European Union Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a specialised residence permit and work authorisation designed to attract highly skilled people outside the EU and EEA, including US citizens. It aims to address skill shortages and contribute to the EU’s competitive edge by making it easier for qualified workers to migrate. It allows you to reside and work in any of the 25 EU Member States participating in the programme (all 27 except Denmark and Ireland).

These are some EU Blue Card benefits:

• Faster permanent residency:  An EU Blue Card allows you to apply for permanent residency after just 33 months of legal residence in the issuing country — which is significantly faster than the typical timeframe for permanent residency through regular work permits.
• Family reunification: The Blue Card allows you to sponsor family members (spouse and children) to join you in the EU country.
• Reduced sponsorship dependence: With an EU Blue Card, you don’t need Visa sponsorship from a company, while with a regular work permit, companies often act as sponsors, initiating the visa application process on your behalf.

To get an EU Blue Card, you basically need three things:

• High qualifications: A university degree (or equivalent) and often at least 5 years of relevant work experience — Certain EU countries have a “positive list” of professions that are in high demand due to a shortage of qualified workers and jobs on these lists often match well with the EU Blue Card criteria —.
• A solid job offer: A salaried position in the EU that lasts at least a year and pays a high salary (above 1.5 times the national average).
• The essentials, in order: Valid travel documents, health insurance, and proof that you meet any licensing requirements for your profession (if applicable).

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Which countries are in the European Economic Area?

We mentioned earlier that the Blue Card is for non-EU and non-EEA citizens. All 27 European Union countries are also European Economic Area countries. Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway are the only countries in the European Economic Area that are not members of the European Union. And remember that Ireland and Denmark don’t participate in the Blue Card program.

 

Specific Work Permits per Country

It’s important to understand that the European Union Blue Card doesn’t replace the specific work permits each country requires. So, if a country needs a particular work permit for a certain job or industry, someone with the EU Blue Card will still need to get that permit.

However, having the EU Blue Card can make it easier to get these specific permits. With it, you’ve already proven you have a university degree or equivalent qualification.

 Having cleared this up, let’s have a look at each country’s work permits in detail.

 

Germany

Germany not only offers visas to qualified non-EU citizens who are already employed but also has one visa for self-employment and another one for jobseekers. Moreover, if you’re a tech professional, Germany is an excellent option for you to relocate as they offer a special visa for IT professionals. Let’s discuss each of them in detail:

• Work visa for qualified professionals: This visa is for people with a job. It has four requirements: a tertiary degree previously recognised in Germany, a specific job offer from an employer in Germany for a qualified position, a licence if your job is a regulated profession, and, if you’re over 45 years old and going to work in the country for the first time, your job must pay at least €49,830 annually or provide adequate pension provision. For your reference, Germany’s average IT salary in 2024 was slightly above €55,000.
• Visa for IT professionals: Even without formal qualifications or a university degree, you can still secure a visa and work as an IT specialist in Germany. This is because IT workers are in high demand in the country.
• Visa for self-employment: Also known as the Freelance Visa, this permit is for those who want to set up their own business or work as freelancers in Germany. To apply, you must present a detailed business plan, demonstrate sufficient funds and have relevant experience.
• Visa for jobseekers: The visa for jobseekers can be granted for a duration of up to six months. To get this visa, you must show your vocational or academic training qualifications, recognised in Germany or equivalent to a German degree. Also, if you have vocational training, you must demonstrate at least B1-level German language skills. Plus, you’ll need to prove you can cover living expenses, as you can’t work during this time. This can be done through a Sperrkonto, which is a “blocked bank account,” or a Declaration of Commitment.

Austria

To work as a non-EU citizen in Austria, there are three options:

• Work Permit + Residence Permit: This is the general route, but the application process can involve both you and your employer, as this permit is tied to a specific job and employer — who usually has to initiate the application. Its validity can range from months to years.
• Red-White-Red Card (RWRC): This program is aimed at skilled professionals in fields that align with Austria’s economic needs. It’s divided into three categories: Highly Qualified Workers, Graduates, and Shortage Occupations, each with specific requirements. To qualify, you must meet certain criteria and score enough points based on factors like education, work experience, and language skills. You can apply directly via the Austrian authorities if you have a job offer. It’s valid for up to two years and can be renewed, with a chance for permanent residency later on.
• Jobseeker Visa: This temporary visa allows you to enter Austria and search for a job for a limited period, max. 6 months. It doesn’t guarantee employment and might restrict your ability to work while searching. However, it can be a starting point if you don’t have a job offer yet.

