Studying in Italy is not only a great way to learn the language but also an opportunity for working part-time in Italy and gain valuable experience. Imagine improving your Italian while earning extra money to support your stay. It’s a perfect way to practice the language, meet new people, but also understand if the Italian work culture is the right fit for you.
Before you start looking for jobs, it’s important to understand the rules. There are different steps and requirements for EU and non-EU students when it comes to working while studying. Let’s go over what you need to do to work legally as a student in Italy.
For EU/EEA students
As an EU or EEA (European Economic Area) student, you have the right to work in Italy without needing a work permit. However, there are still a few steps to make sure you’re working legally:
- Codice fiscale: You’ll need a codice fiscale, which is your Italian tax identification number. It’s required for signing contracts and getting paid. You can apply for it at the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency).
- Work hours: While there are no strict limits on how many hours EU students can work, balancing studies and work is important. Many students typically work around 20 hours per week.
- Employment contracts: Make sure the job you’re applying for offers a regular contract, even if it’s part-time. This ensures you have legal protection for your work and that you’re paid properly.
For non-EU students
If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll need to follow a few extra rules, but working part-time while studying is still possible.
- Study visa requirements: Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours per week on a student visa, which is capped at 1,040 hours per year. If you want to work more, you’d need to change your visa type.
- Codice fiscale: Like EU students, non-EU students also need a codice fiscale. You can apply for one at the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian revenue agency) or at the Italian embassy in your home country. This is essential for signing work contracts and getting paid. Check our dedicated article to find out more about codice fiscale.
- Permesso di soggiorno: Non-EU students must apply for a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 days of arriving in Italy. This is necessary for legally staying and working in the country during your studies. Check our dedicated article to find out how to apply for one.
- Additionally, many universities and schools offer job placement services, so ask for assistance if needed.
- Regular contract and protection: Like EU students, you must ensure that your job offers a regular contract. This guarantees legal protection for your work, proper pay, and access to benefits like TFR which is the end of the contract severance pay.
- Popular jobs for students: Working part-time in Italy roles couldbe working in cafes, restaurants, retail shops, or as language tutors. These jobs often offer flexible hours that fit well with student schedules.
Job search platform
Part-time jobs are listed on platforms like:
- Indeed.it
- Jobrapido
- Subito.it
- Glassdoor
Working part-time in Italy: Additional tips
- Language skills: Working part-time in Italy may require basic Italian, there are also opportunities in English-speaking environments, such as tutoring or working for international companies.
- Internships: Many students opt for internships, which can offer valuable work experience and networking opportunities. While some internships may be unpaid, they provide insights that can be useful for future career growth. Contact Go! Go! Italia to know more about Internship opportunities combined with language courses in Italy.
In summary:
- EU students: No work permit is needed for working part-time in Italy, but you must get a codice fiscale and ensure you have a regular contract for legal protection.
- Non-EU students: You can work up to 20 hours per week on a student visa. Make sure to apply for your codice fiscale, permesso di soggiorno, and secure a regular contract before starting a job.
Go! Go! Italia can help you find the right Italian city and school to study Italian, and assist you with the student visa process for free. Contact us!
