Italy, with its advanced public health system and extensive pharmacy network, is one of the attractive destinations in Europe for skilled pharmacists. The pharmacy network in Italy is very important; according to 2021 statistics, the country has an average of 1.24 pharmacists per 1000 inhabitants—a figure higher than the global average.
In recent years, the role of pharmacists in the health system has increased, especially after the coronavirus pandemic, and pharmacies have increasingly become centers for providing health and prevention services. Therefore, Extra UE pharmacists with valid and specialized knowledge have a good opportunity to be present in this professional market.
Is Italy facing a shortage of pharmacists?
Italy is not currently facing a severe shortage of pharmacists, but there is a relative need for specialist pharmacists, especially in small and rural areas. The role of pharmacists in the country’s health system has expanded to include consultation services, vaccinations, and pharmaceutical care. Also, with the aging of the population and the retirement of current pharmacists, more job opportunities are being created for qualified pharmacists, including immigrants.
In conclusion, it can be said that although a severe and critical shortage of pharmacists has not been reported in Italy, there is definitely a structural need to attract qualified pharmacists – especially those with suitable experience and university education. This trend is particularly considered a serious opportunity for immigrant pharmacists from countries like Iran to enter the Italian pharmaceutical job market.
Required fields and roles for pharmacists in Italy
In the Italian pharmaceutical job market, various types of specializations and roles are welcomed, in which graduates and professionals can work:
- Community Pharmacists: Active in local pharmacies, providing pharmaceutical advice, administering vaccinations, health tests, and primary care to clients.
- Hospital Pharmacists: Responsible for the procurement, storage, and distribution of specialized medications within hospitals, consulting with doctors and the medical team, and monitoring medication use.
- Clinical Pharmacists: A member of the patient's medical care team in hospitals and clinics, focusing on medication review and drug interactions, and improving treatment for specific patients.
- Industrial / Research Pharmacists: Active in research and development departments, pharmaceutical production, and industrial companies, carrying out research projects and quality control.
- Regulatory Affairs Pharmacists: Responsible for ensuring drug production complies with national and European laws and regulations, preparing drug registration dossiers, and communicating with regulatory bodies.
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative / Consultant: Active in companies or pharmaceutical sales centers, providing specialized information to doctors and pharmacies, and scientifically promoting pharmaceutical products.
- Academic Pharmacists: Active in universities and educational centers, teaching pharmaceutical sciences, developing scientific research, and managing educational laboratories.
- Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance: Oversees the reliable and safe production of pharmaceutical products. Supervises in factories, verifies the quality of processes and pharmaceutical standards.
Free consultation: Our specialists will guide you through the visa application stages and answer your questions free of charge.
Conditions for pharmacist work immigration to Italy
If you are a pharmacist and intend to immigrate to Italy, you must first be aware of the immigration conditions and requirements. Familiarity with these conditions helps you make a more precise decision and enter the practical stages with full preparation. Below, we examine the conditions for Extra UE pharmacist work immigration to Italy:
General conditions for pharmacists
- Valid and assessable educational degree: Having an official pharmacy degree from accredited in your country universities is the main prerequisite. These degrees must be officially translatable in Iran and recognized by the Italian Ministry of Health in Italy.
- Work experience (preferably at least 3 years): Having work experience in pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies, or reputable medical centers significantly increases the chance of receiving a job offer and work permit approval.
- Proficiency in the Italian language: Proficiency in Italian is one of the main conditions. In this profession, pharmacists are in direct contact with doctors and patients, so you must have the ability to understand and express the Italian language at level B2 or higher.
- No criminal record: Providing a certificate of no criminal record to obtain a work visa and residence permit.
- Physical and mental health: Being in complete good health to perform the medical profession, confirmed by a medical certificate.
- Verification of qualifications by the Italian Ministry of Health and an oral interview.
- Registration with the Italian Pharmacists’ Association (FOFI).
- Providing an official job offer: From an Italian pharmacy, medical center, or pharmaceutical company.
Age
There is no specific age limit for work immigration, but generally priority is given to individuals under 45 years old. This issue is particularly important for pharmacists who work in hospitals or medical centers.
Residency and accompanying family conditions
- After obtaining a work visa and entering Italy, you must apply for a work residence permit (Permesso di soggiorno) within a maximum of 8 days.
- It is possible to apply for accompanying residence for a spouse and children.
- After 5 years of legal residence and paying taxes, it is possible to convert temporary residence to permanent residence.
