Blog Post

In this post, we will go over countries with job seeker visas! If you’re considering working abroad, job seeker visas are a great option to explore. These visas allow eligible candidates to visit countries that offer them for a specified period of time and apply for available jobs that they are qualified for. Unlike regular work visas, job seeker visas do not require an existing job offer before a visa is granted.

Many candidates prefer job seeker visas because they provide the opportunity to experience the country they plan on moving to, network in person in the industries they intend to work in and have face-to-face interviews with prospective employers. This can be especially valuable compared to the typical virtual interviews used during the skilled worker job application process.

Throughout this post, we’ll discuss the countries that offer job seeker visas including Germany, Sweden, Portugal, Austria, Spain, Denmark, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the USA and provide summaries on how to apply for them. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced professional, job seeker visas can be a great way to explore new job opportunities and potentially launch a career abroad. So, let’s dive in!

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The eight routes ranked

Before the detail, the comparison. Two things separate these routes and neither is the country: how long you get, and whether you may work while you search. The second one decides whether the money you bring is a deposit or a burn rate.

Route	How long	Work while searching?	Open to whom
Germany, Opportunity Card	Up to a year	Yes, 20 hours a week	Anyone who scores on the points test
Germany, job seeker visa	Six months	No	Anyone qualified
Sweden	Reported as three to nine months	No	Highly qualified applicants
Austria	Six months, non-extendable	No, not at all	70 points on the Red-White-Red criteria
Portugal	120 days, extendable by 60	No	Non-EU citizens. Check it is currently open
United Arab Emirates	60, 90 or 120 days	No	Skill levels one to three, no sponsor needed
Denmark	Varies by scheme	No	Largely tied to the Positive Lists or to having studied there
Spain	Varies	No	Former students only. You need a student visa and a Spanish higher-level diploma

Two things worth taking from that table before you read on. Germany’s Opportunity Card is not close to the others: twice the length and the only one that lets you earn while you look. And Spain is a graduate route wearing a job seeker label, so if you did not study there it is not available to you, however often it appears on lists like this one.

The German Job Seeker Visa

Germany is one of the most popular destinations for job seekers due to its thriving economy and high demand for skilled workers. The German job seeker visa programme allows eligible candidates to stay in the country for up to six months while they search for employment opportunities.

Before you apply for this one, look at the Opportunity Card. Germany introduced the Chancenkarte after this guide was first written, and for most people it is the better route by a wide margin:

• It runs for up to a year, against six months for the job seeker visa.
• It permits 20 hours of work a week while you search, which no other route on this page allows.
• It is points-based, scoring qualifications, experience, language and age, rather than requiring a completed degree recognition up front.

The funds requirement is EUR 1,091 a month, around EUR 13,092 for a full year, and there are three ways to satisfy it: a blocked account, a formal declaration of commitment from someone resident in Germany, or a part-time employment contract within that 20-hour limit. Most guides mention only the first. See our Opportunity Card guide and how it compares with the EU Blue Card.

The six-month job seeker visa described below still exists and is still worth knowing about, particularly if you do not score well on the points test.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the German job seeker visa, applicants must have a recognised university degree or equivalent qualification, as well as sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. Additionally, applicants must possess health insurance coverage and a clean criminal record.

Application process

The application process for the German job seeker visa involves submitting various documents, including a completed visa application form, a cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit, a valid passport, proof of health insurance coverage, and proof of sufficient funds to support oneself during the stay. Applicants will also need to provide proof of their qualifications and a detailed resume or CV.

Benefits

The German job seeker visa programme offers several benefits to applicants. Firstly, it allows them to explore the job market and network with potential employers in the country. Additionally, successful applicants may be able to transition to a work visa after finding employment. The programme also provides an opportunity for candidates to experience the German culture and lifestyle before committing to a long-term stay.

Tips for applying

To increase their chances of success, candidates should ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria and provide all required documents. It is also important to tailor the application documents to the specific job market in Germany and to demonstrate a clear understanding of the German language and culture. Finally, applicants should apply as early as possible, as the process can take several weeks to complete.

