an Italian Work Permit

Once you get a job offer, you must submit a work authorization request called Nulla Osta to the Italian Immigration Office. This will confirm a need for foreign labor in that specific job sector. After the approval of the nulla osta, you can apply for a work visa at the Italian Embassy in Sri Lanka. This is where you’ll need those documents listed above. 

You must also remember to apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within a week of arriving in Italy. For this purpose, submit your biometric data and paperwork to the immigration office.

From Work Permit to Wallet: Remit Money to Sri Lanka Made Easy

Getting a work permit in Italy is difficult, but it is possible with proper guidance. Once you successfully get a work permit and land in Italy, you can easily save money and send money to Sri Lanka online from Italy through online remittance service providers like ACE Money Transfer -  a secure, speedy, and reliable service provider. Try our mobile application for convenient remittance transfers from the comfort of your home. 


 

FAQs

What is the first step to getting a work permit in Italy?

The first step is to secure a job offer from an Italian employer, who will then submit a work authorization request (nulla osta) to the Italian Immigration Office.

Can I apply for a work visa directly from Sri Lanka?

Once your work authorization is approved, you can apply for a work visa at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in Sri Lanka with the necessary documents, such as your passport and medical insurance.

How long does it take to process a work visa for Italy?

The visa process can take a few weeks, so it is advisable to apply well before your expected travel date to avoid delays.

What is the Permesso di soggiorno, and why do I need it?

The Permesso di Soggiorno is a residence permit that allows you to legally live and work in Italy. It must be applied for within eight days of arriving in Italy.

Where can I apply for the Permesso di Soggiorno?

You can apply for a residence permit at your local post office or immigration office in Italy by submitting the required paperwork and biometric data.


 


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