1. What is the EU Blue Card?
“The EU Blue Card is a special work permit that allows highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries to live and work in the European Union . professional like IT specialists, engineers, healthcare professionals, and researchers. As of now, 25 EU countries use the Blue Card, including Germany, France, Spain, and now, Italy, with its new 2024 changes.
2. What’s New in Italy’s Blue Card for 2024?
Italy previously also has work visa rules but what different this blue card will make for you . Let’s see if you are eligible to apply
- Lower Salary Requirements:“Before, you needed to earn at least 1.5 times the national average salary to qualify. Now, your salary just needs to match the national or regional bargaining agreements for your specific role and region, making it more accessible for various professions.” 24789
Example: “For IT specialists in Milan, the new minimum salary might be around €35,000/year—a big drop compared to the old threshold of over €45,000/year!”
- Broader Eligibility:“If you have at least 3 years of university education or 5 years of relevant work experience you are eligibility . This is great news for skilled professionals who don’t have formal degrees but have solid experience.”
- Shorter Job Contract Requirements:“Before, your job offer needed to be valid for at least 12 months. Now, just a 6-month contract will do, making it easier for employers to hire you.”
- Change of employer : before was 24 months now it’s 12 months
3. How Many Workers is Italy Planning to Bring In?
Under the new Blue Card scheme, Italy is looking to attract around 70,000 highly skilled workers over the next few years. This includes fields like healthcare, engineering, digital technology, and research. The government has specifically targeted sectors where Italy faces a talent shortage, so if you’ve got the skills, you’re in demand!”
Example for IT Professionals:
“Let’s say you’re an IT specialist. In Milan, the local labor agreements set the minimum salary for IT roles at around €35,000 per year. That’s the amount you’ll need to earn to qualify for the Blue Card—much lower than before!”
4. Benefits of the EU Blue Card
- Work Mobility Across the EU:“After 12 months of working in Italy, you can move to another EU country with just a simple transfer request—no need to apply for a new visa
- Family Reunification:“Your family members can join you almost immediately and have the right to work in Italy.
- Equal Rights:You get the same working conditions, social security, and tax benefits as Italian citizens.l
5. Who is Eligible?
- A valid job offer in Italy.
- A Bachelor’s degree or 5 years of work experience in a relevant field.
- Salary that meets the national agreements.
- Proof of accommodation in Italy.
“Make sure your educational documents are translated and legalized for use in Italy.”
Application fees 100 euros plus admin charges 75 euros