With the rapid growth of online food delivery services, food home delivery jobs in Italy have become one of the most accessible employment options for both locals and foreigners. Companies like Glovo, Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat are expanding across Italy, creating thousands of delivery driver positions in both large cities and smaller towns.
For many foreigners, food delivery jobs offer flexible work hours, quick hiring processes, and an easy entry into the Italian job market. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about food delivery jobs in Italy, including requirements, salaries, visa information, and how to apply.
Visa and Work Permit Requirements
If you’re a non-EU citizen, you’ll need legal authorization to work in Italy. This usually means obtaining a valid work visa. Most food delivery companies hire workers under the Subordinate Work Visa (Lavoro Subordinato) or through self-employment permits if you plan to work as a freelance delivery driver (known as “rider autonomo”).
Two common legal pathways are:
-
Employment Contract: If hired directly by a company, your employer may sponsor your work permit.
-
Freelance Rider Permit: Many delivery drivers work as independent contractors. In this case, you may need a self-employment visa and register for tax purposes in Italy.
Regardless of which option you pursue, you must apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) after arriving in Italy to complete your legal work status.
Types of Food Delivery Jobs Available
Food delivery jobs in Italy can be divided into different categories based on the employment model and company:
App-Based Delivery Drivers
This is the most common type of food delivery job. Companies like Uber Eats, Glovo, Deliveroo, and Just Eat allow riders to sign up, accept orders via smartphone apps, and deliver food to customers.
Restaurant Delivery Drivers
Some restaurants, pizzerias, and cafes still employ in-house delivery drivers who deliver meals to local customers.
Grocery and Supermarket Delivery
Companies like Everli, Coop, Carrefour, and Esselunga hire drivers to deliver groceries to customers’ homes.
Package & Courier Services
Some courier services also handle food delivery for catering companies and corporate clients.
Where Are Food Delivery Jobs Available?
Food delivery jobs are widely available throughout Italy, especially in larger cities and tourist areas:
-
Rome
-
Milan
-
Naples
-
Florence
-
Turin
-
Bologna
-
Venice
Smaller towns and suburbs also offer delivery jobs, but most foreign workers find more opportunities in the larger cities where demand for delivery services is higher.
Basic Requirements to Work in Food Delivery
While food delivery jobs don’t require formal education or prior experience, you must meet some basic requirements:
-
Valid Work Permit and Residence Permit: Legal authorization is mandatory.
-
Bicycle, Scooter, or Car: Depending on the city, many deliveries are done by bicycle, scooter, or car.
-
Smartphone with Internet Access: Essential for receiving and managing orders.
-
Clean Criminal Record: Some companies may require a background check.
-
Physical Fitness: Delivery work can be physically demanding, especially for cyclists.
-
Basic Italian Language Skills: Helpful for navigation, customer interaction, and reading app instructions.
-
Driver’s License: Required for those using motor vehicles.
How to Apply for Food Delivery Jobs in Italy
Finding food delivery work is relatively simple. Many companies allow you to apply directly online:
1. App-Based Platforms:
-
Glovo
Apply online via Glovo’s website. After approval, you attend an onboarding session and receive delivery gear. -
Deliveroo
Register online, provide documents, and attend a brief online or in-person training. -
Uber Eats
Create an account, upload your documents, and once approved, you can start accepting orders. -
Just Eat
Some drivers work as contractors, while others may be hired directly as employees.
2. Direct Applications to Restaurants:
Many restaurants hire their own delivery drivers. You can approach local businesses with your CV and availability.
3. Recruitment Agencies:
Some staffing agencies list food delivery positions, especially for larger supermarket chains.
4. Online Job Portals:
Websites like Indeed Italia, Subito.it, and Jobrapido regularly post delivery job openings.
Salary Expectations for Food Delivery Jobs in Italy
Food delivery salaries in Italy can vary based on the company, city, and number of hours worked.
-
App-Based Delivery Drivers: Typically earn €7 to €12 per hour, depending on the number of orders and distance.
-
Restaurant Delivery Drivers: May earn a fixed monthly salary of €900 to €1,200, plus tips.
-
Grocery Delivery Drivers: May earn between €1,000 and €1,400 per month depending on company and contract type.
Many delivery drivers supplement their income with tips and bonus promotions offered by delivery apps during peak hours.
Cost of Living for Delivery Workers
The cost of living varies depending on the city:
-
Rent: €400 – €800 per month (shared accommodations are common).
-
Utilities: €50 – €120.
-
Groceries: €150 – €300.
-
Transportation and Maintenance: €30 – €70 (higher for motorbike or car users).
-
Personal Expenses: €50 – €100.
Most delivery workers manage their finances by sharing apartments, cooking at home, and optimizing their delivery routes to maximize earnings.
Working Conditions and Responsibilities
Food delivery jobs offer flexible working hours, allowing you to choose shifts that fit your schedule. However, you may face:
-
Heavy traffic, especially in big cities.
-
Bad weather conditions.
-
Long hours on weekends and holidays when order volumes are high.
Key responsibilities include:
-
Accepting and managing delivery orders via app.
-
Picking up food from restaurants or stores.
-
Delivering orders quickly and safely to customers.
-
Handling customer service politely and professionally.
-
Following traffic and safety laws.
Language Requirements
While some platforms allow you to work with minimal Italian, knowing the language will improve your performance. You’ll communicate with restaurant staff, handle occasional customer requests, and navigate addresses more easily.
Learning basic Italian phrases can also improve your chances of being hired by restaurants or supermarkets directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners apply for food delivery jobs in Italy?
Yes, as long as you have legal work authorization.
Do I need previous experience?
No, most companies train new riders during onboarding sessions.
Can I work full-time or part-time?
Yes, food delivery jobs offer flexible scheduling.
Do I need to own a vehicle?
In many cities, you can work using a bicycle, scooter, or car, depending on your preference.
Do I need to speak Italian?
Basic Italian is highly recommended but not always mandatory for app-based platforms.
Conclusion
Food home delivery jobs in Italy provide an excellent entry point into the job market for foreigners seeking flexible and immediate work opportunities. Whether you’re looking for part-time income or a full-time job, Italy’s expanding food delivery sector offers plenty of opportunities across major cities and towns.
By securing the proper visa, meeting company requirements, and taking advantage of growing demand, you can successfully start your career as a food delivery driver in Italy while enjoying the beauty and culture of this amazing country.
