Relocation has analyzed the latest data on migration in Italy and identified a number of trends and features. As of the beginning of 2025, 5.2 million migrants officially reside in Italy, which is about 9% of the country’s total population of 58.5 million people. In our study, we rely on official data from the country. It should be borne in mind that, according to various estimates, about 4 million more migrants may reside in Italy illegally. Italy remains an important destination for migrants due to its geographical location, economic opportunities, and EU membership.
Migrants play a significant role in the country’s economy, taking jobs in sectors where there is a shortage of local labor.
Detailed analysis of the main groups of migrants
- Migrants from North Africa
- They number over 1.2 million people (almost a quarter of all migrants). The main countries of their origin: Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, and Algeria. Migrants from these countries are usually employed in agriculture (seasonal work in fruit and vegetable harvesting), in construction as general laborers, and in the service sector – cleaning, cargo transportation.
- The peculiarity of this group of North African migrants is that they are more active in the southern regions of the country, such as Puglia and Calabria, where agriculture plays a key role.
- Eastern European nationals
- Number: about 1-1.2 million people (20% of all migrants).
- The main countries of origin of this group of migrants are Romania, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova. The areas of employment of this group are diverse, but, as a rule, it is elderly care – more than 50% of those employed in this area are migrants from Eastern Europe, construction – highly skilled workers and craftsmen, services – cleaning, domestic staff, medical staff, hairdressers, massage and beauty salons.
- Thanks to cultural and geographical proximity, Eastern European migrants can easily integrate into Italian society, especially in the northern regions such as Lombardy and Veneto, as well as in the capital.
- Migrants from Asia
- The size of this group is about 800,000 to 900,000 people (15% of all migrants). The main countries of origin are China, the Philippines, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. The areas of employment are diverse, ranging from the restaurant business (chefs, waiters, restaurant staff) to the textile and shoe industry in the Tuscan regions (e.g., Pratto). The Chinese and other Asians are actively developing their small businesses, such as shops, restaurants, and laundries.
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- The number of this group is about 500,000 people. The main countries of origin are Syria, Afghanistan, Eritrea, and Somalia. The areas of employment are temporary agricultural work and unskilled labor in construction.
- Many of these migrants arrive by sea via the Mediterranean. Southern regions of Italy, such as Sicily. Unofficially, there may be about half a million more such migrants in Italy. Most often, these migrants move to Germany and northern Europe to receive social assistance.
- Migrants from Latin America
- The number of this group is at least 200,000 people, with the main countries of origin being Peru, Ecuador and Brazil.
- The areas of employment include cleaning, childcare, and construction. Migrants from Latin America most often work in large cities, such as Rome and Milan, due to existing communities and language proximity.
- EU citizens (excluding Eastern Europe) The number of this group is at least 500,000 (10% of all migrants). The main countries of origin are Germany, France, and Spain. Areas of employment IT, medicine, finance
- Education and science.
- Features: These migrants have the right to work freely in Italy, which simplifies their integration.
Employment of migrants by sector
Agriculture:
More than 30% of workers are migrants, mostly from North Africa and Eastern Europe.
The seasonal nature of the work makes this sector particularly dependent on migrants.
Construction:
About 20% of workers are migrants, especially from Albania, Ukraine and North Africa.
Services and domestic staff:
Migrants hold up to 60% of jobs, including cleaning, childcare, and elderly care.
Restaurant and hotel business:
A significant part of the staff (up to 40%) is made up of migrants from Asia and Eastern Europe.
Industry and manufacturing:
Asian migrants (especially Chinese) play a key role in the textile industry.
The system of assistance to migrants in Italy
Migrant reception centers:
In the south of the country, especially in Sicily and Lampedusa, there are centers for temporary accommodation of migrants. Social assistance is provided – financial support for refugees and asylum seekers, as well as integration programs: language courses, professional retraining. Children of migrants are entitled to free education in public schools. Free access to primary health care for all migrants, regardless of their status.
Migrants play an important role in the Italian economy, occupying key positions in agriculture, construction and services. However, the successful integration of these groups requires a comprehensive approach that includes social support, educational initiatives and legal protection. Efforts to improve conditions for migrants will help Italy not only maintain stability in the labor market, but also improve the overall economic climate.
Source: http://relocation.com.ua/analiz-migratsii-v-italii-ot-relocation/
ITALY, MIGRATION, RELOCATION
