{"id":2451,"date":"2024-05-01T04:23:17","date_gmt":"2024-05-01T04:23:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/?p=2451"},"modified":"2026-02-13T16:10:20","modified_gmt":"2026-02-13T16:10:20","slug":"guide-to-work-permits-in-europe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/visas-and-immigration\/guide-to-work-permits-in-europe\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to Work Permits Across Europe"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 18<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>\n<p>Moving to a new country can be a stressful plan to carry out. If you\u2019re planning to relocate to Europe, though, it can be much simpler than it seems. This article will show you how. Here\u2019s a practical guide on work permits in Europe and how to get a work visa for Europe as a non-EU citizen or an EU work permit for US citizens.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll learn what permits each European country requires so that you can start a new working life as an expat more easily. You\u2019ll also learn about the situation in <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/moving-to-germany\">Germany<\/a>, Austria, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, Ireland, <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/moving-to-portugal\">Portugal<\/a>, and Switzerland. Read on to learn how to get a work visa for Europe.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>European Union Blue Card<\/h2>\n<p>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 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kornferry.com\/insights\/this-week-in-leadership\/talent-crunch-future-of-work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">skill shortages<\/a> and contribute to the EU&#8217;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).<\/p>\n<p>You can read special guides (and instructions on how to apply) for the <b>EU Blue Card<\/b> for many countries, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/germany\/eu-blue-card\">Germany EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde9\ud83c\uddea<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/belgium\/blue-card\">Belgium EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde7\ud83c\uddea<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/france\/eu-blue-card\">France EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\uddeb\ud83c\uddf7<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/sweden\/blue-card\">Sweden EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\uddf8\ud83c\uddea<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/austria\/blue-card\">Austria EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddf9<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/finland\/eu-blue-card\">Finland EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\uddeb\ud83c\uddee<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/cyprus\/eu-blue-card\">Cyprus EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde8\ud83c\uddfe<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These are some EU Blue Card benefits:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Faster permanent residency:<\/b> An EU Blue Card allows you to apply for permanent residency after just 33 months of legal residence in the issuing country \u2014 which is significantly faster than the typical timeframe for permanent residency through regular work permits.<\/li>\n<li><b>Family reunification:<\/b> The Blue Card allows you to sponsor family members (spouse and children) to join you in the EU country.<\/li>\n<li><b>Employer involvement is always required:<\/b> Even if you submit the application yourself, it is impossible to apply for an EU Blue Card without a binding and valid job offer from an EU company. This is an advantage because it means you\u2019re doing the process with someone else and not just by your own.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To get an EU Blue Card, you basically need three things:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>High qualifications:<\/b> A university degree (or equivalent) and often at least 5 years of relevant work experience \u2014 Certain EU countries have a \u201cpositive list\u201d 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.<\/li>\n<li><b>A solid job offer:<\/b> A salaried position in the EU that lasts at least a year and pays a high salary (above 1.5 times the national average).<\/li>\n<li><b>The essentials, in order:<\/b> Valid travel documents, health insurance, and proof that you meet any licensing requirements for your profession (if applicable).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h4>Which countries are in the European Economic Area?<\/h4>\n<p>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\u2019t participate in the Blue Card program.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>Specific Work Permits per Country<\/h2>\n<p>The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly qualified professionals in the EU country that issues it. It&#8217;s a single, standardized permit that allows a non-EU national to live and work in the country under specific conditions. You do not need a separate national work permit in addition to the EU Blue Card. Card to do the specific highly-skilled job for which you were hired. (If you\u2019re, let\u2019s say, a doctor, you\u2019ll inevitably need an additional permit!)<\/p>\n<p>Having cleared this up, let&#8217;s have a look at each country\u2019s work permits in detail.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\udde9\ud83c\uddea Germany<\/h2>\n<p>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\u2019re a tech professional, Germany is an excellent option for you to relocate as they offer a special visa for IT professionals. Let\u2019s discuss each of them in detail:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/work-qualified-professionals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Work visa for qualified professionals<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> 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\u2019re over 45 years old and going to work in the country for the first time, your job must pay at least \u20ac49,830 annually or provide adequate pension provision. For your reference, Germany&#8217;s average IT salary in 2024 was slightly above <a href=\"https:\/\/www.glassdoor.com\/Salaries\/germany-it-specialist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,7_IN96_KO8,21.