Italy's INPS Expands Heat‑Related Wage Support for Agricultural and Construction Workers

The Italian National Institute of Social Security (INPS) issued operational guidance (message 2418 dated 20 July 2026) on an expanded special wage‑subsidy scheme for agricultural employees affected by extreme summer heat. The measure, extending the Cassa Integrazione Straordinaria Agraria (CISOA) to both permanent and temporary farm workers, allows firms to suspend or reduce outdoor work and receive income support for affected staff until the end of the year.

In parallel, INPS clarified reinforced wage‑subsidy rules for workers in construction, quarrying, excavation and agriculture from 1 July to 31 December 2026. The new provisions let employers request ordinary wage‑subsidy (Cassa Integrazione Ordinaria) without counting the heat‑related periods toward the standard 52‑week limit, waive the usual 30‑day seniority requirement, and set application deadlines at the end of the month following the suspension.