The Number One Reason Foreigners Leave Italy

Damien O'Farrell
3 min readOct 12, 2023

Italy, with its captivating landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine, has always been a magnet for international wanderers seeking the charm of La Dolce Vita. However, for all its beauty and allure, many foreigners eventually make the choice to depart from its sun-kissed shores. Why? The answer, as borne out by three decades of observation, is predominantly financial or work-related reasons.

A Challenge in the Work Sphere

The core issue for many expatriates isn’t a cultural or social mismatch, but rather the hardships they encounter in the labor market. Whether it’s the difficulty of making ends meet or the daunting task of securing meaningful employment, the Italian job landscape often proves tougher than anticipated. This is especially true for individuals who relocated to Italy independently, rather than those who moved as part of intra-company transfers, or those affiliated with organizations like the UN or various embassies.

The Struggles of Underemployment

Imagine living in a country renowned for its leisurely pace and vibrant lifestyle, only to find yourself underemployed, reluctantly engaged in a job you’re not passionate about, or worse, in undeclared work. The latter is particularly disheartening as it offers no benefits or future pension contributions. For many, the dream of enjoying La Dolce Vita turns sour when they find themselves in such positions, which diminishes their quality of life and the overall experience of residing in Italy.

The Changing Job Landscape

It’s essential to note that the employment challenges aren’t unique to Italy. Like many parts of the world, old-school skills that were once in demand are rapidly being replaced or made obsolete. Technological advancements and changing global needs mean that the job market everywhere is evolving. However, those considering a move to Italy should be particularly vigilant about understanding which skills are currently sought after in the country, and more importantly, which ones command high salaries or rates.

Planning is Paramount

For those captivated by Italy’s charm and considering making it their home, the advice is clear: Plan, Plan, and Plan some more. The allure of a new country can sometimes blind potential expatriates to the practicalities of daily life, especially the financial and professional aspects. A well-thought-out strategy, combined with thorough research on the Italian labor market, can be the difference between a successful relocation and a challenging sojourn.

Ensuring La Dolce Vita Isn’t Just a Mirage

The pull of Italy, with its promise of a life soaked in culture and ease, is undeniable. But to translate that dream into a sustainable reality requires groundwork. Potential expatriates must equip themselves with a robust understanding of Italy’s job market, identifying niches where their skills can be both utilized and rewarded. Furthermore, a network, either through professional connections or local communities, can offer insights and opportunities that might otherwise remain elusive.

Italy, with its myriad offerings from gastronomy to art, will always remain an enticing prospect for those seeking a life less ordinary. However, the vision of a life well-lived, enriched by Italy’s many treasures, needs to be anchored in the pragmatism of sound professional planning. Only then can one truly savor the sweetness of La Dolce Vita, ensuring that the Italian dream doesn’t remain just a fleeting mirage, but becomes a lasting, cherished reality.

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Damien O'Farrell
Damien O'Farrell

Written by Damien O'Farrell

Global Mobility Specialist and Expat Coach with thirty plus years’ experience in providing high-touch immigration, relocation, & coaching services in Italy.

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