Over the last five years, 4 out of 10 expats have returned to Italy after working in Germany or the UK. And 32% of them chose to return to the South.

Quality of life and stability

According to a study by the Fondazione Studi Consulenti del Lavoro, the main drivers for returning are quality of life, personal satisfaction, and the search for greater stability. However, returning does not mean being willing to accept the same conditions that prompted them to leave in the first place: top demands include fair compensation, equal professional opportunities, and a better work-life balance.

Brain drain and salaries

The brain drain continues to be fueled by difficulties entering the job market, job insecurity, and often uncompetitive wages. In fact, Gen Z earns an average of 36.4% less than those over 50, even in the same roles.

Remote work

In this scenario, full remote work could be part of the answer. Yet, while for many workers the ability to work remotely means being able to choose where to live without sacrificing professional opportunities, this model seems to be appearing less and less in job postings, in favor of hybrid or fully on-site arrangements.

How can Italy become more attractive to talent?

The paradox is clear: there is an effort to combat brain drain, but how willing are we to make the jobs that expats find upon their return truly competitive?

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