Relocating for work typically requires a valid work visa, and the process varies by country. Some European nations have simplified their visa procedures, making it easier for foreign professionals to secure employment permits.

A work visa allows foreign nationals to live and work legally in another country. The specific type of visa depends on factors such as job position, skills, and employer sponsorship.

Applicants must submit the required documents, meet eligibility criteria, and comply with immigration rules. Countries with streamlined visa systems often use them to attract skilled workers and address labour shortages.

Iceland

Iceland is a popular choice due to its work-life balance and structured visa process. Applicants must secure a contract before applying for a visa. The country offers multiple work permits, including those for expert knowledge, labour shortages, athletes, family reunification, students, specialised employees on a service contract, and special reasons.

Latvia

Foreign nationals require a residence permit, type D visa, and work permit unless they are Latvian company shareholders, permanent residence holders, or managers of foreign companies representing a Latvian firm. EU nationals do not need a work permit but must apply for a residence permit if staying beyond 90 days. Work permit types include A type for Latvian employers, C and E types for intra-company transfers, D type for business visits, and a seasonal work visa for temporary employment.

Lithuania

Lithuania is attractive to immigrant workers. Applicants need a job offer before applying, and the employer submits the work permit application to the Lithuanian Labour Exchange. Some non-EU citizens can work without a permit if they meet high-level professional qualification requirements and obtain a decision on compliance with labour market needs, after which they apply for a temporary residence permit instead of a national visa or work visa.

Estonia

Estonia has a high rate of accepted work visa applications and receives fewer requests than other countries. Applicants can apply for a D visa for short-term projects or begin working immediately while applying for a residence permit upon arrival. Job opportunities are frequently posted on the Work in Estonia webpage.

Slovakia

Slovakia’s economic growth makes it an attractive destination for job seekers. Applicants typically require a single permit for residence and work, a work permit with temporary residence for employment or family reunification, or a long-term residence permit. Work visa options include a single permit requiring a reported job vacancy 20 days before applying, a work permit for family reunification cases, seasonal employment for up to 180 days, and an EU Blue Card for highly skilled professionals.

Czechia

Czechia attracts job seekers due to its economy and skilled workforce. Work visa options include an employee card issued for specific job positions for two years, an EU Blue Card for university graduates, an intra-company employee transfer card for transfers within multinational firms, a type D business visa for self-employed individuals, and special provisions for foreigners with free access to the labour market, such as family members of Blue Card holders or certain international students.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg offers various visa options, including a short-stay Schengen visa for business activities, a long-stay national visa for employment exceeding 90 days, and an EU Blue Card for highly skilled professionals working for over 12 months. The country has a high minimum wage and low unemployment rates.

Germany

Germany has a large and diverse workforce and welcomes immigrant workers through its visa system. Applicants can apply for a long-stay visa if they have a job offer, plan to establish a business or work as freelancers, seek employment upon arrival, participate in an au pair programme, or qualify for a working holiday visa under agreements with specific countries. The country has also introduced an ‘opportunity card’ allowing foreign nationals to enter and look for jobs without a prior offer. (The Nation)