Workplaces for pharmacists in Italy
Pharmacists in Italy play an important role in the health system and their workplace can be in various environments. A significant portion of pharmacists work in public (Farmacia) and private pharmacies, which are spread throughout Italian cities and rural areas. These pharmacies operate under the strict supervision of the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA), and pharmacists in them are responsible for the preparation, dispensing, and consultation regarding medications.
In addition, pharmacists can also work in hospitals, specialized clinics, and pharmaceutical companies or distributors. In hospitals, they are part of the medical team, involved in medication management, monitoring drug interactions, and overseeing the correct use of medicines.
Other job opportunities also exist in the field of pharmaceutical research and development, quality control laboratories, and even in local health departments and regulatory bodies. Depending on the level of education, work experience, and proficiency in Italian, the areas of work for pharmacists may differ. Also, due to Italy’s aging population, the demand for pharmacists specializing in medications for chronic diseases and long-term care is increasing.
Reasons for pharmacists' immigration to Italy
1. The Italian health system’s need for pharmacists
Italy faces a shortage of pharmacists due to the increasing elderly population and the need for specialized medications. It is predicted that by 2030, Italy will need a large number of new pharmacists. This has created many job opportunities for immigrant pharmacists, especially from countries with reputable educational systems.
2. Attractive income and financial benefits
The monthly income of a pharmacist in Italy typically ranges between 2,500 and over 4,000 euros, which is much higher than income in Iran. In addition, Italian pharmacists enjoy good job benefits such as health insurance, job security, and paid leave.
3. Stable job opportunities and the possibility of obtaining residency
After qualifying their degrees and obtaining a work permit, pharmacists can officially work in public and private pharmacies and medical centers in Italy. This also paves the way for obtaining permanent residence and Italian citizenship after a few years.
4. Support for immigrants and facilitation of processes
In recent years, Italian agencies and employers, in collaboration with Iranian educational institutions, have facilitated the process of Italian language training, degree equivalency, and adaptation to the Italian pharmacy system. This support helps Iranian pharmacists enter the Italian job market with minimal difficulty.
Advantages of pharmacist immigration to Italy
Immigration of pharmacists to Italy can bring attractive and beneficial opportunities. Pharmacists who have studied in Extra UE and intend to enter the Italian healthcare job market can benefit from the following advantages:
- Employment in a reputable European healthcare system: Italy, as one of the most advanced countries in Europe in the field of health and treatment, provides an excellent opportunity for pharmacists to operate in prestigious health systems.
- Obtaining work residency and a path towards permanent residence: After obtaining a work visa, pharmacists can begin legal residence in Italy and, after a few years, apply for permanent residence and even citizenship.
- Competitive income and job security: The average income of pharmacists in Italy is between 2,500 and 4,000 euros per month, which brings very attractive economic benefits and high job security.
- Possibility of applying for an accompanying visa for the family: Pharmacists can apply for an accompanying visa for their spouse, children, and even in some cases their parents, and have their family with them.
- Living in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe: Italy, with its beautiful nature, rich culture, delicious food, and long history, provides favorable living conditions for immigrants.
- Access to specialized training and prestigious fellowships: Pharmacists can benefit from specialized courses and research opportunities in reputable Italian scientific centers, and continuously advance in their profession.
Immigration to Italy is not only an opportunity for professional development but also provides excellent living standards and quality of life for pharmacists and their families.
Stages of pharmacist immigration to Italy
The stages of pharmacist immigration to Italy, similar to other healthcare professions, require going through specific legal and administrative procedures. Pharmacists who intend to immigrate to Italy must go through the following processes:
Evaluation and Equivalency of Educational Qualifications (Riconoscimento dei Titoli)
- Official translation of documents into Italian.
- Obtaining a Declaration of Value from the Italian Embassy in your country.
- Sending the documents to the Italian Ministry of Health (Ministero della Salute) for verification of your qualifications.
- If approved, registration with the Pharmacists' Association (Ordine dei Farmacisti) is mandatory.
Proof of proficiency in the Italian language
Since healthcare personnel are in direct contact with patients, proficiency in the Italian language is a key requirement. Usually, a language certificate at level B1 or B2, and even C1 (depending on the job and region) is needed.
2Receiving a job offer from an employer (Offerta di lavoro)
After your qualifications and language skills are verified, you must receive a job offer from a reputable employer (pharmacy, hospital, or medical center) in Italy. This offer must include details such as job title, type of contract, salary and benefits, working hours, and insurance.