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\u20ac55,000<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/it-professionals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Visa for IT professionals<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> 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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/self-employment\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Visa for self-employment<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> 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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/jobseekers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Visa for jobseekers<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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&#8217;ll need to prove you can cover living expenses, as you can&#8217;t work during this time. This can be done through a Sperrkonto, which is a \u201c <a href=\"https:\/\/www.auswaertiges-amt.de\/en\/sperrkonto\/388600\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">blocked bank account<\/a>,\u201d or a Declaration of Commitment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddf9 Austria<\/h2>\n<p>To work as a non-EU citizen in Austria, there are three options:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Work Permit + Residence Permit:<\/b> 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 \u2014 who usually has to initiate the application. Its validity can range from months to years.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.migration.gv.at\/en\/types-of-immigration\/permanent-immigration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Red-White-Red Card (RWRC)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> This program is aimed at skilled professionals in fields that align with Austria&#8217;s economic needs. It&#8217;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\u2019s valid for up to two years and can be renewed, with a chance for permanent residency later on.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.workinaustria.com\/en\/blog\/the-job-seeker-visa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Jobseeker Visa<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> This temporary visa allows you to enter Austria and search for a job for a limited period, max 6 months. It doesn&#8217;t guarantee employment and might restrict your ability to work while searching. However, it can be a starting point if you don&#8217;t have a job offer yet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Keep in mind that currently, it&#8217;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\u2019t experience boom-and-bust cycles. So, if you&#8217;re a non-EU citizen seeking employment there, keep a backup plan in sight.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddf3\ud83c\uddf1 The Netherlands<\/h2>\n<p>As a non-EU citizen in the Netherlands, you can get what they call a \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/ind.nl\/en\/forms\/3072.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Residence permit for work as a highly skilled migrant<\/a>.\u201d Here&#8217;s a quick overview of what it consists of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Eligibility:<\/b> You need a university degree, a job offer with a salary higher than \u20ac35,736, and sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and those of any dependents. Additionally, your <a href=\"https:\/\/ind.nl\/en\/public-register-recognised-sponsors\/public-register-regular-labour-and-highly-skilled-migrants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">employer must be recognised by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)<\/a>. Certain healthcare professions also require registration with the BIG Register.<\/li>\n<li><b>Benefits:<\/b> 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.<\/li>\n<li><b>Details:<\/b> 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\u2019t add the \u201cThe\u201d before the words Netherlands or Hague, you\u2019ll be guilty of a spelling mistake. Those are important details to look out for.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re an American citizen who wants to work and live in the Netherlands, you should check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/netherlands\/daft-visa\">special DAFT visa<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/job-relocation\/moving-to-the-netherlands-for-a-tech-job\/\"> <b>Moving to the Netherlands for a Tech Job: The Ultimate Guide \u2192<\/b> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddea\ud83c\uddf8 Spain<\/h2>\n<p>There are three types of visas in case you want to relocate to Spain. Let\u2019s see what sets them apart:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exteriores.gob.es\/Consulados\/londres\/en\/ServiciosConsulares\/Paginas\/Consular\/Visado-para-trabajador-altamente-cualificado-y-para-traslado-intraempresarial.aspx#:~:text=Visa%20for%20highly%20qualified%20workers%3A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Highly Qualified Migrant (HQM) Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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&#8217;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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exteriores.gob.es\/Consulados\/londres\/en\/ServiciosConsulares\/Paginas\/Consular\/Visado-para-trabajador-altamente-cualificado-y-para-traslado-intraempresarial.aspx#:~:text=Visa%20for%20intra%2Dcompany%20transfers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Intra-corporate Transfer (ICT) Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.immigrationspain.es\/en\/digital-nomad-visa-remote-work\/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA6KWvBhAREiwAFPZM7rVV5mEF9O5H4rqFCeJRqX4xOPx2b6vX2qKHwXSnUyUbvlS_xZFG7RoCJ8oQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Digital Nomad Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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\u2019s 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&#8217;ll need to show you can work remotely, have enough funds, and potentially meet minimum income and experience thresholds in your field.