Hire in Italy
Streamline your international hiring in Italy with our expert support.
We understand the complexities of navigating Italian labor law, INPS contributions, and compliance requirements. Our comprehensive solution ensures a smooth and efficient experience for your expansion into Europe's third-largest economy.
Expedited onboarding in just 2-3 days
Facts and statistics
Italy is located in Southern Europe, extending into the Mediterranean Sea, with a population of over 59 million people.
As the world's eighth-largest economy, Italy is a global leader in fashion, luxury goods, automotive, machinery, and food production. The country boasts a rich cultural heritage, highly skilled artisans, and a strong tradition of innovation in design and manufacturing.
Italy offers excellent quality of life, strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean, and access to European markets. With its world-renowned design industry, strong manufacturing sector, and growing tech scene, Italy is an attractive destination for international companies seeking to tap into European talent and markets.
Capital
Rome
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Languages
Italian
Number of inhabitants
59,000,000
Ease of doing business
Very simple
Payroll frequency
Monthly
VAT - standard rate
22%
Timezone
GMT+1 (GMT+2 in summer)
Why Italy is an attractive option for hiring
Italy offers a rich business environment with a highly skilled workforce known for creativity, design excellence, and manufacturing expertise. As one of Europe's largest economies and a global leader in luxury goods, fashion, automotive, and food industries, Italy provides access to world-class talent across diverse sectors.
The country's strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean, excellent infrastructure, and well-developed transportation networks make it an ideal gateway to European and North African markets. Italy's strong tradition of craftsmanship, combined with growing innovation in technology and engineering, creates unique opportunities for businesses.
Italian workers are known for their creativity, technical skills, and strong work ethic. The country's excellent quality of life, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes make it an attractive destination for international talent. With competitive labor costs relative to productivity, a stable legal framework, and government incentives for business growth, Italy offers an excellent environment for companies looking to establish a European presence while enjoying world-class lifestyle and culture.
Employee Benefits
Effortlessly manage customized employee perks through our user-friendly online dashboard. Enhance your benefits program, all in just a few minutes.
National Health Service (SSN)
INPS Social Security
INAIL Insurance
TFR (Severance Fund)
Our Comprehensive Guide to Hiring in Italy
Explore the tabs below to gain in-depth insights into the process of hiring an employee in Italy.
Annual Leave (Ferie)
In Italy, employees are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks (20 working days) of paid annual leave per year, though most collective bargaining agreements (CCNL) provide for more generous entitlements. Leave accrues monthly and must be taken, as Italian law does not allow payment in lieu of vacation except upon termination of employment.
Maternity Leave (Congedo di Maternità)
Expecting mothers in Italy are entitled to 5 months of maternity leave: typically 2 months before the expected due date and 3 months after childbirth (flexible arrangements are possible). INPS pays 80% of salary during this period, with many employers topping up to 100% per CCNL. Mothers also have the right to an additional 6 months of optional parental leave.
Paternity Leave (Congedo di Paternità)
Fathers in Italy are entitled to 10 days of mandatory paternity leave, paid at 100% of salary by INPS. This leave must be taken within 5 months of the child's birth. Additional optional parental leave is also available.
Parental Leave (Congedo Parentale)
Both parents in Italy are entitled to parental leave until the child turns 12 years old. Each parent can take up to 6 months (or 10 months total between both parents, with an additional month bonus if the father takes at least 3 months). The first 9 months total are paid at 30% of salary by INPS.
Sick Leave (Malattia)
In Italy, INPS pays sick leave benefits starting from the 4th day of absence at 50% of average daily salary (up to 180 days per year). Employers typically supplement this amount per CCNL requirements, often reaching 100% of regular salary for the first days/weeks of illness. Employees must provide a medical certificate (certificato medico) from their doctor.
Ready to Hire in Italy?
Let our Italy experts handle the complexities while you focus on European expansion.