Five countries are now offering work visas that allow individuals to enter without a pre-existing job offer.
This change provides an opportunity for job seekers to explore employment options abroad while living in the country.
According to DAAD Scholarships, these visas enable skilled professionals to search for jobs upon arrival, streamlining the process of securing international employment.
Countries Offering Job-Seeking Visas
DAAD’s research reveals that several countries have implemented job-seeking visa programs aimed at attracting skilled workers. Here’s a closer look at what each country offers:
1. Germany: Job Seeker Visa
Germany has introduced a Job Seeker Visa for skilled individuals. This visa permits entry for up to six months, allowing holders to search for employment.
According to GermanyVisa.Org, ‘in recent years Germany has created several immigration pathways to attract foreign workers to the country to fill in labour shortages. The job seeker visa is one of these immigration opportunities that allows you to enter the country, look for employment, and settle down.
If you’re a Nigerian citizen looking to apply for this visa, you must first know whether the visa is proper for you and whether you meet the eligibility criteria.
In order to qualify, you need a degree recognized in Germany or a qualification related to a high-demand occupation like in Healthcare, Engineering, Sales, Dentistry, Law, Bus&Tram drivers, Architects & Civil engineers etc.
One must also provide proof of financial support.
After you find a job, you can convert this visa into a work permit, which can lead to long-term residency. Duration is up to six months.
Apply here
2. Portugal: Job Seeker Visa
According to Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the job seeker visa entitles its holder to enter and remain only in Portugal for the purpose of looking for a job; the visa authorizes him/her to carry out a subordinated work activity, until the visa expires or until the residence permit is granted.
This visa is granted for a period of 120 days, renewable for another 60 days and allows only one entry into Portugal.
Once the maximum validity limit of the visa for looking for work has expired, without an employment relationship having been established nor the process of requesting the granting of a residence permit having begun, the visa holder must leave the country.
In these situations, you can only re-apply for a new visa application for this purpose, one year after the expiry of the previous visa’s validity.
This visa is designed for skilled professionals and requires relevant qualifications and financial proof.
The growing sectors in Portugal, particularly in tech and tourism, provide ample opportunities for job seekers. A successful job offer can lead to a work visa or residency permit.
Apply here
3. Czech Republic: Long-Term Visa for Job Seeking
The Czech Republic’s Long-Term Visa for Job Seeking allows individuals to reside in the country while searching for employment.
The visa is available for those who can prove qualifications in high-demand fields and possess sufficient financial resources.
According to OECD Skills For Jobs, “in the Czech Republic, shortages are extensive across Skills and Knowledge areas. Shortages are observed in Judgement and Decision Making Skills, but also Engineering, Mechanics and Technology, Mathematics Knowledge and Computer and Electronics for Knowledge areas.”
This visa not only supports job searching but also facilitates movement within the European Union.
According to reports, Czech Republic has strong tech and manufacturing industries, which in turn makes it a good place for job seekers. It also serves as a gateway to other European Union countries. The duration is six to 12 months.
Apply here
4. Austria: Red-White-Red Card (Job Seeker Visa)
According to OEAD Austrian Agency for Education, the Red-White-Red Card entitles its holder to temporary settlement and employment with a specific employer. It is suitable for persons who are intending to settle in Austria permanently and is specifically for highly skilled workers from non-EU countries.
Applicants must meet a points-based system assessing education, work experience, and language skills.
Some of the skills in demand in Australia are: computer programmer, engineer, teacher, construction manager, Nurses, electricians, mechanical engineers, aged care workers, child carers and more.
This visa allows a six-month period to search for employment and can be converted into a long-term residency permit upon securing a job.
Apply here
5. Canada: International Experience Canada (IEC)
International Experience Canada (IEC) gives international youth the opportunity to travel and work in Canada for up to 2 years. Canada’s IEC program, while not strictly a job-seeking visa, allows young individuals to obtain an open work permit.
Skills in demand in Canada: Electrical engineer, Computer programmer, Project management, Registered nurse, Truck driver, Customer service representative, Pharmacist, Accountant, Human Resources and much more.
This visa is available for ages 18 to 35 from participating countries and offers flexibility to work in various roles while seeking long-term employment.
Apply here
What To Know:
Before exploring the countries that provide these options, one is to gather the necessary documents required.
To apply for these visas, you need to collect the following items:
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6–12 months, depending on the country.
- Proof of Education: Provide degree certificates or diplomas. Professional qualifications may be beneficial.
- Proof of Financial Means: Most countries require evidence of financial support during your job search, such as bank statements.
- Health Insurance: Some countries require health insurance for your stay.
- Proof of Qualifications/Work Experience: You may need to demonstrate skills in a relevant occupation.
- Travel Itinerary: A planned itinerary can support your application by showing commitment to finding work.
- Motivation or Cover Letter: Some visas may require a statement outlining your reasons for seeking employment and your plans.
- Employment Letter: Not required (optional).