Information to work in this country is available from:

Irene Ricitelli Guarrella iricguar@tin.it

Procedures and/or documents that are necessary to be able to work in this country:

Applicants and graduates from schools of dental hygiene in the European Union are able to work in Italy with authorisation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Other applicants, including those from Canada and the United States will need to apply to the licensing body for advice. If a Canadian or US applicant is also an Italian citizen, then they may practice in Italy.

Contact for Work Permit and/or Visa:

The Italian Embassy/Consulate in the country of residence.

Is a job offer required before a Work Permit/Visa is issued?

Yes.

Main local and/or official language(s):

Italian. It is necessary to be fluent in this language.

Are hygienists qualified overseas required to sit the country's national examination?

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will look at qualifications upon application. If applicant’s training is considered equivalent to that in Italy, you may be given permission to practice.

Information on the local working environment:

Hygienists work under direct supervision of a dentist. Most are employed in private practice. The working week is approximately 40 hours.

Standard tasks that hygienists are allowed to undertake in the country:

Removal of supra and sub gingival deposits Polishing of teeth and amalgam fillings Application of fluorides and fissure sealants Oral health education.

Country Statistics

Total Population 56,000,000 Number of Dental Hygienists, Female / Male 1,400 / 50 Number of Dentists 23,000 Number of Dental Hygiene Schools / Students per year 23 / 200 Practicing Dental Hygienists: Full-time / Part-time 900 / 500 Dental Hygienists in private sector / public sector Almost all / 6 Number of Dental Hygienists in independent practice 3 Number of Dental Hygienists practicing as Clinicians Almost all Number of Dental Hygienists practicing as Educators 22 Hygienists practicing as Administrators and/or Consultants 6

Links to related web sites:

WHO Oral Health: Country/Area Profile Programme

Information based on data received by IFDH in:

2005

NOTE: The information provided above is for general guidance only. The International Federation of Dental Hygienists advises all hygienists to contact the country's relevant licensing bodies and agencies for current information and regulations. Search the database:

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