Keep in mind that currently, it’s tough for new foreign workers to find jobs in Austria because there are few openings. This is because Austria wants to make sure its economy stays stable and doesn’t experience boom-and-bust cycles. So, if you’re a non-EU citizen seeking employment there, keep a backup plan in sight.

 

The Netherlands

As a non-EU citizen in the Netherlands, you can get what they call a “Residence permit for work as a highly skilled migrant”. Here’s a quick overview of what it consists of:

• Eligibility: You need a university degree, a job offer with a salary higher than €35,736, and sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and those of any dependents. Additionally, your employer must be recognised by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Certain healthcare professions also require registration with the BIG Register.
• Benefits: Live and work legally in the Netherlands, bring your family along, apply for permanent residency after residing for 5 years and access similar social security and healthcare benefits as Dutch citizens.
• Details: Your employer will initiate the application process on your behalf. Remember that fees will be applicable, and specific documentation will be required. And if you don’t add the “The” before the words Netherlands or Hague, you’ll be guilty of a spelling mistake. Those are important details to look out for.

Moving to the Netherlands for a Tech Job: The Ultimate Guide →

 

Spain

There are three types of visas in case you want to relocate to Spain. Let’s see what sets them apart:

• Highly Qualified Migrant (HQM) Visa: This visa is designed for highly skilled professionals with a university degree, and a minimum salary that varies depending on the specific profession and the region where you’ll be working in. It allows you to live and work in Spain for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of renewing for an additional three years. After five years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
• Intra-corporate Transfer (ICT) Visa: This visa is designed for employees who are being transferred within the same company for international assignments lasting at least three months. It allows you to live and work in Spain for the duration of your assignment, up to a maximum of four years.
• Digital Nomad Visa: Introduced in January 2023, this visa option is designed for non-EU/EEA citizens who want to live in Spain and work remotely for companies outside Spain. It’s initially valid for 1 year, though it can be shorter if your employment contract lasts less than a year. To apply for this visa, you’ll need to show you can work remotely, have enough funds, and potentially meet minimum income and experience thresholds in your field.

United Kingdom

The Blue Card program doesn’t exist in the UK, but there are other avenues for obtaining work permits based on your talent. International hiring in the UK can be pretty complex, especially after Brexit.

The Skilled Worker Visa is your ticket to work in the UK for the long term. Let’s see its implications and requirements:

You’re eligible if:

• You have a job offer from a licensed UK company (sponsored by them).
• Your job is needed in the UK (check the Shortage Occupation List), or you earn well (£25,600+).
• You can speak English well enough (basic test).

Its benefits:

• Live and work in the UK for up to 5 years (you can extend this one).
• Bring your family with you (spouse and kids).

Take into account that the application process takes time, so apply well in advance.

 

Moving to London for a Tech Job: Mahdi’s Relocation Story →

 

Ireland

In Ireland, there are two options you can rely on, which depend on your kind of job: the General Employment Permit and the Critical Skills Employment Permit. The first one is very popular among jobseekers because it covers more types of jobs than other permits and can be obtained for a one-year work contract. Any job listed under the Critical Skills Occupations List (CSOL) qualifies for this permit.

Let’s explore them both in more detail:

• General Employment Permit (GEP): The GEP opens doors to work in Ireland for professionals in occupations facing labour shortages. However, your job offer must be in an eligible field and meet a minimum salary threshold. Processing takes around 4–8 weeks, and the permit initially lasts 2 years, renewable for up to 3 more. Employers must sponsor you, and your family may join under certain conditions. While not as fast as the Critical Skills route, don’t sleep on the GEP.
• Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP): Do you possess highly sought-after skills listed on the Critical Skills Occupation List? Then the CSEP could be your express route to working in Ireland. This expedited permit offers faster processing times and is aimed at professionals in critical sectors such as technology, engineering and life sciences. You’ll need to meet a higher minimum salary specific to your occupation, and the initial permit lasts 2 years and is renewable indefinitely.

Portugal

Northern Europeans will confirm that Portugal is a great country to relocate to, as the Portuguese are incredibly friendly and welcoming towards immigrants, and it’s a very affordable country. It’s easy to move around there even if you don’t speak their language. Portuguese usually have no trouble making themselves understood and making an effort to understand you as well. Also, a significant economic advantage of Portugal is its low taxes. Not to mention the food, which, if you like fish, will fascinate you.

So, willing to live and work in Portugal with advanced skills in your pocket? Consider the Highly Qualified Activity Visa (HQAV). This option, known as the Article 90 visa, is directed to non-EU citizens.