3Application for a work permit (Nulla Osta)
At this stage, the employer must apply for a work permit for you through the Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione. The necessary documents for this application: proposed work contract – your identification and professional documents – the result of your educational qualification evaluation – information about your insurance and accommodation in Italy.
If the application is accepted, a Nulla Osta is issued to the employer and a copy is also sent to the Italian Embassy in your country.
4Obtaining a work visa (Visto per lavoro subordinato)
After the Nulla Osta is issued, you can go to the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your country and apply for a Type D visa. Required documents: visa application form – valid passport – issued work permit (Nulla Osta) – job offer – translated educational documents – preliminary health insurance – certificate of no criminal record.
The type of visa may vary depending on the type of job, contract duration, or immigration pathway, such as the Blue Card.
5Entry into Italy and obtaining a work residence permit
After entering Italy with a work visa:
- You must go to the immigration police office within a maximum of 8 days and apply for a residence permit.
- This permit is usually issued for 1 to 2 years based on the duration of your work contract and is renewable.
Summary:
Each of these steps requires careful follow-up, proper documentation, and communication with official bodies.
If you need specialized consultation to obtain a work permit in Italy as a doctor or any other healthcare professional, our experienced experts at PAREX company will be proudly by your side.
Equivalency of pharmacist qualifications in Italy (Riconoscimento titolo di farmacista)
To work legally as a pharmacist in Italy, the first step is to have your educational qualification recognized within the Italian health system. This process is known as educational qualification equivalency and is carried out by the Italian Ministry of Health (Ministero della Salute). The main steps for pharmacist degree equivalency are as follows:
- Pharmacy degree, transcripts, and other educational documents must be officially translated into Italian.
- Translations must be authenticated by the Italian Embassy in your country or an official translator approved by the court in Italy.
- Obtaining an educational qualification statement of value: (Dichiarazione di Valore) This document is issued by the Italian Embassy in your country and indicates the standing of your university degree in the country of origin.
- A formal request is sent to the Italian Ministry of Health along with translated documents, relevant forms, and fees.
- The review process may take between 2 to 4 months.
- The Italian Ministry of Health compares your education, specialization, and work experience with Italian standards.
- If there is an educational gap, you will be asked to: participate in a compensatory course or take a skills assessment exam (Prova attitudinale) at a selected university.
After equivalency and qualification approval, you must register with the Italian Pharmacists’ Association to be legally authorized to practice in pharmacies and medical centers.
- Italian language level B2 or higher is mandatory for the equivalency of a pharmacy degree.
- Translated documents and their originals must always be presented together.
- This approval is valid for starting work for 2 years.
- After these steps, you can apply for a job offer, work permit, and work visa.
Required documents for pharmacist work immigration to Italy
Educational and professional documents
- University pharmacy degree along with official academic transcripts
- Certificate of completion of studies and pharmacy establishment (if applicable)
- Membership card from the Iranian Pharmacists’ Association
- Certificate of work experience (if you have worked in a pharmacy or hospital)
- Italian language certificate: at least level B2, preferably an official certificate such as CELI or CILS
- Complete CV translated into Italian or English
Administrative and legal documents
- Passport with at least 12 months validity
- Certificate of no criminal record
- Medical certificate (Medical Certificate)
- Official translation of all documents into Italian, authenticated by the Italian Embassy
- Declaration of Value or CIMEA for educational qualifications
- Official job offer from a hospital or clinic in Italy
- Work permit (Nulla Osta) issued by the employer
Costs of pharmacist immigration to Italy
- Official translation of documents and legalization/embassy attestation = approximately 200 to 400 euros
- Degree equivalency process (Esame di Stato) = approximately 100 euros
- Cost for each Italian language exam for levels B1 and B2 = approximately 150 euros
- National visa issuance = 116 euros + 30 euros
- Membership in the Italian Pharmacists’ Association (Ordine dei Farmacisti) = approximately 100 euros
- Flight ticket and initial travel expenses = at least 400 to 1000 euros
- Initial accommodation costs in Italy per month = 400 to 1000 euros per month
Income of pharmacists in Italy
Visalibrary reports that the minimum salary for pharmacists ranges from EUR 2,550 to EUR 7,500, with an average of EUR 4,900 per month. The breakdown by experience is as follows:
- Less than 2 years: approximately EUR 2,900
- 2–5 years: approximately EUR 3,890
- 5–10 years: approximately EUR 5,050
- 10–15 years: approximately EUR 6,120
- 15–20 years: approximately EUR 6,690
- More than 20 years: approximately EUR 7,030
Income breakdown by job position
Staff Pharmacist: According to Salary Explorer (2024), gross monthly salary ranges from a minimum of 2,800 euros for an inexperienced pharmacist to 7-10 thousand euros for pharmacists with 10-20 years of experience.
