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Italy's government has introduced new migration rules aimed at tackling irregular immigration while expanding legal pathways for non-EU workers. The decree includes increased work visa quotas as well as stricter regulations for NGOs involved in sea rescues.

On Wednesday, October 2, Rome adopted a new set of migration regulations under the "flows decree," which includes an increased quota for non-EU migrant workers permitted to work in Italy. This "experimental" extra quota for caregivers adds to the 452,000 work visas announced for the 2023-2025 period -- an increase of nearly 150 percent from the previous three years.

The government's goal is "to simplify procedures as much as possible, reduce waiting times, and at the same time establish clear rules that are harder to circumvent," explained Undersecretary to the Prime Minister, Alfredo Mantovano, during a press conference following the Council of Ministers on October 2.

'Buffer period' for seasonal workers extended to two months

Key elements of the decree include sector-specific click days (dedicated days for submitting online work permit requests for a set number of non-EU workers), the introduction of residence permits for victims of illegal labor exploitation, an additional 10,000 work slots for caregivers in 2025, stricter rules for NGOs using aircraft for sea patrols, and the inspection of mobile phones of undocumented migrants to help verify their identity.

One notable change is the extension of the "buffer period" for seasonal workers from 30 days to 60 days. This means that seasonal workers who complete their contracts will now have two months, rather than one, to find new employment before facing expulsion. This extension, which was initially opposed by the League party, was ultimately approved by the Council of Ministers.

The undersecretary also stressed that the decree is "the result of joint work between various ministries" without any "conflict."

Possible access to mobile phones for migrant identification

The decree also aims to streamline administrative procedures by introducing pre-filled application forms and sector-specific click days. "But our goal is to abolish the click day entirely," Mantovano stated, reiterating that there would be no amnesties for migrants, as the government remains committed to keeping its electoral promises.

Furthermore, the decree tightens anti-fraud measures in the migrant visa system. Prime Minister Meloni has voiced concerns that criminal groups, including the mafia, have infiltrated and exploited the visa system. As a result, stricter checks will be applied in 2025, especially for applications from countries deemed at higher risk of fraud, such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Additionally, new measures allow for the inspection of undocumented migrants’ mobile phones to determine their identity and country of origin. This inspection will require authorization from the judiciary.

Stricter rules for NGOs, they must follow third-party instructions

There are also new restrictions on NGOs monitoring maritime arrivals using aircraft. They will no longer be allowed to inform their vessels where to conduct potential rescues but must immediately report any emergency situations to the competent Air Traffic Services Authority and the responsible National Maritime Rescue Coordination Center. They must then follow their instructions.

This measure mirrors those already in place for NGO boats, which face fines and port restrictions if their rescue operations are deemed improperly coordinated with the coast guard.

Minister of Labor, Marina Calderone, highlighted efforts to combat illegal labor exploitation, stating that a special residence permit would be introduced for victims. This permit will have an initial duration of six months, renewable for up to a year or longer.

Unions and activists criticize the decree

The decree has been met with criticism from unions and migrant advocacy groups, including the "Ero straniero" campaign. The CGIL union described the decree as reinforcing the government's "restrictive and punitive" approach to immigration, similar to the earlier Cutro decree.

The UIL union calls for greater courage in supporting the victims of illegal labor exploitation: "We believe it is a just measure, but we think it's not enough because, beyond those who can report it, it's clear that we need to give these people a choice," and therefore "it's necessary to provide these workers in Italy with the opportunity to regularize their status."