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddec\ud83c\udde7 United Kingdom<\/h2>\n<p>The Blue Card program doesn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/skilled-worker-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">The Skilled Worker Visa<\/a> is your ticket to work in the UK for the long term. Let\u2019s see its implications and requirements:<br \/><br \/><b>You\u2019re eligible if:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>You have a job offer from a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/register-of-licensed-sponsors-workers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">licensed UK company<\/a> (sponsored by them).<\/li>\n<li>Your job is needed in the UK (check the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/skilled-worker-visa-shortage-occupations\/skilled-worker-visa-shortage-occupations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Shortage Occupation List<\/a>), or you earn well (\u00a325,600+).<\/li>\n<li>You can speak English well enough (basic test).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Its benefits:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Live and work in the UK for up to 5 years (you can extend this one).<\/li>\n<li>Bring your family with you (spouse and kids).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Take into account that the application process takes time, so apply well in advance.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/expat-stories\/moving-to-the-uk-for-a-tech-job\/\"> <b>Moving to London for a Tech Job: Mahdi&#8217;s Relocation Story \u2192<\/b> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddea Ireland<\/h2>\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/moving-to-ireland\">Ireland<\/a>, 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 <a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/employment-permit-eligibility\/highly-skilled-eligible-occupations-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Critical Skills Occupations List<\/a> (CSOL) qualifies for this permit.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s cover them both in more detail:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/permit-types\/general-employment-permit\/#:~:text=A%20General%20Employment%20Permit%20can,ISD)%20for%20long%20term%20residency.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>General Employment Permit (GEP)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> The GEP opens doors to work in Ireland for professionals in occupations facing labour shortages. However, your job offer must be in an <a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/employment-permit-eligibility\/ineligible-categories-of-employment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">eligible field<\/a> and meet a minimum salary threshold. Processing takes around 4\u20138 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\u2019t sleep on the GEP.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/permit-types\/critical-skills-employment-permit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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&#8217;ll need to meet a higher minimum salary specific to your occupation, and the initial permit lasts 2 years and is renewable indefinitely.<\/li>\n<li>You can also request an <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/ireland\/employment-visa\"> <b>Ireland Employment Visa<\/b><\/a>\u00a0if you\u2019ve secured a job offer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddf5\ud83c\uddf9 Portugal<\/h2>\n<p>Northern Europeans will confirm that <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/cost-of-living\/portugal\">Portugal<\/a> is a great country to relocate to, as the Portuguese are incredibly friendly and welcoming towards immigrants, and it\u2019s a very affordable country. It&#8217;s easy to move around there even if you don&#8217;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 <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/taxes\/guide\/portugal\">low taxes<\/a>. Not to mention the food, which, if you like fish, will fascinate you.<\/p>\n<p>If you want to work and live in Portugal, you can consider the following visas:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/portugal\/job-seeker-visa\"> <b>Job Seeker Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> Specifically for non-EU nationals to enter Portugal to look for employment. You need to score a job in the timeframe that the government allows you to stay. Otherwise, you\u2019ll have to hop on a plane back home!<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/portugal\/d2-visa\"> <b>Entrepreneur Visa (D2)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> For entrepreneurs who plan to start or invest in a business in Portugal.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/portugal\/d8-visa\"> <b>Digital Nomad Visa (DR\/D8)<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> For remote workers who can support themselves through a professional activity or active income from outside Portugal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>You may read that these visas are only good for 120 days, or four months. This may seem strange, but it&#8217;s how these visas work. Their system is set up in steps. At first, you&#8217;re only allowed to stay in the country for 120 days. You then have to apply for a longer permit.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to work-related visas, Portugal offers the <a href=\"_wp_link_placeholder\" data-wplink-edit=\"true\">Golden Visa (D9) program<\/a>, an investment-based pathway to residency. This option is especially popular among American citizens.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\udde8\ud83c\udded Switzerland<\/h2>\n<p>While Switzerland might seem closed off to immigrants, there&#8217;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.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s what you need to know:<\/p>\n<p><b>Getting the Job:<\/b> The process is employer-driven. To get your permit, your future employer must prove that hiring you benefits Switzerland economically and that they can&#8217;t find suitable personnel locally or from EU\/EFTA member states.<\/p>\n<p><b>The Permit Process:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ch.ch\/en\/foreign-nationals-in-switzerland\/working-in-switzerland\/#non-euefta-nationals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Work permits<\/a> are mandatory for all non-EU\/EFTA citizens, even for short-term work. The government limits the number of permits issued each year.