09 Aug 2024
Over 22,000 Gambians have moved to Italy for work, benefiting from its thriving job market and strong economic opportunities. Mastering the Italian language and understanding the local work culture is crucial for professional success and personal integration in Italy. Financial management, including understanding taxes and using reliable money transfer services, is essential for Gambian professionals navigating life in Italy.
Did you know that 22,840 Gambians have already moved to Italy for work? Italy is a land of rich history and a flourishing job market which makes it the absolute choice for Gambian migrants. They get to earn more in euros which allows them to send money to Gambia from Italy for financial support of their families. While most Gambian professionals do find monetary success in Italy, the process can be a bit challenging. Keep reading this guide to learn how you can seamlessly blend into the work culture of Italy.
Italy is a country that offers a broad palette of opportunities in a plethora of sectors including manufacturing, fashion, and technology. However, the most important factor is to understand where your expertise fits as it will decide your first step towards your success in Italy.
The best way to identify the right sector for you is to research. Northern Italy is the industrial powerhouse as it hosts the top-notch automotive, machinery, and fashion industries. Whereas, southern Italy is considered more laid back. The opportunities that you will find here are more related to tourism and agriculture. Gambians who are professionals in technology can find a plethora of opportunities in Milan, as it hosts several thriving start-ups and ventures.
One of the best ways to open up doors of opportunities in Italy is to master proficiency in the Italian language. The Italian language is considered the language of business in the country. Plus, it will also help you in better immersion with the culture and gaining a deeper connection with local colleagues. There are several ways you master the language from online courses to language exchange meetups.
As an expat residing in Italy, you must understand the legalities associated with visas and work permits. You should start your legal awareness from the Italian embassy in the Gambia. If you already secured a job offer, it will accelerate the process. The sectors that are in demand often have streamlined and fast procedures. If you wish to understand everything more in-depth, it will be easier to seek legal advice from professionals. Usually, you do not have to worry about any legalities to send money online to Gambia from Italy.
As a newbie in Italy, you might at times get surprised by the work culture. Hence, it is very important to understand and adapt to the local work culture as it will not only help you thrive professionally but also help you in your personal growth in Italy. Here are some tips to learn by heart before starting your job in Italy.
Italians value the bonds that are created over a cup of coffee. You will find that coffee shops and cafes are the hub for informal networking which can have a profound impact on careers. Take your time to know your colleagues as these relationships can become your support system in the new country.
Italians are often called the masters of work-life balance as they work hard with a zest for life. They call their lunch break “pausa pranzo” and highly value it. Moreover, they also have a tradition of “aperitivo” which is a small break to chat after work. These small breaks help them be more productive at work and add to their overall happiness.
Do not forget that you are in Italy, the land of fashion. Here, fashion is not just for the runways. You will find it everywhere from boardrooms to offices. In Italy, dressing well is a form of respect that you have for yourself and others. You do not have always to wear designer labels or expensive clothes but present yourself well and formally.
If you have newly moved to Italy, you might have to face the challenge of financial management. There is a plethora of financial responsibilities that you have to tackle from paying utility bills to making money transfers from Italy to Gambia. It is important to be meticulous regarding your finances, otherwise, you can easily pave the way to failure.
One of the most important things when it comes to financial complexities is taxes. Plus, the Italian tax system is extremely hard to understand for a newbie. You should be aware of your fiscal duties and the benefits you are entitled to. It is advisable to consult a tax advisor so you can stay away from any penalties. It will also ensure that you are fully taking advantage of the Italian social security system.
As an expat, you might have the responsibility to support your family back home in the Gambia. In this regard, ACE Money Transfer can help you. ACE offers competitive exchange rates along with reliable money transfer service which guarantees that your hard-earned money reaches your loved ones safely. Moreover, Gambians in Italy now enjoy lower remittance fees which allows them to save more money for themselves.
There is no doubt that life in Italy is enchanting, but do not take the expenses for granted. You should openly embrace the local habits of shopping at markets for fresh and affordable produce. Moreover, shift to public transport to save more of your earnings. These simple habits can help you save in the long run to build your Italian dream.
The adventurous professional journey in Italy will open paths for personal growth as well. Here are some ways how you can ensure that both professional and personal growth are enriching and fulfilling.
Stay up to date in your professional skills for ultimate success. The world is constantly changing and it is important to value continuous learning through courses and workshops. It will not only enhance your career prospects but also your intellect and creativity.
Professional networking is not enough to build your support system in Italy. Build a circle of good friends and acquaintances so you have something to rely on when you need emotional support. You can do this by engaging with the local community, joining clubs, and attending events.
Always remember that you might have moved to Italy for professional growth, but it will become a major event in shaping your personality. You will learn the challenges of adaptation and growth. This guide will help you in making your mark on the Italian soil. Remember, ACE Money Transfer will always be there for you to handle your financial problems.
Sign up on ACE today to enjoy your first free online money transfer from Italy to Gambia!
It depends on the profession. Regulated professions may require validation of qualifications and additional examinations.
Yes, having a job offer is typically required to apply for a work visa in Italy, although there are some exceptions for highly skilled migrants.
The processing time can vary, but it generally takes about 30 days from the application date if all documents are in order.
The cost of living can range significantly, but on average, you should budget between €1,500 and €2,000 per month.
Industries such as agriculture, engineering, IT, and healthcare have shown higher demand for international professionals.
Resources:
https://www.ecre.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Working-Paper-12-The-Gambia.pdf