To obtain this permit, you’ll need:

• Qualifications: Hold a university degree.
• Financial stability: Prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself in Portugal. It’s unclear how much they’re asking for in 2024.
• Employment offer: Secure a Portuguese employer’s official employment contract or commitment letter.
• Clean record: Provide a criminal background check.
• Health clearance: Obtain a health certificate for your application.
• Documentation: Assemble necessary documents like your passport, travel insurance and proof of qualifications.
• A bit of cash: This visa could cost you between  €75 and €90.

Initially granted for two years, the visa offers the possibility of extensions in three-year increments, potentially leading to permanent residency after five years. This visa also allows you to bring your family.

 

Is the Portugal Article 90 visa only for investors?

No, the Article 90 visa is not a golden visa. Some outlets suggest this visa, labelled Article 90 by the Portuguese government, is a golden visa. Allegedly, you obtain this visa by investing more than €250,000 in the country. Still, if you read the details on the government’s official website, the Article 90 visa is for highly qualified activities, not for investors. It’s unclear if other outlets got lost in translation when they claimed this one was for investors. Or they could have mixed this one up with the 90-A visa, which is a golden visa indeed.

 

Switzerland

While Switzerland might seem closed off to immigrants, there’s still a path for skilled non-EU/EFTA citizens like managers, specialists, and experienced graduates. The key lies in being highly qualified and finding an employer who recognises your value.

Here’s what you need to know:

Getting the Job: The process is employer-driven. To get your permit, your future employer must prove that hiring you benefits Switzerland economically and that they can’t find suitable personnel locally or from EU/EFTA member states. 

The Permit Process:

• Work permits are mandatory for all non-EU/EFTA citizens, even for short-term work. The government limits the number of permits issued each year.
• If you’re self-employed, you’ll need to take charge of the application yourself.

Depending on your nationality, you might also need a visa alongside the work permit. For more information, check the State Secretariat for Migration’s website.

 

Get European work permits with the help of an employer

The best way to get your permits is through an employer, and the best way to find that employer might be through Relocate.me, a platform and niche job board that connects tech companies with IT jobseekers who are willing to move abroad. Every company that posts a job ad on Relocate.me will hire internationally and help employees relocate.

What are you waiting for? If you’re a worker looking to relocate and be hired internationally, take a look at our job board.

 

What is the Easiest European Country to Get a Working Holiday Visa Agreement?

Estonia 

Perhaps surprisingly, the easiest European country to get a work visa in 2024 is Estonia, a small coastal country south of Finland. Rapidly evolving as the ultimate digital nomad hotspot, there’s a beautiful blend of history, digital innovation, and culture that has turned the heads of many.

What’s more, in just a simple two-step dance, your work visa awaits.

Start with a D work visa for short gigs of working abroad or apply for a residence permit for those nomadic plans with staying power. Accompanied by a registered Estonian employer, a valid work contract, and a clean bill of health, you’re all set.

And that’s all there is to it! See what we mean about it being easy? The stats actually back this up, too, with a staggeringly high approval rate of 87%, signalling a robust welcome to global talent.

Find out more information here on the official website.

Not feeling Estonia? Don’t worry; there are plenty more opportunities out there in some pretty great countries.

 

France

France is a beloved country for a reason.

Culture. History. Music. Beautiful urban and rural spaces. Connectivity. Opportunity. The list of what makes France such a great country to live in just keeps going, and actually doing just that is easier than you may think.

To start with, if you only plan for your trip to last below 90 days, France rolls out its short-term work visa, complete with flexible exemptions reflecting your work nature.

However, there are working holiday Visa programs that can cover you for up to a year—just look for the ‘Travailleur Temporaire’ visa. As you’ll find with most of these work visa programs, you will need a valid contract of a confirmed job already, and you’ll be good to go.

Oh, and another reason why France is so attractive, the real belle of the ball, so to speak.

The inclusive family provisions. France’s work visas extend to your family, giving them a residence and work permit to your spouse and kids on the spot.

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

The Netherlands

Ranked as the 5th happiest nation globally, it’s no surprise that The Netherlands is as magnetic as it is flourishing, attracting job seekers and foreign workers from around the world. And with cities like Amsterdam, access to some of the best schools in the world, and being one of the tech hubs of Europe, there’s a lot going for this relatively tiny country.

Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to get a work visa to enjoy all this.

If you’re in the exceptionally smart crowd—think recent grads from top universities or those who have delved into profound scientific research—the Orientation Year visa is your golden ticket.

It grants you the freedom to work and live in The Netherlands for a year, bypassing the need for separate work or temporary residence permits. It’s an open field for the world’s brightest to sow their seeds of expertise.

Entrepreneurs, especially from the US, also listen up: The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) is practically a direct invitation to the Dutch market, boasting some interestingly minimal barriers to entry.

