Italy will provide jobs to 10,500 Pakistani citizens

In a historic development, the Italian government has allocated 10,500 employment opportunities specifically for Pakistanis wishing to work in Italy. The announcement was confirmed by Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development on Saturday, 27 December, marking the first time a European country has reserved jobs exclusively for Pakistani nationals.

According to the ministry, the job vacancies cover a wide range of sectors including shipbreaking, healthcare, and agriculture. In addition, skilled and semi-skilled Pakistani workers will be eligible for positions in welding, technical services, culinary professions, restaurant staffing, and domestic work. This initiative reflects a comprehensive effort to integrate Pakistani workers into diverse sectors of the Italian labour market.

The employment quota has been formalised through a bilateral agreement recently signed between the governments of Pakistan and Italy. Under this agreement, Italy will admit 3,500 Pakistani workers annually over the next three years, ensuring the full quota of 10,500 positions is met. This step is being hailed as a significant milestone in Pakistan’s engagement with European labour markets.

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Saleek Hussain, warmly welcomed Italy’s initiative. He described the agreement as “a landmark achievement for Pakistan,” emphasising that it provides Pakistani workers with a valuable opportunity to strengthen their presence in Europe’s labour market.

To ensure smooth implementation, a Pakistan-Italy Working Committee will commence operations from February 2026, jointly overseeing the recruitment, placement, and welfare of Pakistani workers in Italy. The committee will also facilitate training and orientation programmes to help Pakistani employees adapt to the Italian work environment and regulations.

Breakdown of Job Allocations by Sector:

The initiative is expected to enhance economic cooperation between the two nations while providing Pakistani workers with sustainable overseas employment opportunities. Saleek Hussain stressed that these measures will help Pakistani workers gain international experience, increase remittances, and establish stronger connections within European labour markets.