Italy Work Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens: A–Z Guide (2025 Update)

Italy is one of the most popular European destinations for Bangladeshi workers. Salaries are higher than in Bangladesh, workers’ rights are protected by law, and many sectors (agriculture, construction, hospitality, caregiving, factories, etc.) need foreign workers.

But getting an Italy work visa from Bangladesh is not simple. You cannot just “buy a visa” or apply without an Italian employer and government approval.

This article explains A–Z: all main types of Italy work visas, full step‑by‑step process from Bangladesh, required documents, fees, common mistakes, and official reference links you must check for the latest updates.

Important: Rules, quotas (Decreto Flussi), and fees can change every year. Always double‑check with the official Italian government and embassy websites listed at the end.

Table of Contents

1. Basic Idea: How Italy Work Visa Really Works

For non‑EU citizens like Bangladeshis, the Italy work migration process has three main stages:

Work Permit in Italy (Nulla Osta al Lavoro)
- Your Italian employer applies for a work authorization at the immigration office in Italy (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione).
- This is allowed only within annual quotas set by the Italian government, called Decreto Flussi.
National Work Visa (Type D) at Italian Embassy in Dhaka
- After the work permit is approved, you apply at the Italian Embassy (or its outsourced visa centre) in Bangladesh for a long‑stay work visa (Visto per Lavoro Subordinato or Stagionale).
Residence Permit in Italy (Permesso di Soggiorno per Lavoro)
- Once you arrive in Italy, you must apply for a residence permit within 8 days to legally live and work there.

So:

You cannot get an Italy work visa without a job offer and work permit (nulla osta).
You cannot normally go on a tourist visa and “convert to work” (there are limited conversion routes for students, seasonal, etc., but not for simple tourists).

2. Main Types of Italy Work Visas for Bangladeshi people

2.1. Seasonal Work Visa (Lavoro Stagionale)

For temporary and seasonal jobs, usually up to 8/9 months:
- Agriculture (farms, fruits/vegetables, harvesting)
- Tourism and hospitality (hotels, restaurants, resorts)
Requirements:
- Employer’s seasonal work permit (nulla osta stagionale)
- Included in Decreto Flussi quotas
After some years of regular seasonal work, in certain cases you can convert to non‑seasonal status if Italian law and quotas allow.

2.2. Non‑Seasonal Employee Work Visa (Lavoro Subordinato)

For permanent or long‑term employment. Common sectors:
- Construction, factories, logistics, caregiving, domestic work
- Restaurants, cleaning, small industries, etc.
Requires:
- Work permit (nulla osta al lavoro subordinato) from Italian employer
- Included in Decreto Flussi quotas
After arrival and residence permit, this can lead to long‑term residence if you work legally and renew on time.

2.3. Self‑Employment Visa (Lavoro Autonomo)

For business owners, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and certain professionals (doctors, engineers, etc.), with many extra conditions.
Very limited quotas and strict requirements (business plan, high income, professional licenses, Chamber of Commerce approval, etc.).
Usually not the main route for ordinary workers from Bangladesh.

2.4. Highly Skilled & Special Categories

Examples:

EU Blue Card (for highly qualified professionals with university degree and high salary).
Intra‑Corporate Transfer, researchers, university professors, etc.

These have special rules and often are not limited by Decreto Flussi, but require high education and strong job offers.

3. Eligibility Requirements for Italy Work Visa (Bangladeshi Applicants)

Exact requirements depend on visa type and year, but generally you must have:

Valid job offer in Italy
- Written job contract or binding offer from an Italian company.
Approved work permit (Nulla Osta)
- Issued by Italian immigration authorities under Decreto Flussi (or other applicable law).
No entry ban / good immigration record
- No Schengen overstay or serious immigration violations.
Clean criminal record
- Police Clearance Certificate from Bangladesh and possibly from other countries where you lived.
Relevant skills/experience
- For seasonal and low‑skilled jobs, basic experience may be enough.
- For skilled jobs, proof of education and professional background.
Accommodation in Italy (often provided or arranged by employer).
Enough funds and health insurance for the trip and first days in Italy until you start working and registered in the system.

4. A–Z Step‑by‑Step: How to Get Italy Work Visa from Bangladesh

Step 1: Understand Decreto Flussi (Annual Quotas)

Italy decides each year how many non‑EU workers can enter for work and from which countries. This is called the Decreto Flussi.
When quotas open, Italian employers can submit online applications for work permits for foreign workers.

Where to check official info on quotas:

Italian Ministry of Interior (Immigration section):
https://www.interno.gov.it
Italian Ministry of Labour (Flussi section – in Italian):
https://www.lavoro.gov.it
EU Immigration Portal – Italy page (in English):
https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/italy_en

Bangladesh has been included among the eligible countries in recent flows, but numbers and rules can change. Check the latest Decreto Flussi each year.

Step 2: Find a Genuine Italian Employer / Job Offer

You must have an Italian employer willing to hire and sponsor you.