<\/li>\n<li>If you&#8217;re self-employed, you&#8217;ll need to take charge of the application yourself.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Depending on your nationality, you might also need a visa alongside the work permit. For more information, check the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sem.admin.ch\/sem\/en\/home.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">State Secretariat for Migration\u2019s website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>Get European work permits with the help of an employer<\/h2>\n<p>The best way to get your permits is through an employer, and the best way to find that employer might be through <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/\">Relocate.me<\/a>, 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.<\/p>\n<p>What are you waiting for? If you\u2019re a worker looking to relocate and be hired internationally, take a look at our <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/international-jobs\">job board<\/a>. You can also subscribe to <a href=\"https:\/\/relocateme.substack.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i>The Global Move<\/i><\/a>, our newsletter for expats who want to relocate.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>FAQs<\/h2>\n<details>\n<summary><strong>What is the EU Blue Card?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p>The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly skilled non-EU professionals. It accelerates the process of getting permanent residency and reuniting families. Many European countries have their own version of the EU Blue Card.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/details><details>\n<summary><strong>How can a company help me get a European work permit?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p>An employer that offers a relocation-friendly job will help you get your permit if you effectively get the job with them. So the best approach is to seek out companies that hire expats and try to relocate with their help.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/details><details>\n<summary><strong>What is the best website to find a job with relocation support in Europe?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p>Relocate.me connects tech job seekers with international companies that offer relocation-friendly jobs. <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/\">Relocate.me<\/a> can also <a href=\"https:\/\/airtable.com\/appglD2M9RAFgqkyk\/shrQb41wpIh5PRwLw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">connect you with immigration experts<\/a> who can help you take your next steps in your relocation process.<\/p>\n<\/details><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving to a new country can be a stressful plan to carry out. If you\u2019re planning to relocate to Europe, though, it can be much simpler than it seems. This article will show you how. Here\u2019s a practical guide on work permits in Europe and how to get a work visa for Europe as a non-EU citizen or an EU work permit for US citizens.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll learn what permits each European country requires so that you can start a new working life as an expat more easily. You\u2019ll also learn about the situation in <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/moving-to-germany\">Germany<\/a>, Austria, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, Ireland, <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/moving-to-portugal\">Portugal<\/a>, and Switzerland. Read on to learn how to get a work visa for Europe.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>European Union Blue Card<\/h2>\n<p>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 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kornferry.com\/insights\/this-week-in-leadership\/talent-crunch-future-of-work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">skill shortages<\/a> and contribute to the EU&#8217;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).<\/p>\n<p>You can read special guides (and instructions on how to apply) for the <b>EU Blue Card<\/b> for many countries, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/germany\/eu-blue-card\">Germany EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde9\ud83c\uddea<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/belgium\/blue-card\">Belgium EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde7\ud83c\uddea<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/france\/eu-blue-card\">France EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\uddeb\ud83c\uddf7<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/sweden\/blue-card\">Sweden EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\uddf8\ud83c\uddea<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/austria\/blue-card\">Austria EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddf9<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/finland\/eu-blue-card\">Finland EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\uddeb\ud83c\uddee<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/cyprus\/eu-blue-card\">Cyprus EU Blue Card<\/a> \ud83c\udde8\ud83c\uddfe<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These are some EU Blue Card benefits:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Faster permanent residency:<\/b> An EU Blue Card allows you to apply for permanent residency after just 33 months of legal residence in the issuing country \u2014 which is significantly faster than the typical timeframe for permanent residency through regular work permits.<\/li>\n<li><b>Family reunification:<\/b> The Blue Card allows you to sponsor family members (spouse and children) to join you in the EU country.<\/li>\n<li><b>Employer involvement is always required:<\/b> Even if you submit the application yourself, it is impossible to apply for an EU Blue Card without a binding and valid job offer from an EU company. This is an advantage because it means you\u2019re doing the process with someone else and not just by your own.