In Italy, regions and ministries offer free certified courses for residents who want to qualify or return to the job market.
How free public training works in Italy
There is no single national catalog with all courses. Most free vocational training is organized by regions, using resources from the European Social Fund (ESF+) and national programs. That's why dates, courses, and rules vary from one region to another.
What they have in common is that these courses charge no enrollment fee and, when completed with minimum attendance and passing the final assessment, issue a recognized certificate.
Regional vocational training courses
Each region publishes calls with courses ranging from dozens to hundreds of hours, many including internships at companies. Upon completion, a qualification or skills certificate is issued.
GOL program for job seekers
The Garanzia di Occupabilità dei Lavoratori program offers guidance and courses for the unemployed and those receiving income support. Access is through the Centro per l'Impiego in your region.
Italian language and adult education courses
CPIAs, public adult education centers, offer free Italian language courses and allow people to complete compulsory education.
ITS Academy
These are two- or three-year post-secondary technical courses with significant company-based practice. They may have an enrollment fee, but scholarships and exemptions are available in many cases.
Who can take part
Requirements are listed in each course's call. Generally, the following can apply:
- Italian citizens and citizens of other EU countries residing in Italy.
- Foreign nationals with a valid permesso di soggiorno.
- Unemployed people or those registered with the Centro per l'Impiego.
- Workers who want to update their skills or change fields.
- Young people who have completed compulsory education.
Areas with more available courses
Regions typically direct resources toward sectors that are hiring. In 2026, courses in digital skills, logistics, tourism and hospitality, renewable energy, industrial maintenance, and elderly care—such as the socio-sanitary operator (OSS) course—appear frequently.
Before choosing, it's worth checking which professions are in demand in your province. A course aligned with local demand tends to open more doors, although no course guarantees employment.
See where to find certified courses →What to prepare before applying
Having these items ready prevents missing the deadline when the call opens:
- Valid identity document or passport.
- Codice fiscale.
- SPID or CIE to access public portals.
- Permesso di soggiorno, if you are not an EU citizen.
- Diplomas and an updated resume, preferably in the Europass format.
Frequently asked questions
Are the courses really free?
Courses funded by regions and the ESF+ charge no enrollment fee. Some programs, like ITS Academy, may have a fee, with scholarships for qualifying participants. Be wary of intermediaries charging fees.
Do I need to be an Italian citizen?
No. Foreign nationals with regular residence and a valid permesso di soggiorno can participate in most courses. Check each course's call for details.
Is the certificate valid throughout Italy?
Qualification certificates issued by entities accredited by the region are recognized throughout the country. Courses without accreditation may not carry the same weight.
Do I need to speak Italian?
Yes, most classes are in Italian and many courses require A2 or B1 level. CPIAs offer free Italian courses for those who need to prepare.
Are there online courses?
Yes. Part of the offering is distance or hybrid. Even online, attendance is recorded and counts toward the certificate.
Official websites to find courses
Tap on the website you want to open. They are public and free portals.