In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to get off on the right foot: why the language is so important, which jobs require Italian, what level to start at, and how to practise in a simple and effective way. Let’s get started!
What level do you need to start looking for work
To start looking for work in Italy, in most cases, a level A2 or B1 is already sufficient to get by in everyday situations: reading a job advertisement, writing a simple email, handling a basic interview. With level A2, you can already understand common phrases and talk a little about yourself, your studies or experiences. B1, on the other hand, allows you to handle more complex conversations, better understand an employer’s requests and move around more independently.
If the job requires frequent contact with the public, such as in tourism or catering, it is important to be able to speak fluently and understand who you are talking to. But don’t worry, even if you’re starting from scratch, there are courses designed to help you reach the right level step by step.
Italy? Learning Italian to find a job even with a basic level
Imagine walking into a bar for a job interview: they ask you if you have any experience, your name, where you’re from. If you’ve studied a little Italian, you’ll be able to answer without freezing up, maybe with a few mistakes, but with a smile. And that makes all the difference!
Do you need a certificate to work in Italy?
In some specific cases, such as to obtain long-term residence permits or access certain public competitions, you may be required to prove your level of Italian with an official test, such as CELI, CILS or PLIDA.
Our School is a recognized center for PLIDA certification exams (Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri). The PLIDA exams can certify your competence in Italian as a foreign language. It tests your ability to use the language at different levels of complexity. From level A1 to level C2 of the Common European Framework of Reference.
These certificates assess your language skills in a standardised way, recognised nationally and internationally. They are not always mandatory, but they can be an advantage if you are looking for work in more structured contexts or want to officially prove your level.
Sectors where Italian really makes a difference
In some sectors, speaking Italian well is essential for getting hired or progressing in your career. Think of hospitality and tourism: hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, tour guides… interacting with customers fluently is crucial!
Even in the healthcare sector (home care, nursing or working in nursing homes) it is necessary to understand Italian to communicate with patients and colleagues.
The same goes for people working in shops, supermarkets, public offices, or any role that involves direct contact with the public. And then there are sectors like construction, logistics, and crafts, where knowing Italian can mean the difference between being sidelined or being given responsibilities.
Italy? Learning Italian to find a job that suits your goals
In short, knowing Italian opens more doors, in more contexts, and makes you feel more confident in every situation.
How can you learn Italian if you don’t have much time?
You don’t need hours of free time every day to learn Italian. Even just 15–20 minutes a day is enough if used well. You can take flexible online lessons, watch short videos with subtitles, or listen to podcasts in Italian while walking or during lunch breaks.
Another useful idea? Keep a small diary in Italian or use apps that help you memorise basic vocabulary and expressions.
The important thing is to choose a method that suits your schedule and allows you to practise every day without stress. And when you have more time, a structured course with a teacher can help you progress faster.
Italian and CVs: the right tips for writing a CV that stands out
Writing a CV in Italian can seem difficult, especially if it’s not your native language. But with a few tips, you can create a clear, professional, and truly effective CV:
- Choose a simple and clean format: recruiters appreciate clarity and brevity.
- Use short sentences, active verbs, and try to adapt your vocabulary to the job you’re applying for.
- Avoid automatic translations: they’re often too literal and may confuse the reader.
- Use sector-specific vocabulary correctly.
- Include your language skills using the CEFR level, e.g., “Italian: B1”, and if possible, add a short introduction in Italian.
One of our students wrote on their CV: “My name is Ahmed, I come from Egypt and I worked for three years in a restaurant in Alexandria. I’m now looking for an opportunity in Italy to grow and learn more.” A few simple, sincere lines in Italian and the employer immediately appreciated it.
A well-written CV in Italian shows your commitment to working and truly integrating in Italy!
Job interview in Italian? Here’s how to prepare without stress
Facing a job interview in Italian can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can feel much more confident.
For example:
- Learn to talk about who you are, what you studied, your work experience, and why you want to work in Italy.
- Practise speaking out loud, perhaps in front of a mirror or with a friend. Listening to videos or podcasts about job interviews can help you understand the right tone and expand your vocabulary.
One student from our course said she passed her first Italian job interview by “repeating the sentences we practised in class in my head and smiling even though my heart was racing.” And she got the job!
You don’t need perfect Italian. The important thing is to make yourself understood, show motivation, and keep a positive attitude. And don’t forget to smile!
Where to find courses designed for those looking for work in Italy
Today, there are specialised courses that combine language learning with practical job skills. IlCentro.net, for example, offers Italian courses for foreigners aimed at those who want to enter the Italian workforce. The lessons help you improve comprehension, speaking, and writing, but also teach you how to write a strong CV, prepare for interviews, and understand Italian work environments.
You can choose the course that best suits your time, goals, and the sector you’re interested in. With expert teachers, updated materials, and a practical approach, learning Italian becomes a real investment in your professional future.
Ready to take the first step? Italian can open more doors than you imagine
Learning Italian to find a job is truly a path to integrating into the country where you want to build your future.
Language is a powerful tool that helps you communicate, understand information, and feel more confident in your daily and professional life.
Every lesson is a step toward your goal. Whether you want to work in a café, an office, a school or an international company, knowing Italian will help you seize new opportunities, avoid mistakes, understand people better and present yourself with more confidence.
And there’s so much more: the Italian language is made up of words, articles, letters, topics linked to the country’s culture and traditions. Studying Italian also means understanding the context, knowing how to navigate everyday life, reading a schedule, writing a CV, and facing challenges with more tools. It’s a concrete answer to a real need.
IlCentro.net has designed Italian courses just for you, with a variety of programmes, texts, exercises, practical activities, expert teachers and all the support you need to face this challenge the right way.
Find the course that suits you best and start building your future today!
Every student has a different story. Some want to work in a restaurant, some dream of becoming a nurse, others hope for a career in fashion. But everyone, absolutely everyone, starts with their first Italian lesson. And that moment changes everything…