As the Italian government prepares to publish implementing rules for its latest Migration and International Protection Decree, the national Guarantor for Infancy and Adolescence has reassured NGOs and local authorities that safeguards for unaccompanied foreign minors will remain intact. Speaking on 18 February 2026, Marina Terragni said the decree’s tougher measures against irregular migration—including shorter deadlines for adult detention and faster deportation procedures—will exclude minors from accelerated repatriation.
Italy currently hosts about 17,000 unaccompanied minors, 80 % of whom are aged 16-17 and 90 % of whom are boys. Under existing law they benefit from “amministrativa di proseguimento”, a special residence pathway that provides accommodation, schooling and guardian support until age 21. Terragni confirmed the pathway survives, though reporting requirements for social-service agencies will tighten, obliging them to document integration steps more rigorously within 19 days instead of 21.
![New Migration Decree Will Not Affect Italy’s 17,000 Unaccompanied Minors, Child-Rights Watchdog Says]()
For NGOs and guardians needing reliable information on the travel documents or visa categories that might apply to these minors—as well as for companies arranging staff visits to reception centers—VisaHQ offers clear, up-to-date guidance and application support. Their Italy page (https://www.visahq.com/italy/) consolidates the latest requirements for entry visas, residence permits, and document legalization, helping stakeholders stay compliant while the new rules evolve.
One potential flash-point is the decree’s proposal to transfer competence for assisted voluntary return from juvenile courts to prefectures. The Guarantor acknowledged legal scholars’ concerns but argued that returns will still be voluntary and subject to prior approval from juvenile judges, ensuring judicial oversight.
For international companies funding CSR projects or operating reception facilities, the statement removes immediate uncertainty over staffing and licensing. However, practitioners caution that implementing guidelines—expected by April—could yet alter funding streams and reporting templates.
Italy currently hosts about 17,000 unaccompanied minors, 80 % of whom are aged 16-17 and 90 % of whom are boys. Under existing law they benefit from “amministrativa di proseguimento”, a special residence pathway that provides accommodation, schooling and guardian support until age 21. Terragni confirmed the pathway survives, though reporting requirements for social-service agencies will tighten, obliging them to document integration steps more rigorously within 19 days instead of 21.
For NGOs and guardians needing reliable information on the travel documents or visa categories that might apply to these minors—as well as for companies arranging staff visits to reception centers—VisaHQ offers clear, up-to-date guidance and application support. Their Italy page (https://www.visahq.com/italy/) consolidates the latest requirements for entry visas, residence permits, and document legalization, helping stakeholders stay compliant while the new rules evolve.
One potential flash-point is the decree’s proposal to transfer competence for assisted voluntary return from juvenile courts to prefectures. The Guarantor acknowledged legal scholars’ concerns but argued that returns will still be voluntary and subject to prior approval from juvenile judges, ensuring judicial oversight.
For international companies funding CSR projects or operating reception facilities, the statement removes immediate uncertainty over staffing and licensing. However, practitioners caution that implementing guidelines—expected by April—could yet alter funding streams and reporting templates.
