Italy’s welfare system depends on a workforce that often receives little public attention but plays an increasingly vital role in daily life. Domestic workers – including caregivers, housekeepers, and home assistants – have become essential to supporting an aging population and helping families manage growing care needs.
Recent studies estimate that by 2029 Italy will require at least 2.21 million domestic workers to meet demand for household assistance and long-term care. That figure represents an increase of approximately 122,000 workers compared with current projections. Nearly 69% of those expected to fill these roles are likely to be foreign-born, many from outside the European Union.
