Italy’s Parliament has officially passed a groundbreaking bill that guarantees job protection for individuals battling cancer and other serious chronic or rare illnesses. The legislation, which received broad bipartisan support, covers both employees and self-employed workers, granting them the right to take leave or pause their work activities while undergoing treatment.

Starting January 1, 2026, eligible workers will be entitled to up to 24 months of leave—either continuous or split into segments—if they are diagnosed with cancer or another debilitating illness with a disability rating of at least 74%. During this time, employees will not receive a salary and are not permitted to engage in any kind of work, but their job positions will be preserved.