Hospital Pharmacist: According to Glassdoor (November 2024), the average annual salary for hospital pharmacists is approximately EUR 30,000 (between EUR 28,000 and EUR 31,000).
Industrial / Research Pharmacist (Research/Clinical Pharmacist): Sources like Radviser provide specific combined annual salaries:
- Research Pharmacist: EUR 50,000
- In a children’s hospital: EUR 51,500
- Some specialty pharmacies: between EUR 32,000 and EUR 46,000
Salaries in different cities
Glassdoor (Milan 2025): Average annual salary for a pharmacist in Milan is about EUR 30,000, with a range between EUR 22,000 and EUR 38,750.
Real experiences from pharmacists (Reddit)
- A pharmacist with 12 years of experience in Florence earned around EUR 25,000 – EUR 30,000 gross per year; net monthly approximately EUR 1,600 – EUR 1,800.
- A head pharmacist in a public pharmacy reported a gross monthly salary of about EUR 4,650 and a net salary including meal vouchers of EUR 3,031.
Summary comparison table
| Job position / Conditions | Approximate gross annual/monthly salary |
| Staff Pharmacist (new) | EUR 2,840 / month |
| Staff Pharmacist (20+ years experience) | EUR 6,900 / month |
| Public Pharmacist (average) | EUR 46,280 / year |
| Private Pharmacist | EUR 44,180 / year |
| Hospital Pharmacist | EUR 30,000 / year |
| Research or Specialty Pharmacist | EUR 50,000 / year |
| City of Milan (average) | EUR 30,000 / year |
| Approximate annual salary increase | 7% |
| Real experience – Florence (12 years exp) | EUR 25,000 – EUR 30,000 / year |
| Real experience – Pharmacy Manager | EUR 4,650 / month gross |
Residence in Italy for the applicant's spouse and children (accompanying visa)
A person who has work residency in Italy can, upon meeting the necessary conditions and providing the required documents, apply for residency in Italy for their spouse, children under 17, and parents over 65. This residency is of the family reunification type and is not issued simultaneously with the main applicant's permit, but the application process for the family's residence begins after the issuance of the main applicant's first residence card. Here we explain the important points of the family reunification visa.
- Timeframe: Approximately 6 to 12 months from the day of application to receiving the residence visa and traveling to Italy for the applicant.
- Main applicant conditions: The applicant must have obtained a residence card, a residency permit, or an Italian national ID card – must have housing with a formal contract of adequate size and living standards for all family members – must have sufficient income to support their family.
- Residence for the applicant's parents: At least 65 years old – must not have another child in Iran – must be financially supported by their child.
Employment status for family members (spouse and children)
- Spouse's residence: After arrival, can obtain permission for self-employment – The spouse does not need to have a specific job offer and can work in any job in Italy.
- Children's residence: Residence permit and free education in Italian schools – Access to free healthcare services – Possibility of obtaining citizenship in the future.
Free consultation: Our specialists will guide you through the visa application stages and answer your questions free of charge.
Important information and explanations regarding Italian residency and passport
Permanent residence: Work immigration to Italy is one of the most reliable paths to obtaining permanent residence and eventually Italian citizenship. After 5 years of temporary residence in Italy, you can obtain permanent residence in this country. The conditions for obtaining permanent residence include: having an A2 Italian language certificate, residing in Italy, and having a minimum declared income in Italy for 3 consecutive years to cover living expenses.
Italian passport: The validity of the Italian passport ranks second in the world, even higher than the UK, Canada, and the USA. Usually, after 10 years of living and residing in Italy, you can apply for it. The conditions for obtaining an Italian passport and citizenship include: having a B1 Italian language certificate, residing in Italy, having no criminal record in Italy and Iran, and having a minimum declared income in Italy for 3 consecutive years to cover living expenses.
PAREX services for obtaining Italian residency for healthcare personnel.
- Providing an official job offer from an Italian hospital or medical center
- Equivalency of your qualifications at the Italian Ministry of Health
- Registering you with the Italian Order of Surgeons and Dentists
- Continuous Italian language training for you and your family by PAREX
- Assistance with preparing, translating, and legalizing all your documents
- The process of obtaining permanent residence and Italian citizenship for PAREX clients
- Enrolling children in Italian nurseries and schools
- Consultation and support for renting or purchasing a car, home, and workplace