The Swedish Job Seeker visa

Sweden is another country that offers a job seeker visa programme to attract skilled workers to its labour market. The Sweden Job Seeker Visa programme allows individuals to enter the country for a period of six months to search for employment opportunities. If successful in finding a job during this time, they can then apply for a work permit and continue to work and live in Sweden.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Sweden Job Seeker Visa programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must hold a valid passport
• Must have completed at least a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution
• Must have a minimum of three years of work experience in their field of study
• Must have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Sweden
• Must have valid travel insurance for the duration of their stay
• Must be able to provide proof of their intention to leave Sweden at the end of the six-month period if they do not find employment

Application process

The application process for the Sweden Job Seeker Visa programme is as follows:

• Submit an online application through the Swedish Migration Agency website
• Pay the application fee
• Provide supporting documents, including passport, educational qualifications, work experience, travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds
• Schedule an interview at the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate
• Attend the interview and provide additional information if requested
• Wait for the decision on the visa application

Benefits

The Sweden Job Seeker Visa programme offers several benefits to applicants, including:

• The opportunity to search for employment opportunities in Sweden for six months
• The ability to apply for a work permit if a job offer is secured during the six-month period
• Access to Sweden’s highly skilled labour market

Tips for applying

To increase the chances of a successful visa application, applicants should consider the following tips:

• Ensure that all supporting documents are in order and up to date
• Research potential employment opportunities in Sweden before arriving
• Attend job fairs and networking events in Sweden
• Brush up on Swedish language skills to increase job prospects in the local market

The Job seeker visa for Portugal

The Portugal Job Seeker Visa programme is designed for non-European citizens who wish to enter and stay in Portugal for a limited period of time to search for employment opportunities. This type of visa is valid for up to 120 days and can be extended for an additional 60 days if necessary. The visa is intended to allow job seekers to explore the job market in Portugal and potentially secure a job offer that will enable them to stay in the country longer.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

1. You must be a non-European citizen and not a resident of Portugal.

2. You must have a valid passport or travel document that is valid for at least three months after the estimated date of return.

3. You must have proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Portugal.

4. You must have a declaration of expression of interest for enrolment in the IEFP (Institute for Employment and Professional Training).

5. You must not have a criminal record that would prevent you from obtaining a visa.

6. You must be able to provide proof of accommodation in Portugal for the duration of your stay.

7. You must have a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.

8. You must have valid travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay in Portugal.

Application process

To apply for the Portugal job seeker visa, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Complete the national visa application form and sign it.
2. Gather all the required documents, including your passport, proof of financial resources, criminal record certificate, travel insurance policy, and declaration of expression of interest for enrolment in the IEFP.
3. Submit your application and pay the visa fee at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country.
4. Wait for the processing time, which can take several weeks.

Benefits

The Portugal job seeker visa offers several benefits for non-European citizens looking to move to Portugal and search for employment. Some of the benefits include:

1. A chance to explore the country and job market before committing to a long-term stay.
2. The opportunity to learn more about the Portuguese culture and language.
3. Access to the IEFP services and job search resources.
4. The ability to renew the visa for an additional 60 days.

Tips for applying

To increase your chances of a successful application for the Portugal job seeker visa, consider these tips:

1. Plan your trip well in advance to allow for ample time for the visa processing.
2. Make sure you have all the required documents and that they are up-to-date.
3. Have a clear plan for your job search in Portugal, including researching the job market and identifying potential employers.
4. Consider working with a Portuguese immigration lawyer to guide you through the visa application process.

The Job Seeker Visa for Austria

The Austria Job Seeker Visa programme is designed for non-European Union citizens who wish to visit Austria to search for employment opportunities. This visa is valid for six months and allows holders to enter Austria for the sole purpose of looking for work. The programme is administered by the Austrian embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Austria Job Seeker Visa programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Non-EU citizen: Applicants must be a citizen of a country that is not a member of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland.

2. Qualifications: Applicants must have completed a post-secondary education programme of at least three years in duration. Alternatively, they must have at least five years of relevant work experience in their field.

3. Sufficient funds: Applicants must provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Austria. This can be in the form of bank statements, a letter from a sponsor, or other acceptable documentation.

4. Health insurance: Applicants must have valid health insurance coverage for their stay in Austria.

5. Clean criminal record: Applicants must provide a certificate of good conduct from their home country or any country where they have lived for more than six months.

6. Meeting the points requirements: The Austria Job Seeker visa is available for highly qualified workers who meet the eligibility criteria, which involves scoring a minimum of 70 points according to specific criteria. The criteria are divided into five categories, including special qualifications and skills, work experience, language skills, age, and studies in Austria. The maximum number of points that can be earned for each category is 40, 40, 10, 20, and 10, respectively. For instance, a post-doctoral qualification or PhD earns the applicant 40 points, while German or English language skills at the A1 level are worth five points. Applicants must meet the minimum score required to be considered for the visa.
    

Application process

To apply for the Austria Job Seeker Visa programme, applicants must follow these steps:

1. Gather required documents: Applicants must provide a completed visa application form, a passport with at least six months of validity, passport-sized photos, proof of qualifications, proof of financial resources, and proof of health insurance.

