Sicily launches €54 million ‘South Working’ scheme to attract remote‑work talent

The regional government of Sicily activated the Irfis FinSicilia online platform on 30 June 2026 to receive applications for the “South Working” programme. The scheme aims to retain and encourage the return of qualified workers to the island by supporting remote‑work arrangements.

A total of €54 million is available, allocated in three annual tranches of €18 million for 2026‑2028. Employers that hire workers on permanent contracts—or convert temporary contracts into permanent ones—can receive a grant of €30 000 per worker, paid in five yearly instalments of €6 000. The work must be performed primarily from Sicily (no more than 20 % on‑site) and the employee must be resident in Sicily at the time of the grant. The employment relationship must have begun or been converted on or after 9 January 2026. Applications are submitted online on a first‑come, first‑served basis until funds are exhausted.

Regional President Renato Schifani said, “Stiamo investendo concretamente sul futuro della Sicilia… valorizziamo il lavoro agile come strumento di sviluppo economico e sociale”, emphasizing the goal of making Sicily more competitive and encouraging young talent to return to their roots.