💼 Work After Studies

Your pathway from student to professional

Italy offers international graduates excellent opportunities to build a career after their studies. With flexible stay-back options, visa pathways for employment or entrepreneurship, and access to the European job market, Italy supports students in turning academic achievements into professional success.

🎯 Stay-Back & Work Options for International Graduates

1. Permesso di Soggiorno – Attesa Occupazione (Stay Permit for Job Search)

Duration: 6 to 12 months after graduation

Who is eligible:

  • Non-EU students who have completed a Laurea Magistrale (Master’s degree) or higher from an Italian university

  • Graduates from accredited universities recognized by the Italian government

Purpose:
Allows graduates to stay in Italy legally to seek employment or start a business.

Work rights:
Full-time employment permitted once a job is secured

2. Conversion to Work Visa (Permesso di Soggiorno per Lavoro Subordinato)

Once you receive a job offer, you can convert your stay permit to a work permit. This is typically done through the annual Decreto Flussi (immigration quota system).

Requirements include:

  • Valid job contract

  • Salary in line with national standards

  • Employer sponsorship through the immigration portal (nulla osta)

Visa Types:

  • Lavoro Subordinato: For salaried employment

  • Lavoro Autonomo: For self-employment or freelance work

3. Startup Visa & Entrepreneurial Pathways

Italy encourages innovation and startups through the Italia Startup Visa—a streamlined process for non-EU entrepreneurs.

Key Features:

  • Apply with a business plan approved by the Ministry of Economic Development

  • Access to incubators and innovation networks

  • Multi-year residence permit available

🧑‍💼 Types of Jobs & Internships Available

Work Type Description Eligibility
Full-Time Jobs Roles aligned with graduate qualifications Requires work permit or converted visa
Internships & Traineeships Often part of degree programs, can lead to jobs Permitted during and after studies
Research Positions Doctoral and post-doctoral academic roles Requires advanced degree and research plan
Startups & Freelance Under Italy’s autonomous work visa rules For self-employed, creatives, consultants

💡 Important Tips for Staying & Working in Italy

  • Language Skills: Basic Italian boosts your chances; however, many jobs in tech, fashion, and business are available in English.

  • Career Services: Use university career centers, job portals, and Erasmus+ networks.

  • Salary Thresholds: Work visa applicants must meet minimum salary criteria as per contract type (~€25,000–€30,000/year).

  • Timing: Apply for the “job search permit” before your student residence permit expires.

📑 Documents Needed for Stay-Back & Work Visa Applications

  • Valid passport and current Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit)

  • Degree certificate or transcript

  • Proof of accommodation and financial means

  • Job contract (for work visa) or business plan (for entrepreneurs)

  • Health insurance

  • Proof of language skills (if required)

🌍 Long-Term Residency & Citizenship

After 5 years of legal residence (including study + work), you may be eligible for:

  • Permesso di Soggiorno UE per Soggiornanti di Lungo Periodo (Long-term EU residence permit)

  • Italian Citizenship, if you meet residency duration, language, and integration requirements

📩 How Can Impel Overseas Consultants Help?

At Impel Overseas, we guide students through every step of their post-study career journey in Italy:

  • ✅ Stay-back visa applications and renewals

  • ✅ Job search strategies and employer connections

  • ✅ Support for freelance and startup visa routes

  • ✅ Documentation review and legal compliance

Your future in Italy starts here.
📩 Contact us today to build your dream career in Italy! 🇮🇹✨