Four in ten expatriates return to Italia; ‘a trend that is becoming established’

Over 129,000 young Italians have returned from abroad over the last five years, with a sharp upward trend compared with 2011. Data from the Fondazione Studi Consulenti del Lavoro report ‘The return of young people from abroad: figures and trends’ describe ‘a trend that is becoming established: the number of returns to Italia per 100 moves abroad was 26 in the five-year period 2011–2015, rising to 31 in the following five years, and is set to reach 40 between 2021 and 2025’. The figures relate to young people aged between 18 and 39 who have decided to return to Italia after spending time abroad.

The report describes them as ‘a small army that makes no fuss’. The average age at which they return is 29.6 years: mature young people who have probably decided to return home after a period of training or professional experience. According to a survey of a sample of Italians living abroad, 41.5 per cent cite these reasons as the basis for their decision to move abroad.

Surprisingly, amongst the destinations chosen by young professionals returning to Italia, the South is by no means bringing up the rear, accounting for 31.7 per cent of those returning. The decision to return to Italia often goes beyond considerations of salary alone, encompassing a broader sense of personal well-being.

Although the majority of returnees already had the security of a job upon their return, as many as 37 per cent only found work after returning to Italia. Looking back, those who decided to return home do not regret their choice: more than 70% say they are more satisfied with their personal situation, whilst 53.5% consider their professional situation to be the same or better.

Looking at the geographical breakdown of returnees, it is clear that the majority come from Germany and the United Kingdom, with 42 returnees for every 100 emigrants – well above the European average of 32.5.