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To get an EU Blue Card, you basically need three things:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>High qualifications:<\/b> A university degree (or equivalent) and often at least 5 years of relevant work experience \u2014 Certain EU countries have a \u201cpositive list\u201d 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.<\/li>\n<li><b>A solid job offer:<\/b> A salaried position in the EU that lasts at least a year and pays a high salary (above 1.5 times the national average).<\/li>\n<li><b>The essentials, in order:<\/b> Valid travel documents, health insurance, and proof that you meet any licensing requirements for your profession (if applicable).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h4>Which countries are in the European Economic Area?<\/h4>\n<p>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\u2019t participate in the Blue Card program.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>Specific Work Permits per Country<\/h2>\n<p>The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly qualified professionals in the EU country that issues it. It&#8217;s a single, standardized permit that allows a non-EU national to live and work in the country under specific conditions. You do not need a separate national work permit in addition to the EU Blue Card. Card to do the specific highly-skilled job for which you were hired. (If you\u2019re, let\u2019s say, a doctor, you\u2019ll inevitably need an additional permit!)<\/p>\n<p>Having cleared this up, let&#8217;s have a look at each country\u2019s work permits in detail.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\udde9\ud83c\uddea Germany<\/h2>\n<p>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\u2019re a tech professional, Germany is an excellent option for you to relocate as they offer a special visa for IT professionals. Let\u2019s discuss each of them in detail:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/work-qualified-professionals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Work visa for qualified professionals<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> 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\u2019re over 45 years old and going to work in the country for the first time, your job must pay at least \u20ac49,830 annually or provide adequate pension provision. For your reference, Germany&#8217;s average IT salary in 2024 was slightly above <a href=\"https:\/\/www.glassdoor.com\/Salaries\/germany-it-specialist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,7_IN96_KO8,21.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\u20ac55,000<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/it-professionals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Visa for IT professionals<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> 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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/self-employment\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Visa for self-employment<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> 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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.make-it-in-germany.com\/en\/visa-residence\/types\/jobseekers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Visa for jobseekers<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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&#8217;ll need to prove you can cover living expenses, as you can&#8217;t work during this time. This can be done through a Sperrkonto, which is a \u201c <a href=\"https:\/\/www.auswaertiges-amt.de\/en\/sperrkonto\/388600\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">blocked bank account<\/a>,\u201d or a Declaration of Commitment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddf9 Austria<\/h2>\n<p>To work as a non-EU citizen in Austria, there are three options:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Work Permit + Residence Permit:<\/b> 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 \u2014 who usually has to initiate the application. Its validity can range from months to years.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.migration.gv.at\/en\/types-of-immigration\/permanent-immigration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Red-White-Red Card (RWRC)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> This program is aimed at skilled professionals in fields that align with Austria&#8217;s economic needs. It&#8217;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\u2019s valid for up to two years and can be renewed, with a chance for permanent residency later on.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.workinaustria.com\/en\/blog\/the-job-seeker-visa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Jobseeker Visa<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> This temporary visa allows you to enter Austria and search for a job for a limited period, max 6 months. It doesn&#8217;t guarantee employment and might restrict your ability to work while searching. However, it can be a starting point if you don&#8217;t have a job offer yet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Keep in mind that currently, it&#8217;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\u2019t experience boom-and-bust cycles. So, if you&#8217;re a non-EU citizen seeking employment there, keep a backup plan in sight.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddf3\ud83c\uddf1 The Netherlands<\/h2>\n<p>As a non-EU citizen in the Netherlands, you can get what they call a \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/ind.nl\/en\/forms\/3072.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Residence permit for work as a highly skilled migrant<\/a>.\u201d Here&#8217;s a quick overview of what it consists of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Eligibility:<\/b> You need a university degree, a job offer with a salary higher than \u20ac35,736, and sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and those of any dependents. Additionally, your <a href=\"https:\/\/ind.nl\/en\/public-register-recognised-sponsors\/public-register-regular-labour-and-highly-skilled-migrants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">employer must be recognised by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)<\/a>. Certain healthcare professions also require registration with the BIG Register.<\/li>\n<li><b>Benefits:<\/b> 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.