IMMIGRATION LAW IN ITALY AND RECENT CHANGES

ENTRANCE

Italy, one of the most important migration routes to the European Union, has had to revise its legal framework to cope with increasing waves of migration over the years. The pressure from irregular migrants, particularly those arriving via the Mediterranean, has led to new legal regulations concerning asylum and residence permits. This article will examine Italy's immigration law, practices, and recent legal changes in detail.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF IMMIGRATION LAW IN ITALY

Immigration law in Italy is largely regulated in accordance with European Union legislation. However, the following fundamental principles stand out in national legislation:

1. Residence and Work Permits: Non-EU citizens must obtain a residence permit to legally reside in Italy. A minimum of five years of legal residency is required to obtain a long-term residence permit.
2. Asylum and Refugee Status: Italy is a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention and recognizes the right to asylum. Asylum applications must be made in Italy, the first EU country of arrival for migrants (Dublin Regulation).
3. Social Integration of Immigrants: In Italy, language and integration courses are mandatory for immigrants wishing to stay long-term, and those with work permits can benefit from certain vocational programs.

RECENT LEGAL CHANGES

In recent years, Italy has implemented significant legal changes to combat irregular migration. Some of these are as follows:

1. Immigration and Security Laws (2023-2024):
   • Port closures were implemented to prevent irregular migrants from entering Italy by sea.
   • High fines have begun to be imposed on NGO ships carrying migrants.
   • The process for evaluating refugee applications has been accelerated.
2. Temporary Protection Status:
   • Italy granted temporary protection status to Ukrainian refugees following the war in Ukraine and has extended this practice to those coming from other conflict zones.
3. Reforms in Residence Permits:
   • Student, work, and family reunification residence permits are now subject to stricter controls.
   • New quotas have been set for obtaining work permits, and profession-based permits have been given priority.

CONCLUSION AND EVALUATION

Italy's immigration policies, while maintaining its commitment to international law with the aim of protecting human rights, are also focused on strengthening the fight against irregular migration. Given the recent changes, it appears that Italy has adopted a security-oriented approach to its immigration policies and is taking deterrent measures, particularly regarding illegal immigration.

Italy is likely to introduce new reforms to its immigration law in the future. In line with joint initiatives with the European Union and international legal norms, it is expected to develop more balanced policies regarding the legal integration of immigrants.