permanent job in italy

Working in Italy: A Dream or Reality?

Many people dream of working in sunny Italy, surrounded by historic cities, delicious food and a relaxed lifestyle. But what is it really like to work in Italy? What are the benefits and challenges of a permanent job in Italy? In this blog, we discuss everything you need to know before you take the plunge.

Work culture in Italy

Italian work culture differs greatly from that in the Netherlands or Belgium. Italians value personal relationships and networking, so finding a job is often easier if you have contacts. The hierarchy in the workplace tends to be more formal, and respect for authority is important. In addition, the “dolce vita” mentality plays a big role in daily life. Lunchtime is sacred and it is not uncommon to take a long lunch break. Overwork is considered normal in some sectors, while in others a relaxed work attitude prevails.

Culture in Italy

Italy has a rich culture dating back to Roman times. Art, music and architecture play a major role in everyday life. From Michelangelo to Verdi, Italy has produced many greats. Festivals and traditions are an important part of Italian society, with towns and villages often coming together to celebrate religious and historical events.

Eating out in Italy

Eating out in Italy is a social affair. Italians take time to enjoy their meals and often eat several courses. A traditional Italian meal consists of antipasto (appetizer), primo (pasta or risotto), secondo (meat or fish), contorno (side dish) and dolce (dessert). Espresso or limoncello after dinner is common. Tipping is not mandatory, but small amounts are appreciated.

Climate in Italy

Italy has several climate zones. The north has a temperate climate with cold winters and hot summers, while central Italy (e.g. Tuscany) has milder winters and hot summers. In southern Italy and on the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, the climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. Coastal areas often enjoy pleasant sea breezes, while inland areas can have extremely hot summers.

Customs and habits in Italy

Italians are known for their warm and expressive way of communicating. Hand gestures are an integral part of their language. Family plays a central role in the lives of most Italians, and it is customary to gather often for meals and festivities. Punctuality is less strict than in the Netherlands; arriving a few minutes late is often socially accepted, except in business settings.

Popular Sectors and Jobs in Italy

Depending on your skills and experience, there are several sectors in which foreigners can find good work:

Tourism and hospitality – From hotels to restaurants and guides, especially in cities such as Rome, Florence and Venice.

Fashion and design – Italy is a world leader in fashion and interior design, with Milan at its epicenter.

Technology and startups – Although Italy is not known for its tech industry, there are growing opportunities in cities such as Bologna and Turin.

Education – English teachers are often sought after, especially in larger cities and international schools.

Visa and Work Permit for Italy

It is relatively easy for EU citizens to work in Italy because you do not need a visa or work permit. You do need to register with the local municipality and apply for a tax number (codice fiscale). For non-EU citizens, stricter rules apply and you often need an employer to arrange a work permit for you.

Salaries and Cost of Living

The average salary in Italy is lower than in the Netherlands or Belgium, but the cost of living can also be lower, depending on the region. Northern Italy (Milan, Turin) is more expensive than Southern Italy, where the cost of rent and living is often much lower

Conclusion

Working in Italy can be a great experience, especially if you love the Italian culture and lifestyle. However, it is important to be well prepared for the work culture, salaries and the sometimes bureaucratic procedures. With the right expectations and planning, working in Italy can be a dream come true!