Ways to look (safely):

Directly via Italian job sites and company websites.
Through trusted relatives/friends already legally in Italy who can help you connect with real employers.
Avoid illegal agents that “sell visas”. They usually:
- Ask for very high amounts of money.
- Do not provide clear job details or official documents.
- Promise “guaranteed visa” – which is not possible.

Tip: A real employer will apply for your work permit in Italy and you will later see your name and permit details in official documents.

Step 3: Employer Applies for Work Permit (Nulla Osta) in Italy

This part is done in Italy by your employer when the Decreto Flussi window opens.

Main steps for the employer:

Register on the Ministry of Interior’s online portal and fill in the application for nulla osta al lavoro.
Attach:
- Draft employment contract
- Company documents
- Proof of salary and accommodation
Submit the application as soon as portals open (quotas can fill very quickly).

If the application is accepted, the local immigration office issues a nulla osta (work authorization).

Step 4: Receive Work Permit & Contract from Employer

After approval:

The nulla osta is usually sent electronically to the Italian Embassy as well.
The employer should send you:
- Copy of the approved nulla osta
- Copy of the job contract / contract offer
- Passport data page copy with correct spelling of your name

Check all details (name, date of birth, passport number) carefully.

Step 5: Book Visa Appointment in Bangladesh

You must apply for the Italy National (D) Work Visa at the Italian Embassy in Dhaka or their official outsourcing partner (VFS Global/TLScontact, depending on current contracts).

Official Embassy website:

Embassy of Italy in Dhaka:
https://ambdhaka.esteri.it

On the embassy website, you will find:

Whether you must apply directly at the Embassy or via a visa application center.
How to book an appointment (online system).
Updated visa fee and document checklist.

Step 6: Prepare All Required Documents

Below is a general checklist for a long‑stay work visa (type D). Always compare with the official checklist on the Embassy website because details can change.

1. Application Forms

Filled and signed Italy National Visa Application Form (D).
Official visa info portal (forms & conditions):
https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en

2. Passport & Photos

Valid Bangladeshi passport (usually valid at least 6 months beyond the intended stay; many embassies want 6+ months).
Photocopies of:
- Passport data page
- Previous visas and entry/exit stamps, if any.
Recent biometric passport photos (as per Schengen photo standards).

3. Work Documents

Original or copy of Nulla Osta al Lavoro (work permit) issued by Italian authorities. Download form
Job contract / employment offer signed by employer (if required).
Any additional forms requested by the Embassy.

4. Personal & Supporting Documents

NID copy (Bangladesh National ID).
Birth certificate (if requested). (Apply Now)
Police Clearance Certificate from Bangladesh (recent; usually not older than 3–6 months). (Online Apply here)
Educational certificates (school, college, university) – any others:
- Notarization (Apply)
- Attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Bangladesh) if required
Work experience certificates, reference letters (especially for skilled jobs).

5. Financial & Accommodation Proof

Depending on category, you may need:
- Bank statements from last 3–6 months (if required)
- Proof of accommodation in Italy (often provided by employer)
- Any guarantee letter from employer (if requested).

6. Travel & Health Insurance

Travel medical insurance valid for the Schengen area (including Italy) for at least the initial period of stay (check the Embassy’s exact requirement).
Minimum coverage often BDT 50,00000, including emergency medical care and repatriation.

7. Visa Fee & Service Charges

National D visa fee for work is typically around BDT 20,000
If applying through VFS/TLS, there is an additional service charge will be added.

8. Others (If Applicable)

Marriage certificate (if spouse is going later under family reunion).
Children’s birth certificates.
Previous residence permits if you lived abroad.

Make sure all documents are:

In correct format and language (Italian or English; translations may require official translator).
Organized by category to make the visa interview smoother.

Step 7: Attend Visa Appointment (Biometrics & Interview)

On the appointment day:

Arrive early with all original documents and copies.
Submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo – if not already in Schengen system).
Answer questions honestly, such as:
- What job will you do in Italy? (Check Here)
- Who is your employer?
- Have you ever been to Europe before?
Pay the visa fee and any service fees.( Visa Fees, In addition to the Visa Fees, applicant requires to pay the VFS Global Service Charge (inclusive of all taxes), FEES BANGLADESH TAKA (BDT)6000/0, VFS Global Service Charge 4560, Bank Draft Charge 270

You might receive a tracking number to follow your application status.

Step 8: Visa Processing Time & Decision

Processing time for Italy work visa can vary:

Usually from 15 days to several weeks, depending on volume and complexity.
Sometimes longer during high‑season or if documents need extra checks.

Possible outcomes:

Visa Approved – You get a visa sticker (type D, lavoro) in your passport, with validity dates and entry conditions. (Sample)
Visa Refused – You receive a refusal letter with reason codes. You may have the right to appeal in Italy within a certain time, but this normally requires an Italian lawyer and is not easy.