You can basically establish and operate a business with more ease than you’d find in a tulip field.

But, if you’re looking for something a little less niche, there are TWV and GVVA work permits suited to a range of professions and intended work durations. Whether your plans are brief or as long as a Dutch winter night, there are plenty of easy opportunities to sink your teeth into.

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

Sweden

As long as you have a job offer in hand, navigating the Swedish professional arena is akin to a breezy sail across Lake Siljan. That’s right, to get a work visa in Sweden is pretty simple on your part, but there are some requirements.

Most importantly, you need a contract, and your future employer needs to have explored local and EU/EEA markets by the country’s regulations. However, if this is all fine, what follows is the employer-initiated application with employment and potential employee details—meaning you don’t have to worry about the details – it’s all taken care of on your behalf.

Post-acceptance, it’s relocation time!

As you’d expect, Sweden sweetens the deal with family permits processed simultaneously, which is great for family moves.

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

Lithuania

Lithuania, a Baltic gem, is launched by a local job offer and propelled by employer initiative, significantly reducing your workload, handling nearly everything on your behalf. Thus, it’s a pretty simple process as long as you can get the job.

The work visa type will depend on the job you get and will break down into one of the following:

• Work visa for highly skilled workers (EU Blue Card) 
• Work visa for intra-company transfers. 
• Work permit for employment in Lithuania.
• Seasonal work visa.

Once the permit is granted, you’ll need to apply for the permit in your own country. However, if you’re from inside the EU or the EEA, you can work in the country for free as long as you register your stay within three months of being there.

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

Iceland

Iceland, with its breathtaking vistas and treasured work-life symmetry, is transforming into a hotspot for global highly skilled professionals. But it’s more than just the raw natural beauty—what’s endearing is the organized, supportive work immigration framework that rolls out the carpet for those with the right skill set.

The sturdy foundation here is a signed employment contract with an Icelandic firm. Get your hands on one of those, and you’re all set to apply for a work permit and then to start your work abroad. It’s your passport to a career in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Whether you’re carrying a briefcase filled with expertise for high-skill occupations or a similar potent skill set, Iceland’s door is open.

Work-life harmony, a progressive work culture, unparalleled safety, coupled with incredible landscapes—what we’ve got here, folks, is a 360° lifestyle experience, truly setting Iceland apart as a work destination.

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

Latvia

Latvia’s meteoric economic ascent has cultivated a work permit ecosystem that’s flexible and caters to myriad professionals—local employers and visiting business mavens alike.

Here, work permits are crafted around individual job role requirements. To live and work in Latvia, you need to secure a Type D visa and a residence permit.

Though the process might involve a few checks, it culminates in a custom work permit for employment and residency. It’s Latvia’s way of embracing global talent and nurturing a diverse workforce that fortifies the nation’s economic backbone.

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

Slovakia

Slovakia isn’t just your next travel destination—it’s becoming the go-to for career explorers globally. Imagine settling in an evolving European economy full of thrilling opportunities, and you’ll see why it’s grabbing the international limelight.

Search ‘Living the Slovakian dream’ online, and you’ll stumble upon the ‘single permit’. Bingo! Well, that’s your golden ticket, allowing you to live and work under the backdrop of Slovakia’s beautiful vistas, all based on a job prospect. This magic permit does double duty, replacing your old-school separate work and residence permits.

And don’t forget about the seasonal work stint. Yes, it’s a thing in Slovakia—designed for gigs that don’t cross the 180-day mark annually. It’s their way of keeping things interesting, offering roles from short flings to long-term commitments.

So, why choose Slovakia? You’re part of an exciting economic growth story woven with both work and wanderlust. One day, you’re pitching business proposals, and the next, you’re hiking in the High Tatras—now, that’s living!

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

Luxembourg

Sitting atop a high standard of living and a stable economic climate, Luxembourg is a magnet for immigrant workers. But there’s more to the story—its work visa process is flexible, efficient, and tailored to suit different job seekers.

Work Visa Options:

• Catering to short-term and long-term job aspirations
• Requiring job contracts to kick-start the permit process
• Employer-led registration through the National Employment Agency (ADEM)

Luxembourg also boasts Europe’s highest minimum wage, making it a worker’s paradise. With a consistently low unemployment rate over four decades, it’s hard not to see Luxembourg as a bountiful job market.

So why consider Luxembourg? You’re stepping into a world of outstanding work prospects, all within a supportive socio-economic backdrop.

Find out more information here on the official website.

 

Czechia

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Czechia’s booming economy and strategic spot on the map make it a must-consider work destination. Whether you’re a savvy professional seeking new career horizons or a global business exploring expansion, Czechia’s irresistible vibe is calling.

