When an employer based outside the EU posts workers to Italy, Italian law requires the designation of a "referent" (referente) physically present in Italian territory. This person or entity acts as the liaison between the sending employer, the posted workers, and the Italian labor authorities. The referent must be able to provide labor inspectors with access to the documents required under the Posted Workers Directive (employment contract, payslips, proof of remuneration, A1 certificate, etc.).

The referent can be a natural person (e.g. an employee, a director of the host company, or a professional) or a legal entity (e.g. the Italian host company, a subsidiary, or a service provider). The designation is included in the distacco notification. We help non-EU employers identify and designate a suitable referent, prepare the necessary documentation, and ensure that the referent has the authority and access to fulfill their obligations. We can also act as referent for clients who do not have an existing presence in Italy.