Jobs in Venice, Italy

Venice is actually quite a small city, with a residential population just over 250,000 inhabitants combining the mainland and the historic city. However, its immense popularity as one of Italy’s tourist centers means that the streets are always lively with visitors from all over the world. If you are seeking work abroad in Venice, then the thriving tourism and hospitality industries would be a good place to begin your search. 

There are also many jobs in Venice for international workers who are interested in working as a teacher or in childcare. These positions tend to be temporary (usually for a year or two) and are focused around teaching English to local residents or au pairing for local families. 

Venice is also a wonderful place to find work if you are interested in art or craftsmanship. The city has a rich and storied tradition in these areas, and artists young or old can not help but be inspired by the incredible scenic beauty and cultural stimulation that Venice offers. Jobs in the arts include those related to music, painting, and theater. 

For most jobs in Venice, you will be expected to know Italian, but since Venice is such an internationally renowned city, there are also some positions that only require workers to speak English. Nevertheless brushing up on your Italian to become at least conversational will be a great boost to your life as an expat in Venice.

Living and working in Venice you will find yourself in what is often considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the whole world. The city in its entirety (along with the Venetian Lagoon) have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there is a terrific amount of wonderfully preserved architecture in the Venetian Gothic style that will never cease to leave you in awe.

The most distinguishing mark of Venice is that there are no cars allowed on the islands of the historical city, and locals instead transport themselves via the intricate system of canals. The city is actually a cluster of 117 small islands which are interconnected by hundreds of bridges. When you tire of exploring the infinite nooks and crannies of Venice by walking, hop on a water taxi, water bus, or gondola to easily ferry from destination to destination.

The city is also very well known for its thriving cultural and artistic leadership in the areas of music, fashion, and craftsmanship. Especially famous for its fine glasswork and mask making, there are dozens of festivals and marketplaces which allow local artisans to show off their work in Venice. Most famous is the Carnival of Venice held every winter, an elaborate costume celebration that brings travellers from all over the world to the city to partake in the event.

Your salary will obviously vary depending on what industry you find yourself working in Venice. Those who plan on moving permanently to Venice and beginning a career can often find jobs with good pay and benefits, while those working temporarily abroad as an educator or in childcare can typically expect to earn less, but be compensated in other ways, such as room and board.

Italy uses the Euro, making travel within nearby countries easily accessible. The historical city of Venice can be quite expensive because it is such a popular tourist destination, but you will find that regions on the mainland and on other islands are much more affordable.

Finding an apartment in the historical city of Venice will be significantly more expensive than living on the mainland metropolitan area. It is possible also to simply rent out a room in a flat if you are planning on living and working abroad in Venice only temporarily. Many employers will help you to locate and secure housing while organizing your travel and employment details.

Residents of the European Union will not have to immediately apply for a visa to work abroad in Venice, while those coming from outside of Europe will likely need a working and/or residential visa. Your local employer will have to endorse you for this, so communicate with them early on about the feasibility and best way to go about obtaining a visa to work in Venice.

Working abroad in Venice remains a dream for most who never bring themselves to make the leap, but those who are ambitious and dedicated enough have the potential to make this dream a reality. The subject of tales of romance and intrigue all throughout history, there is something truly special about Venice which gives it a magical aura to most visitors. As an expat in Venice you will have the rare opportunity to experience the real Venice, which lies beneath the romanticism, a place exceedingly rich in culture and beauty which will inspire you to great heights.