Employment in Italy is called lavoro subordinato when a worker performs duties under an employer's direction and organization. This differs from genuine self-employment, where the person normally controls how the service is organized. The employment contract is called a contratto di lavoro. It should make essential terms clear, including the parties, duties, workplace, working time, pay, start date, and expected duration. A common distinction is between an open-ended contract, contratto a tempo indeterminato, and a fixed-term contract, contratto a tempo determinato. Part-time work concerns working hours and can exist with either type. A probationary period may be agreed at the beginning. Its terms should be written clearly because probation affects how the early employment relationship can end. Many employees are covered by a sectoral CCNL. The relevant agreement and the employee's livello or classification influence pay structure, leave, notice, and other conditions. Employees receive a busta paga showing gross earnings, deductions, social contributions, and net pay. Employment also builds records relevant to social protection and pension rights. Work must be formally registered, and the employee should not rely only on an oral promise or cash payment. Undeclared work, called lavoro nero, can leave the worker without reliable proof and protection. Employment can end through resignation, dismissal, expiry of a valid fixed term, or an agreed separation. Each route has formal consequences, so written notices and records matter.
Employment in Italy
Employment in Italy is generally based on a subordinate working relationship called lavoro subordinato. An employee works under an employer's organization in return for pay and normally receives social insurance and employment protections. The written contract, applicable CCNL, and payslips explain how the relationship works in practice.
Tip
Do not judge an Italian job only by the net amount mentioned in conversation. Check the contract type, CCNL, level, hours, gross pay structure, probation, and workplace before signing. Once work begins, compare every payslip and payment with the agreed terms.

