Lana Oconnell
Italy is a popular destination for international students, with over 100,000 choosing to study there in 2024. The country offers a rich history and culture, with 59 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For international students, Italy also presents an opportunity to gain work experience and earn some extra money through part-time jobs. In this article, we will explore the possibilities available for international students seeking to work in Italy and the steps they need to take to ensure they are legally employed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Work hours | Maximum of 20 hours per week and 1,040 hours per year |
| Work hours during vacation | Up to 40 hours per week |
| Work hours for EU students | No strict limit, but balancing studies and work is important |
| Salary | Between €800 to €1,200 per month or €505 to €1,120 per month, depending on the source |
| Salary per hour | Between €10 to €15 per hour |
| Visa requirements | Need to show proof of minimum €460.28 per month during your stay in Italy |
| Visa application documents | Passport-size photographs, travel documents, photocopies of previous visas, civil status documents, proof of enrollment, police clearances, proof of accommodation |
| Permit of stay | Required for non-EU students with a valid permit of stay for studying purposes |
| Work permit | Not needed for EU students |
| Other requirements | Codice fiscale (Italian tax identification number), regular contract |
| Job search platforms | Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, AIESEC UK, GoAbroad.com, IAESTE |
| Job types | Barista, hotel receptionist, tour guide, English tutor, language assistant, research assistant, customer service representative, sales associate, event staff, freelancer, blogger, agricultural worker, health professional, ski or trekking instructor |
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What You'll Learn
- Part-time work options for international students in Italy
- Work permits and visa requirements for international students in Italy
- Popular industries for international students in Italy
- Average salary and cost of living for international students in Italy
- Job search tips for international students in Italy
Part-time work options for international students in Italy
International students in Italy can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. To do so legally, they need a Type D visa and a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno).
There are various part-time work options available for international students in Italy, including:
- Working in restaurants, bars, and cafes.
- Working as a hotel receptionist.
- Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) to Italian-speaking children.
- Working as a tour guide.
- Working as a research or teaching assistant at the university.
- Working as a freelancer in writing, social media marketing, or web designing.
- Working in the healthcare sector.
- Working in construction, tourism, or manufacturing.
International students can also look for part-time work within their university or search for jobs online on websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and GoAbroad.com.
The average hourly pay for part-time jobs in Italy is between €7 and €15, which means students can earn between €560 and €1,200 per month, depending on their job, skills, and experience. This income can help cover living expenses and even allow for some savings.
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Work permits and visa requirements for international students in Italy
International students in Italy can work part-time, but there are some limitations. EU students can work alongside their studies without a work permit, but non-EU students need a work permit, which requires a job offer from an Italian-based employer. This can be a complicated process, and it is recommended that non-EU students do not rely on getting a job immediately upon arrival in Italy.
Work permits
Non-EU students with a valid permit of stay for studying purposes can work in Italy, but only for a maximum of 20 hours per week. This is because their “studying activity” must always have prevalence over their “working activity", as their main reason for entering Italy is to study.
Visa requirements
EU students studying in Italy for longer than three months must register at their local Questura station (police station) to obtain a residence permit. Non-EU students must obtain a student visa before entering Italy. There are two types of visa: a short-stay visa (Visa type C), valid for up to 90 days, and a long-stay visa (Visa type D), valid for more than 90 days. Since January 10, 2025, all long-term visa applicants have had to schedule an appointment for biometric data collection (fingerprints) at the Italian consulate.
Job options
International students can find part-time work in restaurants, bars, and supermarkets if they have some basic Italian language skills. They can also work as freelancers in writing, social media marketing, or web designing. In addition, international students can work in hospitals, as there is a great demand for health professionals. Other options include working as a tourist guide or a ski or trekking instructor.
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Popular industries for international students in Italy
Italy is a popular destination for international students due to its diverse programs, high-quality education, and rich culture and history. International students with a valid permit to stay in Italy are allowed to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week. This presents a great opportunity for students to earn money, gain work experience, and cover their living expenses.
Hospitality and Tourism
This industry includes jobs such as waitstaff, bartenders, tour guides, and hotel assistants. These roles often offer flexible hours, allowing students to balance their work and academic commitments. Working in this industry also provides opportunities to interact with people from diverse backgrounds and develop valuable communication and customer service skills. Additionally, it can offer insights into Italian culture and hospitality.
Language Teaching and Tutoring
English tutors and language instructors are often in demand in Italy. International students with a good command of English or other languages can find ample teaching job opportunities. Teaching can be a rewarding way to share knowledge, connect with students, and build valuable skills.
Administrative and Office Support
Part-time jobs in data entry, customer service, and office assistance are often available in various industries. These roles may provide stable work schedules and opportunities to develop organizational and administrative skills.
Health Care
As there is a skill shortage in certain areas of healthcare, international students with relevant qualifications can find part-time work in hospitals. This allows them to gain valuable experience in the Italian healthcare system while earning an income.