Step 9: Prepare for Travel to Italy (Follow check list)

Once you get the visa:

Check the validity dates and number of entries. very important
Buy your air ticket (one‑way if allowed for work visa; follow Embassy guidance). check your tickets price here.
Pack copies of all important documents:
- Passport with visa
- Nulla osta
- Job contract
- Accommodation details
- Insurance (Get the insurance company list here) recommended insurance company

Keep them in your hand luggage. Immigration officers in Italy may ask to see them.

Step 10: After Arrival in Italy – Very Important

Within 8 days of landing in Italy, you must:

Apply for Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno per Lavoro):
- Usually done through a special kit at Post Office (Sportello Amico) or directly at Questura (Police immigration office) depending on local rules.
- Attach copies of:
  - Passport & visa
  - Nulla osta & contract
  - Photographs
  - Tax stamp (marca da bollo)
  - Other required documents
- Pay the residence permit fees.
Get Codice Fiscale (Tax Code):
- Needed for salary, bank account, rental contracts, etc.
- Can be requested at Agenzia delle Entrate (Tax Office) or sometimes pre‑issued.
Sign your employment contract (if not already signed) and start work.
Register for health coverage (SSN – Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) if applicable.

Keep your work permit, residence permit and passport valid at all times and respect Italian laws.

5. Fees & Approximate Costs

Fees vary, but you should plan for:

Visa fee (type D): around €116 (to be paid in BDT at Embassy/VFS rate).
Service fee (if via VFS/TLS).
Residence permit fee in Italy:
- Application fee + plastic card fee + tax stamp (marca da bollo) – usually totalling around €100–€150, depending on permit length.
Insurance, translations, attestation, and photocopies: variable.
Travel ticket and initial living expenses for first month(s) in Italy.

Always check updated amounts on:

Visa portal: https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it
Embassy of Italy in Dhaka: https://ambdhaka.esteri.it

6. Common Reasons for Rejection (and How to Avoid Them)

Fake or doubtful documents
- Never use forged bank statements, fake job offers, or fake certificates.
Unclear job or employer
- If the Embassy suspects that the company is not genuine, or the job is not real, they can refuse.
Immigration risk
- If they believe you might overstay or work illegally in another EU country, they may refuse.
Incomplete file
- Missing documents, no translations, or old/bad photos.
Mismatch of information
- Differences between what you say and what is in documents.

Tips:

Apply only through official channels and real employers.
Follow the exact checklist from the Embassy.
Be honest in the interview.
Use a registered consultant or lawyer only if necessary, and always check their license; nobody can “guarantee” a visa.

7. Useful Official Reference Links

Always rely on these official sources for the latest rules, forms, and fees:

Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Visa Portal
(Visa types, forms, general requirements)
https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en
Embassy of Italy in Dhaka, Bangladesh
(Local instructions, appointments, contact, fees)
https://ambdhaka.esteri.it
Italian Ministry of Interior – Immigration and Asylum
(Legal framework, residence permits, entry for work – mainly in Italian)
https://www.interno.gov.it
Italian Ministry of Labour – Flussi / Work Migration
(Decreto Flussi and labour migration – mainly in Italian)
https://www.lavoro.gov.it
EU Immigration Portal – Italy
(Clear English overview of Italian migration rules)
https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/italy_en

7. FAQs – Italy Work Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens

Can I apply for Italy work visa from Bangladesh without job offer?

No. For a standard employee work visa, you must have:

An Italian employer
Approved work permit (nulla osta)

Without these, the Embassy will not accept your work visa application.

Is there any Italy work visa lottery for Bangladeshis?

No official “lottery” like the US Green Card lottery. Italy has Decreto Flussi quotas, which are applied for by employers, not by workers directly.

Do I need IELTS or Italian language certificate?

For most low‑skilled or seasonal jobs, there is no specific IELTS requirement.
However, basic Italian language is very helpful for life and work in Italy and may be preferred by employers.
For skilled professions (doctors, nurses, engineers, etc.), language and professional certification requirements may apply.

Can I go to Italy on a tourist visa and then convert to work visa?

Normally no. Italy generally requires that you enter with the correct work visa issued in your home country. Converting a short‑stay (C) tourist visa to work is usually not allowed.

How long can I stay in Italy on a work visa?

The visa lets you enter Italy.
The residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) determines how long you can legally stay and work.
It is usually issued for the same duration as your work contract, and can be renewed if you continue working and meet conditions.

Can I bring my family from Bangladesh?

If you hold a valid residence permit for work and meet income and housing requirements, you may later apply for family reunification (ricongiungimento familiare) for:

Spouse
Minor children, and in some cases dependent parents

Check official family reunion rules here:
https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/italy_en

Is Italy work visa permanent?

No. A work visa and permit are temporary. After 5 years of legal stay and work, you may be eligible to apply for EU long‑term residence permit, which gives more stability and rights, if you meet language and other requirements.