The Contratto Collettivo Nazionale di Lavoro—the industry-wide collective bargaining agreement that governs wages, vacation time, working hours, and notice periods.

The Trattamento di Fine Rapporto—a severance payment that is paid out at the end of the employment relationship.

The Contratto Collettivo Nazionale di Lavoro—the industry-wide collective bargaining agreement that governs wages, vacation time, working hours, and notice periods.

The Trattamento di Fine Rapporto—a severance payment that is paid out at the end of the employment relationship.

Labor Law in Italy: Contracts, Paychecks, and Termination

Q: What is a busta paga?

The monthly pay stub. It shows gross pay, deductions (IRPEF and INPS contributions), and net pay.

Q: What is the tredicesima?

The 13th month's salary, which is paid in December. In some industries, there is also a "quattordicesima.".

Q: How much vacation time am I entitled to?

Usually about four weeks per year (vacation), plus paid time off (permessi/ROL)—the exact amounts are specified in the CCNL.

Q: How do I report sick?

With a doctor's note that is sent digitally to the INPS and your employer.

Q: Can my employer just fire me?

No. A licenziamento is permitted only for giusta causa or giustificato motivo, and a notice period (preavviso) applies.

Q: How do I give notice myself?

Regarding the mandatory online procedure for resignations; the notice period specified in the CCNL applies here as well.

Q: Who can help me with conflicts?

A union (sindacato) or a patronato provides advice and support—for example, in cases of termination or wage-related issues.

Anyone who is employed in Italy should know their rights: from the employment contract to the pay stub to termination. This guide explains the most important aspects of Italian labor law—including the key terms you’ll encounter on your contract and pay stub.

The Employment Contract

There are two main types of contracts: permanent (permanent) and temporary (fixed-term). Each contract refers to a CCNL (Contratto Collettivo Nazionale di Lavoro) – the industry-wide collective bargaining agreement, which governs wages, vacation time, working hours, and notice periods. At the start, a Trial period (probationary period).

Wages and Pay Stubs

The monthly pay stub is called busta paga. The gross annual salary is RAL. An Italian specialty: the 13th monthly salary (thirteenth) in December, and in some industries, a 14th month's salary as well (fourteenth). Tax (IRPEF) and social security contributions are deducted from the gross amount and paid to the INPS from.

Find a Job and Work in Italy

July 6, 2026

Working in Italy: Work permits for non-EU citizens (decreto flussi), job search via EURES and job portals, applying for jobs, recognition of degrees, language, and salaries.

Termination Pay, Vacation, and Sick Leave

TFR (Severance Pay): a type of severance payment that is accumulated over the years and paid out on the Termination of Employment is paid out.
Vacation (vacation): usually about four weeks per year, plus paid time off (permits/ROL).
Illness (illness): You need a doctor's note, which is submitted digitally to the INPS and your employer.

The Notice of Termination

One Termination by the Employer (dismissal) is permitted only for a valid reason – just cause (serious reason) or justifiable reason (e.g., for business reasons). If you resign (resignation), is this done through a mandatory Online Procedures. In both cases, a Notice Period (notice) according to the CCNL. If you lose your job through no fault of your own, this can NASpI Unemployment Benefits take action.

What You Need to Do Next

Before signing, make sure you understand the type of contract, the applicable CCNL, and the probationary period. Check your pay stub regularly (wages, contributions, vacation balance). In the event of a dispute or termination, a union can help (union) or a patronage. If you're still looking, you'll find tips in the guide Find a Job in Italy.