<\/li>\n<li><b>Details:<\/b> 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\u2019t add the \u201cThe\u201d before the words Netherlands or Hague, you\u2019ll be guilty of a spelling mistake. Those are important details to look out for.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re an American citizen who wants to work and live in the Netherlands, you should check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/netherlands\/daft-visa\">special DAFT visa<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/job-relocation\/moving-to-the-netherlands-for-a-tech-job\/\"> <b>Moving to the Netherlands for a Tech Job: The Ultimate Guide \u2192<\/b> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddea\ud83c\uddf8 Spain<\/h2>\n<p>There are three types of visas in case you want to relocate to Spain. Let\u2019s see what sets them apart:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exteriores.gob.es\/Consulados\/londres\/en\/ServiciosConsulares\/Paginas\/Consular\/Visado-para-trabajador-altamente-cualificado-y-para-traslado-intraempresarial.aspx#:~:text=Visa%20for%20highly%20qualified%20workers%3A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Highly Qualified Migrant (HQM) Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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&#8217;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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exteriores.gob.es\/Consulados\/londres\/en\/ServiciosConsulares\/Paginas\/Consular\/Visado-para-trabajador-altamente-cualificado-y-para-traslado-intraempresarial.aspx#:~:text=Visa%20for%20intra%2Dcompany%20transfers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Intra-corporate Transfer (ICT) Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.immigrationspain.es\/en\/digital-nomad-visa-remote-work\/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA6KWvBhAREiwAFPZM7rVV5mEF9O5H4rqFCeJRqX4xOPx2b6vX2qKHwXSnUyUbvlS_xZFG7RoCJ8oQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Digital Nomad Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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\u2019s 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&#8217;ll need to show you can work remotely, have enough funds, and potentially meet minimum income and experience thresholds in your field.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddec\ud83c\udde7 United Kingdom<\/h2>\n<p>The Blue Card program doesn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/skilled-worker-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">The Skilled Worker Visa<\/a> is your ticket to work in the UK for the long term. Let\u2019s see its implications and requirements:<br \/><br \/><b>You\u2019re eligible if:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>You have a job offer from a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/register-of-licensed-sponsors-workers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">licensed UK company<\/a> (sponsored by them).<\/li>\n<li>Your job is needed in the UK (check the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/skilled-worker-visa-shortage-occupations\/skilled-worker-visa-shortage-occupations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Shortage Occupation List<\/a>), or you earn well (\u00a325,600+).<\/li>\n<li>You can speak English well enough (basic test).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Its benefits:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Live and work in the UK for up to 5 years (you can extend this one).<\/li>\n<li>Bring your family with you (spouse and kids).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Take into account that the application process takes time, so apply well in advance.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/expat-stories\/moving-to-the-uk-for-a-tech-job\/\"> <b>Moving to London for a Tech Job: Mahdi&#8217;s Relocation Story \u2192<\/b> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddea Ireland<\/h2>\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/moving-to-ireland\">Ireland<\/a>, 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 <a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/employment-permit-eligibility\/highly-skilled-eligible-occupations-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Critical Skills Occupations List<\/a> (CSOL) qualifies for this permit.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s cover them both in more detail:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/permit-types\/general-employment-permit\/#:~:text=A%20General%20Employment%20Permit%20can,ISD)%20for%20long%20term%20residency.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>General Employment Permit (GEP)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> The GEP opens doors to work in Ireland for professionals in occupations facing labour shortages. However, your job offer must be in an <a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/employment-permit-eligibility\/ineligible-categories-of-employment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">eligible field<\/a> and meet a minimum salary threshold. Processing takes around 4\u20138 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\u2019t sleep on the GEP.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/enterprise.gov.ie\/en\/what-we-do\/workplace-and-skills\/employment-permits\/permit-types\/critical-skills-employment-permit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"> <b>Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> 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&#8217;ll need to meet a higher minimum salary specific to your occupation, and the initial permit lasts 2 years and is renewable indefinitely.<\/li>\n<li>You can also request an <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/ireland\/employment-visa\"> <b>Ireland Employment Visa<\/b><\/a>\u00a0if you\u2019ve secured a job offer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\uddf5\ud83c\uddf9 Portugal<\/h2>\n<p>Northern Europeans will confirm that <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/cost-of-living\/portugal\">Portugal<\/a> is a great country to relocate to, as the Portuguese are incredibly friendly and welcoming towards immigrants, and it\u2019s a very affordable country. It&#8217;s easy to move around there even if you don&#8217;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 <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/taxes\/guide\/portugal\">low taxes<\/a>. Not to mention the food, which, if you like fish, will fascinate you.