Minimum Wage in Italy: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Italy?

As of August 2025, Italy remains one of the five EU countries without a national minimum wage, alongside Denmark, Austria, Finland, and Sweden.

Instead, minimum wages are determined through collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) at the sectoral level. These agreements, negotiated between trade unions and employer associations, set the baseline wages for the majority of employees in Italy. The average minimum wage resulting from these CBAs is approximately €7–9 per hour. However, actual wages can vary significantly depending on the industry, region, and specific agreements in place.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Italy?

In Italy, minimum wage standards are applied based on sector-specific collective bargaining agreements. Different categories of workers have their wages defined within these agreements.

Full-Time Employee Wages

For full-time employees, CBAs determine the minimum wage rates specific to their industry. The average minimum wage falls between €7–9 per hour, but variations exist based on industry economic conditions and negotiated agreements.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees receive wages on a pro-rata basis in relation to full-time positions, as outlined by CBAs. Their compensation is proportional to the number of hours worked compared to full-time employees.

Interns and Trainees

Whether interns and trainees are entitled to minimum wage depends on the specific CBA governing their industry. Some agreements provide for compensation, while others allow unpaid internships, especially those tied to educational or training programs.

Expats

Expatriates working in Italy are subject to the same CBAs as local employees. Their wages are determined within the framework of these agreements, without a separate minimum wage system for foreign workers.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Italy

Several factors influence how minimum wages are set in Italy, primarily through the CBAs.

Industry-Specific Variations

Different industries in Italy have varying minimum wage rates due to the decentralized system of CBAs. High-demand sectors like technology and finance may have higher wages, while industries such as agriculture or hospitality may have lower minimum wage thresholds.

Economic Conditions

Inflation rates, employment levels, and overall economic trends influence wage negotiations within CBAs. Periods of high inflation often increase pressure to raise minimum wages to maintain workers' purchasing power.

Government Policies and Legislation

While there is no statutory minimum wage, government policies indirectly impact wage negotiations. Italy's labor laws regulate CBAs, and ongoing discussions continue regarding the possible introduction of a national minimum wage.

Minimum Wage History and Trends in Italy

Italy has historically relied on CBAs rather than a statutory minimum wage. Discussions and proposals have been made to introduce a national minimum wage to address wage disparities. In 2019, a proposal suggested setting a national minimum wage at €9 per hour, but no legislation has been passed. As of 2025, sector-specific CBAs remain the primary method for setting wage standards.

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