Top 5 Visa for Working and Living in Europe

March 6, 2024

europe work visa

In 2024, the European Union’s economy is expected to grow by 1.7 percent, according to predictions from the European Commission. This growth is a good sign for job opportunities in Europe. If you’re not from a European Union country, this means there’s a chance for you to explore and find work in Europe. The growing economy suggests more job options, making it a good time for people from outside the EU to look for and benefit from work opportunities in Europe. So, it’s a great idea to consider exploring job opportunities in Europe with these 5 visas if you’re not a citizen of an EU country.

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  • EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card program is aimed at making Europe more appealing for professionals from countries outside the European Union. Almost all EU member states, except for Denmark and Ireland, issue the EU Blue Card. It operates as a merit-based system, considering individuals with adequate education or sought-after skills through professional experience. The EU Blue Card comes with several distinctive features that aim to position Europe as the top migration destination globally, offering working and salary conditions equal to nationals, free movement within the Schengen area, entitlement to socio-economic rights like unemployment benefits, favorable conditions for family reunification, a pathway to permanent residence, and freedom of association.

  • Job Seeker Visa – Sweden

The Sweden Job Seeker Visa is a temporary permit that lets you stay in Sweden for 3-9 months while hunting for a job. It’s for folks with valuable skills for Sweden but no job offer yet. You can’t work on this visa; its purpose is for job hunting or exploring starting your own business. If you land a job or start a business during your stay, you can apply for a work permit or a residence permit for self-employed individuals without leaving Sweden. But, if you don’t find a job or start a business within the visa’s timeframe, you’ll need to leave Sweden.

  • Germany Opportunity Card

The Opportunity Card, known as the “Chancenkarte,” provides candidates from non-EU countries the chance to enter Germany and search for a suitable job without the need for a permanent employment contract. This card is issued to individuals recognized as skilled workers or those scoring at least six points in the points system. To qualify, candidates must have guaranteed means of support for their stay and possess (at least) two years of vocational training or a university degree, along with proficiency in German (A1) or English (B2). The Opportunity Card simplifies the job search process in Germany by allowing applicants to work without a lengthy recognition procedure.

europe work visa

  • Austria Job Seeker Visa

The Austria job seeker visa is a special kind of visa that lets you come to Austria for up to six months to search for a job that fits your skills. During this time, you can check out the job market in Austria and connect with possible employers. It’s important to note that you cannot work or study using this visa. If you discover a job within six months, you can apply for a work permit and a residence permit to continue working and living in Austria. Additionally, you have the option to bring your family members along if you meet the requirements.

  • Job Seeker Visa – Portugal

The Portugal job seeker visa allows individuals to enter the country for 120 days, with an option to renew for an additional 60 days, for the sole purpose of searching for employment. During this period, the holder can engage in subordinate work activities and, upon securing employment, has the right to apply for a residence permit, provided they meet the general conditions specified in Article 77 of the Law. If the 180-day maximum validity of the visa expires without establishing employment or initiating the residence permit application, the visa holder must leave Portugal. Reapplication for the same purpose is only possible after a year from the previous visa’s expiration.

With the promising forecast of a 1.7 percent growth in the European Union’s economy in 2024, the continent presents a golden opportunity for individuals from outside the EU to explore work prospects. This growth not only indicates a robust job market but also emphasizes the need for skilled professionals. The outlined top five visas—EU Blue Card, Sweden Job Seeker Visa, Germany Opportunity Card, Austria Job Seeker Visa, and Portugal Job Seeker Visa—provide viable pathways for non-EU nationals to enter, explore, and potentially establish a career in Europe. Each visa has its unique features, catering to diverse preferences and qualifications. Globalogy’s Visa Expert can help you with any of these visas and settle in your dream country today.