Italy Visa IT Pause, Skilled Worker Fast-Track & Portugal Citizenship Updates

Italy temporarily paused global visa processing for IT upgrades while fast-tracking entry for skilled non-EU workers. Meanwhile, Portugal considers revising its Nationality Law, signaling potential changes for investors.

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Key takeaways

Italian visa centers globally paused applications from February 11-18 for an IT system migration.

Italy has expedited the entry process for highly skilled non-EU workers.

INPS expanded family allowances for foreigners holding job-seeker residence permits.

Staff shortages at the Ancona immigration office are causing significant delays in residence permit processing.

Portugal is discussing revisions to its Nationality Law, prompting investors to act quickly.

Global IT Migration Pauses Italian Visa Processing

Italian visa application centers worldwide temporarily suspended the acceptance of new applications between February 11 and February 18. This global pause was implemented to facilitate a major IT system migration.

Applicants are advised to double-check visa center schedules as digital transitions may cause ongoing technical adjustments.

Expedited Entry for Highly Skilled Non-EU Workers

In a move to attract global talent, Italy has accelerated the entry process for qualified professionals from outside the European Union. This prioritization aims to streamline immigration for skilled workers, making the Italian labor market more accessible to international expertise.

INPS Expands Family Allowances for Job Seekers

The National Institute of Social Security (INPS) has broadened its support for foreign residents. Individuals holding a residence permit for job-seeking purposes are now eligible for expanded family allowances.

Eligible job seekers in Italy should apply through INPS to access these newly available family benefits.

Staff Shortages Delay Residence Permits in Ancona

Applicants processing their documents through the Ancona immigration office (Questura) should prepare for extended wait times. Severe staff shortages are currently threatening the processing schedules for residence permits.

Applicants are advised to factor in significant delays when planning their immigration timelines and to exercise patience during the application process.

Potential Changes to Portugal's Nationality Law

Beyond Italy, lawmakers in Portugal are actively discussing revisions to the country's Nationality Law. While specific changes are still under review, this serves as a critical signal for Golden Visa investors and prospective citizens to expedite their document collection before any new rules take effect.

Renewed Italy-Germany Migration Cooperation

A recent summit in Rome has injected new momentum into the migration cooperation between Italy and Germany. While political leaders have signaled a commitment to working together, immigrants and expats await concrete policy simplifications resulting from these diplomatic efforts.