Construction and Manufacturing
Italy has a skill shortage in certain areas, including construction and manufacturing. International students with relevant skills or experience can target these industries for well-paid part-time work.
It is important for international students to carefully manage their finances and create a budget to ensure their expenses are covered. Part-time work can provide a significant income to support their studies and daily lives in Italy. Additionally, students can seek assistance from recruitment agencies and job search platforms specializing in part-time opportunities for international students.
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Average salary and cost of living for international students in Italy
International students in Italy with a valid permit of stay for studying purposes can work part-time, with their total working hours not exceeding 20 hours per week. The average salary for international students in Italy is between €800 and €1,200 per month, or between €505 and €1,120 per month for those working 20 hours a week. The hourly salary is between €10 and €15.
The cost of living in Italy for international students varies depending on their choices and location. On average, a student in Italy would spend €150–€200 per month on groceries and €8–€16 on a meal at a mid-range restaurant. Transportation is relatively cheap and convenient in Italy, with a monthly bus, tram, or metro ticket costing €25–€45. Students can also save up to 70% on train tickets by booking early. Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage, and internet, will cost around €200–€300 per month. Basic Italian health insurance for foreigners costs €10–€13 per month, while EU students receive free healthcare.
Accommodation costs vary depending on the city and type of accommodation. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city costs on average €777.78 per month, while a similar apartment in a rural area costs €557. Renting a room in a shared apartment or living with a local family are ways to reduce accommodation costs. Overall, the average cost of living in Italy for international students ranges from €7,500 to €8,500 per year, including housing, food, entertainment, and personal expenses.
International students can find part-time work in Italy through their universities or by searching for jobs online on websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, AIESEC UK, GoAbroad.com, or IAESTE. Part-time jobs are available in areas such as construction, tourism, manufacturing, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, writing, social media marketing, web designing, and health.
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Job search tips for international students in Italy
International students in Italy can work part-time, up to a maximum of 20 hours per week, to support themselves financially and gain valuable work experience. However, there are several eligibility requirements that must be met, including having a valid student visa and residence permit.
Eligibility and documentation
Before starting your job search, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary documentation. As mentioned, international students in Italy must have a valid student visa and residence permit to work legally in the country. Non-EU students should ensure that their residence permit specifically allows part-time work. Additionally, you must be enrolled in a recognised institution, so have your valid student ID or official documentation ready when applying for jobs.
Job search platforms
There are several job search platforms that cater to different sectors. Here are some popular options:
- Indeed Italy: Lists part-time and full-time opportunities across various sectors.
- LinkedIn: Ideal for professional networking and finding part-time jobs in corporate roles and freelance work.
- Subito: One of Italy's largest classified websites, offering part-time job listings in retail, hospitality, teaching, and more.
- Monster Italy: Provides job listings for part-time and freelance opportunities in various sectors.
- Jobrapido: A comprehensive job search engine covering part-time, temporary, and student jobs in different industries.
- CornerJob: A mobile-first platform for entry-level part-time jobs in hospitality, retail, and delivery services.
- Bakeca: An Italian classified ads site with part-time job listings in teaching, retail, and home services.
- InfoJobs Italy: A popular job board listing part-time, full-time, and freelance jobs across Italy.
- Goabroad.com: This platform caters specifically to international students, offering part-time jobs, internships, and work-study programs.
University opportunities
Your university may offer part-time work opportunities to students. Contact the relevant officials and apply wherever necessary. University-sponsored internships might be available for undergraduates and postgraduates, providing valuable career development and experience. Additionally, your university's career centre or student services may have job listings or connections with local employers.
Language skills
Italian language skills are highly valued in the Italian job market. Basic Italian language proficiency can open up opportunities in restaurants, bars, clubs, and supermarkets. Additionally, English-speaking staff are in high demand in the hospitality and tourism industry, so if you have a good command of English, you can explore these opportunities.
Networking
Networking and asking for referrals from Italian friends or classmates can be helpful. Your university network can also be a valuable resource for job referrals and connections.
Other opportunities
Freelance work in writing, social media marketing, web designing, or related professions can be a good option. Additionally, Italy has a skill shortage in certain areas, such as construction, tourism, and manufacturing, so international students can explore these in-demand occupations.
Remember to stay positive and persistent in your job search, and don't be afraid to grab any opportunity that comes your way!
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can work in Italy for up to 20 hours per week or a total of 1040 hours per year.
International students need a residence permit and a codice fiscale (Italian tax identification number) to work in Italy. The residence permit is required within 8 days of arriving in Italy. The codice fiscale can be obtained at the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency) or at the Italian embassy in the student's home country.
Italy has a shortage of workers in specific fields, including healthcare, information technology (IT), marketing/design, science & technology (STEM), and teaching. These jobs are in high demand and often come with good pay. There are also other part-time jobs available in Italy based on the student's skills and interests.
