Work and employment rights in Italy
Basic information about contracts, payslips, social-security contributions, safety and help against exploitation.
Before starting work
A regular employment relationship should be officially reported and governed by a contract. The applicable collective agreement sets many rules on classification, pay, hours, leave and notice.
Foreign workers with regular residence status have equal treatment rights in working conditions. Fundamental protections concerning safety, pay and exploitation also matter when documents or the employment relationship are irregular.
What to do
1. Read the contract
Check job, level, hours, workplace, start date, duration, probation and collective agreement.
2. Check payslips
Compare recorded hours, pay, deductions, contributions and leave with the work actually performed.
3. Keep payment evidence
Save bank statements, receipts and messages. Do not sign for money you did not receive.
4. Check contributions
Use INPS services to review your contribution record and ask a union or patronato about missing periods.
Before you start
- Keep your passport and permit with you; an employer should not retain them.
- You are entitled to health and safety protections.
- Record working days and hours in a safe place.
- Ask a union or labour inspectorate for help if you are threatened or underpaid.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim wages without a written contract?
Work does not become unpaid because the employer failed to regularise it. Ask for help reconstructing hours and payments.
Can an employer keep my residence permit?
No. Personal documents must remain with you.
Where can I get help?
Trade unions, qualified associations, labour professionals and the National Labour Inspectorate have different roles. In immediate danger call 112.
Need a first orientation?
Ask Sportellino in your language, then verify the information with the responsible authority.