Free help, now
These organisations give free information and support. Contact one of them first.
Short answer
What caporalato is and free ways out for agricultural and logistics workers exploited by an intermediary.
Information, not legal advice. MovItaly is not a law firm. Check with the questura or consulate before you act.
What it is
Caporalato is when an intermediary (caporale) recruits workers, often in farming, logistics or construction, takes a cut, pays far below the contract and controls transport and housing. It is a crime under art. 603-bis of the Penal Code (VERIFY).
Warning signs
- Pay per crate or per day, well below the CCNL minimum.
- You pay for transport, housing or tools to the intermediary.
- No contract, no payslips, no rest days.
- Threats, withheld documents or debts you cannot repay.
Get help
- Anti-trafficking line 800 290 290: free, anonymous, multilingual. VERIFY.
- Unions with agriculture desks (FLAI CGIL, FAI CISL, UILA UIL) and Caritas: free help in many farming areas.
- INL: request an inspection. Call 112 if you are in danger.
- If the employer or caporale holds your passport, that is a serious offence: tell the helpline.
Keep evidence
Photos of the workplace and vehicle (number plate), messages, names, dates, places and who paid you what.
Sources
- Numero Verde Antitratta 800 290 290 (Presidenza del Consiglio - Dipartimento Pari Opportunita)
- Ispettorato Nazionale del Lavoro - contatti e richiesta di intervento ispettivo (INL)
- Codice penale art. 603-bis (intermediazione illecita e sfruttamento del lavoro) (Normattiva)