<\/p>\n<p>If you want to work and live in Portugal, you can consider the following visas:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/portugal\/job-seeker-visa\"> <b>Job Seeker Visa<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> Specifically for non-EU nationals to enter Portugal to look for employment. You need to score a job in the timeframe that the government allows you to stay. Otherwise, you\u2019ll have to hop on a plane back home!<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/portugal\/d2-visa\"> <b>Entrepreneur Visa (D2)<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b> For entrepreneurs who plan to start or invest in a business in Portugal.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/visas\/portugal\/d8-visa\"> <b>Digital Nomad Visa (DR\/D8)<\/b><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> For remote workers who can support themselves through a professional activity or active income from outside Portugal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>You may read that these visas are only good for 120 days, or four months. This may seem strange, but it&#8217;s how these visas work. Their system is set up in steps. At first, you&#8217;re only allowed to stay in the country for 120 days. You then have to apply for a longer permit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>\ud83c\udde8\ud83c\udded Switzerland<\/h2>\n<p>While Switzerland might seem closed off to immigrants, there&#8217;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.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s what you need to know:<\/p>\n<p><b>Getting the Job:<\/b> The process is employer-driven. To get your permit, your future employer must prove that hiring you benefits Switzerland economically and that they can&#8217;t find suitable personnel locally or from EU\/EFTA member states.<\/p>\n<p><b>The Permit Process:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ch.ch\/en\/foreign-nationals-in-switzerland\/working-in-switzerland\/#non-euefta-nationals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Work permits<\/a> are mandatory for all non-EU\/EFTA citizens, even for short-term work. The government limits the number of permits issued each year.<\/li>\n<li>If you&#8217;re self-employed, you&#8217;ll need to take charge of the application yourself.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Depending on your nationality, you might also need a visa alongside the work permit. For more information, check the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sem.admin.ch\/sem\/en\/home.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">State Secretariat for Migration\u2019s website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>Get European work permits with the help of an employer<\/h2>\n<p>The best way to get your permits is through an employer, and the best way to find that employer might be through <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/\">Relocate.me<\/a>, 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.<\/p>\n<p>What are you waiting for? If you\u2019re a worker looking to relocate and be hired internationally, take a look at our <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/international-jobs\">job board<\/a>. You can also subscribe to <a href=\"https:\/\/relocateme.substack.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i>The Global Move<\/i><\/a>, our newsletter for expats who want to relocate.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"content__item\">\n<h2>FAQs<\/h2>\n<details>\n<summary><strong>What is the EU Blue Card?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p>The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly skilled non-EU professionals. It accelerates the process of getting permanent residency and reuniting families. Many European countries have their own version of the EU Blue Card.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/details><details>\n<summary><strong>How can a company help me get a European work permit?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p>An employer that offers a relocation-friendly job will help you get your permit if you effectively get the job with them. So the best approach is to seek out companies that hire expats and try to relocate with their help.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/details><details>\n<summary><strong>What is the best website to find a job with relocation support in Europe?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p>Relocate.me connects tech job seekers with international companies that offer relocation-friendly jobs. <a href=\"https:\/\/relocate.me\/\">Relocate.me<\/a> can also <a href=\"https:\/\/airtable.com\/appglD2M9RAFgqkyk\/shrQb41wpIh5PRwLw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">connect you with immigration experts<\/a> who can help you take your next steps in your relocation process.<\/p>\n<\/details><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 18<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Moving to a new country can be a stressful plan to carry out. If you\u2019re planning to relocate to Europe, though, it can be much simpler than it seems. This article will show you how. Here\u2019s a practical guide on work permits in Europe and how to get a work visa for Europe as a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":2461,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[79],"tags":[86],"class_list":["post-2451","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-visas-and-immigration","tag-visas"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2451","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2451"}],"version-history":[{"count":36,"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2451\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3802,"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2451\/revisions\/3802"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2461"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2451"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2451"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/relocate.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2451"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}