From work permit to long-term stay: getting permanent residency in Italy

Italy isn’t just a short-term career stopover. With its high quality of life, rich culture, and growing demand for international talent, more and more foreign professionals are choosing to stay for the long haul.

But moving from a temporary work visa to permanent residency in Italy requires careful planning and understanding of the legal process. Securing the EU long-term residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno UE per soggiornanti di lungo periodo) is a key milestone for foreign workers aiming to settle permanently.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through eligibility requirements, application steps, documentation, and how Italian Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify your path to permanent residency.

What is the EU long-term residence permit in Italy?

The Permesso di Soggiorno UE per soggiornanti di lungo periodo is Italy’s version of the EU long-term residence permit. It grants non-EU nationals the right to live and work in Italy indefinitely, offering a level of stability similar to that of Italian citizens.

Benefits of having permanent residency:

• Unlimited stay and work rights in Italy
• Easier mobility within the EU for work or family reasons
• Access to public benefits and services
• Simplified family reunification procedures
• Greater job flexibility without needing employer-sponsored permits

Permanent residency vs. work permit renewals

Unlike temporary work permits, which require periodic renewals tied to a specific job or employer, permanent residency offers freedom from these restrictions. It allows you to change employers or pursue self-employment without restarting the immigration process.

Learn more about: How to obtain work permits & visas in Italy: a complete guide

Eligibility criteria for permanent residency in Italy

Before applying, ensure you meet these essential requirements:

1. Minimum residence duration: 5 years of continuous legal stay

You must have legally lived in Italy for at least five consecutive years under valid residence permits (e.g., work visa, family visa). Short absences (under six months) are allowed but cannot exceed 10 months in total.

2. Proof of income and suitable housing

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Stable and sufficient income to support themselves and dependents (usually proven via employment contracts, payslips, and tax returns).
• Adequate housing that meets health and safety standards, often verified by a housing suitability certificate (certificato di idoneità alloggiativa).

3. Italian language proficiency (A2 level)

You must pass a recognised Italian language test at A2 level (basic proficiency). Exemptions may apply if you’ve attended certain Italian language or integration courses.

4. Clean criminal record and integration prerequisites

A clean criminal record in Italy and compliance with Italian laws are mandatory. Authorities may also assess your level of social and cultural integration.

How to apply for long-term residency in Italy

The application process involves several steps. Here’s what you need to know:

Where and how to apply

• Post Office: Collect and submit the residency application kit (kit di soggiorno).
• Questura (Police Immigration Office): You’ll be invited for a biometric appointment and document verification.
• Online services: Some services allow partial online submission, but in-person appointments remain essential.

Required documents

Prepare the following:

• Valid passport and current residence permit
• Proof of continuous residence (e.g., rental contracts, residency certificates)
• Employment contract and recent payslips (last 12 months)
• Tax returns (CUD or Modello Unico)
• Housing suitability certificate (certificato di idoneità alloggiativa)
• Italian language proficiency certificate
• Clean criminal record certificates from Italy and your home country

Application fees and timelines

• Application fee: €100–€200 (varies by region)
• Processing time: Typically 60 to 120 days, depending on case complexity and local Questura workload.

Common reasons for rejection

• Incomplete documentation or expired permits
• Insufficient income proof
• Lack of Italian language certification
• Gaps in legal residence exceeding allowed limits

Avoid delays by double-checking all paperwork and ensuring continuous legal stay.

Tax and legal considerations for permanent residents

Securing long-term residency brings additional legal and tax responsibilities:

Tax residency implications

Permanent residents are considered Italian tax residents if they spend more than 183 days per year in Italy. This means global income may become subject to Italian taxation—be sure to consult a tax advisor.

Social security continuity

Maintaining continuous contributions to INPS (Italian National Social Security Institute) is critical for preserving pension rights and social benefits.

Renewal and revocation risks

While permanent residency doesn’t expire, it can be revoked if:

• You leave Italy for more than 12 consecutive months.
• You fail to meet tax or legal obligations.
• You commit serious crimes.

How an Employer of Record (EOR) supports professionals pursuing permanent residency

Partnering with an Employer of Record in Italy can make your path to permanent residency far smoother.

Ensures legal employment and social security registration

An EOR guarantees that your employment is fully compliant with Italian labour laws, including timely INPS and INAIL registrations—essential for your residency application.

Provides compliant contracts and payroll records

Residency applications require precise documentation. An EOR supplies employment contracts, payslips, and tax filings that meet immigration office standards.

Supports relocation and documentation for remote workers

If you’re working remotely for an international company, an EOR can legally employ you in Italy, ensuring you meet residency prerequisites like registered income and contributions.

Helps companies retain foreign talent without a local entity

Employers can continue to support their non-EU workers’ residency journey without needing to open an Italian subsidiary, reducing costs and administrative overhead.

Best practices and tips for a smooth transition

• Plan at least one year in advance: Begin organising documents and verifying eligibility well before hitting the five-year mark.
• Keep records in order: Save all payslips, tax documents, housing contracts, and residency certificates.
• Start Italian language courses early: Don’t wait until the last minute to meet the A2 proficiency requirement.
• Partner with immigration experts or an EOR: Professional support can prevent costly errors and streamline the process.

Secure your long-term future in Italy with the right strategy

Transitioning from a temporary work visa to permanent residency in Italy is a critical step for foreign professionals seeking stability and flexibility.

By understanding the eligibility rules, preparing documentation meticulously, and ensuring employment compliance, you can navigate the process with confidence.

Italian Employer of Record can be your trusted partner, handling legal employment and compliance, so you can focus on building your long-term career and life in Italy.

Contact us today to explore EOR solutions that support your journey towards permanent residency in Italy.