Intracompany transfer to Italy from non-EU countries are now able to take advantage of two- to three-week work permit processing, pursuant to a new fast-track procedure implemented by the Ministry of Interior. The standard work permit process, which includes approval from the Italian Labour Board, can take two to five months.

With the fast-track process, employers file applications online and, once the application is approved, the foreign national applies at an Italian consulate for the work visa.

While the fast track procedure is meant to make the process more efficient, significant documentation requirements remain for both the employer and the transferee. To register for the online fast-track system, employers must submit corporate documentation and sign an agreement with the Ministry, agreeing to compliance requirements. After entering Italy on the work visa, the transferee must sign a Contract of Stay within eight days of entry and afterwards file a Permit of Stay application. The transferee must provide certain legalized and official documents.