Italian Army extends VFI recruitment drive to July 28 for 3,200 volunteers

The Italian Army has prolonged the public competition for 3,200 Volontario in Ferma Iniziale (VFI) positions until 28 July. The call targets young Italians aged 18‑24 and will be conducted at selection centres in Foligno, Bari, Milan, Palermo and Rome.

Candidates must pass physical‑efficiency tests, medical‑psychological examinations and an aptitude exam. Of the total spots, 78 are earmarked for technical roles such as electrician, mechanic, carpenter and aircraft technician. Successful VFI enlist for an initial three‑year term, with the option of annual extensions. After 12 months they may apply for police careers, and after 24 months they become eligible for a three‑year fixed‑term posting in the armed forces.

Applications are accepted exclusively via the defence portal using SPID or an electronic ID card, with additional support from a dedicated recruiter and the Army’s virtual avatars Atena and Ettore.