Right, work visa wise, you could best describe Czechia’s work immigration system as a versatile mesh of permits designed to flex around different professional needs.

You’ll find options such as the Employee Card, EU Blue Card, business visa, and the intra-company Employee Transfer Card. That’s just Czechia for you.

The Employee Card, an exclusive option for non-EU citizens, is tied to a specific job and employer and doubles up as both a work permit and a residency permit. Mix in the EU Blue Card for those top-tier talents or the ETC as an option for those transferring in, and you’ve got some pretty simple options.

Find out more information here on the official website.

Wrapping it up: Time to Get a Work Visa

And there we have it – your complete lowdown on some of the easiest countries to get a work visa from. As you can see, there are plenty of opportunities out there, and it really depends on the country you want to go to, the value you can provide to said country, and the kind of job you can secure.

Of course, each country has its own working holiday visa website, so you should definitely check that out for the most up-to-date information and your preferred next steps, but aside from that, the world’s your oyster!

The absolute best way to move overseas is with a job. Being sponsored by a company provides you with access to work visas and long-term stay. It’s even better when the company covers the cost of your move with relocation support. You can find relocation jobs in Europe and the US on our niche job board. 

 

Understanding the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, officially part of the broader Startup Law, is a significant initiative aimed at attracting non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain while working remotely. This visa is specifically designed to meet the needs of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees by providing them with a legal framework to reside in Spain for extended periods.

The Digital Nomad Visa offers a practical solution for remote professionals who want to experience the Spanish lifestyle while maintaining their employment with companies outside of Spain. This visa represents a shift in immigration policy, recognizing the contributions and economic potential of digital nomads to the local economy. By offering this visa, Spain aims to attract a diverse pool of talent, fostering an environment of innovation and creativity.

The initiative aligns with Spain’s broader goals of becoming a hub for startups and tech-savvy professionals, contributing to the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

 

Requirements for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

To qualify for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

1. Remote Employment: Applicants must work for a company based outside Spain or be self-employed with clients primarily outside Spain. Additionally, only 20% of their total income can come from within Spain.
2. Proof of Employment: If employed, applicants need to provide a contract of employment and evidence that their work can be performed remotely. Freelancers must show contracts or commissions from clients outside Spain. In both cases, the digital nomad must have had a working relationship with their client or employer for at least three months prior to the application.
3. Minimum Income: There is a minimum income threshold, which is €2,646 per month, or €31,752 annually, as of 2024. This ensures that applicants can support themselves while living in Spain.
4. Background Check: A clean criminal record is essential. Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate from their home country and any country that have lived in, in the last five years.
5. Health Insurance: Full-coverage private health insurance in Spain is mandatory.

 

Steps to Obtain the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain

The process of obtaining the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps.

Start by gathering all necessary documents, including proof of employment, income statements, health insurance, and accommodation details.

You can apply from either your home country or Spain while on a student visa. If you’re applying from your home country, you’ll need to visit the Spanish consulate there.

You’ll receive a one-year visa, renewable for a three-year residence permit. However, if you apply from Spain, you’ll directly receive a three-year residence permit.

The Digital Nomad Visa follows a fast-track process and a positive administrative silence. This means that you should have your resolution within 20 days. If you don’t have it by then, you can assume the resolution is positive.

With a positive resolution for the three-year residence permit, you will have to go to a police station in Spain to have your fingerprints taken for the physical card. The card should be ready to pick up in about a month.

To be able to renew your digital nomad visa, you will need to become a tax resident in Spain, which means staying in the country for more than 183 days.

 

Benefits of Spain’s Remote Work Visa

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa offers several significant benefits. Firstly, it grants legal residency in Spain, allowing digital nomads to live and work without worrying about visa overstay issues.

The visa also expands travel opportunities, as residency in Spain allows digital nomads to travel freely within the Schengen zone and explore many European countries with ease.

Furthermore, this visa offers favorable tax conditions. For example, if you are a digital nomad working for a company based outside of Spain, you can apply for the Beckham Law tax regime. Instead of paying a progressive income tax rate of up to 45%, you will pay a flat rate of 24%.

In addition, major cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia have vibrant communities and coworking spaces, making them ideal for remote workers. Being part of Spain’s growing community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs offers numerous networking opportunities and the potential for professional growth. By the way, a good way to stay connected while working as a digital nomad in Spain is using eSIM.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa provides remote workers with professional flexibility and an enriching lifestyle. By meeting the criteria and applying, digital nomads can live in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries, enjoying sunny beaches, historic cities, and vibrant cultural scenes.