Gaining entry in Italy to work will be a breeze for all citizens of the European Union. You would have to be, however, equal in academic or practical training and language skills with Italian nationals. If you meet all these requirements, you will be given equal status to Italian employees. Your family too will be entitled to benefits for Italian citizens.
Individuals who do not hail from any of the EU countries might have a tougher time gaining entry. Many job vacancies in Italy are meant only for Italians and EU members. Employers sometimes only recruit non-Italians or non-EU citizens if there is no one else with the skills for the job. They will have to however, avail of Entry Visa for Reasons of Work before they get to Italy. Getting this Visa is really difficult hence many opt to marry Italian citizens or working illegally inside the country.

Moving to Italy

Italians are very proud of their culture and heritage though there are some evident signs of American culture in the country such as the presence of fast food chains. Italy is one of the most expensive countries in the EU. However, the disparity in the cost of living between the more affluent northern and central parts and their poorer southern counterparts is large. The cost of food in Italy is practically double than in the US. Luxury items such as cars are expensive though alcohol, spirits and wines are usually inexpensive.

You might have to start getting used to cigars since practically everyone in Italy smokes. Another thing you should get used to is how Italians always take it slow. If you are used to fast-paced living, it might take some time to adjust.

Job Prospects in Italy

English speakers who hold TEFL certificates could easily get jobs teaching English as a foreign language. You could also get jobs in bars and any establishment that need employees who can speak English. The new trends in employment in the country are in the wholesale sector, food industries, tourism, auto sales, wood furniture, and mineral industries.

Typical Salaries and Benefits in Italy

Italy is one of the countries with no set minimum wage. The minimum amount an employee would receive depends on the unions and the groups of employers. The highest paid jobs in Italy are those located in the northern parts particularly Milan. Unfortunately for women, they are paid less than men even though the job is the same. Italian employees enjoy a 13th month's salary paid during Christmas. A 14th month's salary is also applicable for some which is paid before summer holidays begin.

Employees in the petroleum and banking industries receive 15th and 16th months' salaries. Average salary in Italy is lower than that of the USA. A manager, for example, receives 2,900 Euros a month only.

Basic Data on Taxes in Italy

Taxes in Italy are pervasive. They are exacted by the government from national down to the local level. If you do not want to be taxed for your money, maintain an offshore bank account and transfer cash to an Italian bank only when you need to do so. Italy's progressive tax is called IRPEF which is not only based on your salary but also on the approximate cost of your home. Social Security tax is also applied at 10% of what you earn.

High Demand Jobs in Italy

The most in-demand jobs in Italy as of today include jobs in engineering, sales and marketing, general business, cultural advice, and accounting and finance. English speakers could also teach English as a foreign language as long as they have a TEFL certificate.

Immigration and Visa Issues in Italy

You must be a worker's permit holder before you can work in Italy. A worker's permit is sponsored by a company you will work with once you arrive in the country. All citizens of non-EU countries without sponsors are required to get an Entry Visa for Reasons of Work. If you wish to be a resident of Italy, you should have been living and working legally in the country for 183 days.

Best Job Locations in Italy

When it comes to salary, the best places to work are the cities of northern and central Italy. However, the salary is only high in these places due to the fact that the cost of living is higher than in Italy's poorer southern cities. Still, it might be easier finding a job in the more expensive parts of the country because opportunities are of course more numerous.

Find Jobs via Websites in Italy

Work in Italy: Jobs Abroad, Italian International Employment Opportunities Abroad
A directory of open jobs in Italy
Jobs in Italy,Employment Opportunities,Job Search Abroad for Americans,Italy Jobs
A directory for Italian jobs
Working in Italy: Networking for Jobs
A page offering advice on how to find jobs in Italy as well as a list of online job sites

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