2. Submit application: Applicants must submit their application and pay the visa fee to the Austrian embassy or consulate in their home country.

3. Wait for processing: Processing times can vary, but typically take four to six weeks.

4. Travel to Austria: Once the visa is approved, applicants can travel to Austria to search for employment opportunities.

Benefits

The Austria Job Seeker Visa programme offers several benefits, including:

1. Opportunity to search for employment: The programme allows applicants to enter Austria for the sole purpose of seeking employment opportunities.

2. Six-month validity: The visa is valid for six months, which provides ample time for job searching.

3. Pathway to permanent residency: Successful applicants can apply for permanent residency in Austria if they find employment and meet the requirements.

Tips for applying

To increase the chances of a successful application, applicants should:

1. Submit a complete and accurate application with all required documents.

2. Provide evidence of relevant qualifications and work experience.

3. Ensure they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Austria.

4. Obtain valid health insurance coverage.

5. Meet the minimum of 70 points required.

6. Obtain a certificate of good conduct from all countries where they have lived for more than six months.

The Employment Seeking residence permit for Spain

Spain offers a Job Seeking visa, also known as an Employment Seeking residence permit, to allow non-EU students to search for a job or establish a startup after completing their high-level studies in Spain.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Spain Job Seeker Visa programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a Student Visa
• Have an official high-level study diploma (undergraduate, official master, PhD) from a Spanish institution
• Possess medical insurance that covers the duration of their stay
• Have sufficient economic means for the entire period

Application process

Applicants should follow these steps to apply for the Spain Job Seeker Visa programme:

1. Fill out the official EX01 form and pay the 790/052 tax (Option 2.1).
2. Gather all the required documents, including passport, high-level study diploma, medical insurance, proof of economic means, and a declaration of economic sufficiency.
3. Submit the application online through the rec/redsara.es platform with a digital signature.
4. After submitting the application, wait for the response from the immigration office within 20 natural days.
5. If the response is not received, the permit is automatically granted, and the applicant can proceed with the fingerprinting process for the TIE.

Benefits

The Spain Job Seeker Visa programme allows non-EU students to stay in Spain for up to 24 months to search for a job or establish a startup related to their field of study. Although it is a non-lucrative residence permit, it provides the opportunity to explore job prospects in Spain and gain valuable work experience.

Tips for applying

• Plan ahead and gather all necessary documents before applying
• Apply within the allowed time frame of 60 days before and 90 days after the expiration of the student visa
• Ensure that the medical insurance coverage meets the requirements
• Provide sufficient proof of economic means for the entire period
• Seek assistance from the ISS office to inspect and aid with the application process.

The Denmark Job Seeking permit for Employees

Denmark has a job seeking permit programme that allows foreign nationals to reside in Denmark for up to six months while they search for employment opportunities. This programme is designed to encourage skilled workers to come to Denmark and contribute to the country’s economy.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Denmark job seeking permit programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country.
• Have completed a degree from a recognised educational institution or have relevant work experience in a skilled field.
• Have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Denmark.
• Have a valid travel document (passport).
• Not have previously been issued a residence permit in Denmark for job seeking purposes.

Application process

The application process for the Denmark job seeking permit programme involves the following steps:

1. Apply for a visa: Applicants must apply for a visa to enter Denmark as a job seeker. This can be done online or at a Danish embassy or consulate in their home country.

2. Submit application: Applicants must submit their application, along with supporting documents, to the Danish Immigration Service.

3. Wait for decision: The Danish Immigration Service will review the application and make a decision within two months.

4. Receive permit: If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a job seeking permit that allows them to reside in Denmark for up to six months.

Benefits

The Denmark job seeking permit programme offers several benefits, including:

• The ability to reside in Denmark while searching for employment opportunities.
• The opportunity to work and live in a country with a high standard of living and excellent social services.
• Access to a wide range of job opportunities in various industries.

Tips for applying

Here are some tips for applying for the Denmark job seeking permit programme:

• Research the job market and identify potential employers before arriving in Denmark.
• Have a clear and concise plan for your job search.
• Be prepared to provide evidence of your qualifications and work experience.
• Make sure to have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Denmark.
• Be patient and persistent in your job search, as finding employment in Denmark can be competitive.

The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E) job seeker visit visa

The UAE Jobseeker Visit Visa programme was launched on October 3, 2023, to attract and retain skilled workers and talents from around the world. The programme allows eligible individuals to enter the country and search for job opportunities without requiring a sponsor or host. The visa is valid for 60, 90, or 120 days from the date of issue, depending on the applicant’s preference.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the UAE Jobseeker Visit Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. They must be in the first, second, or third skill level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

2. They must be a recent graduate from one of the top 500 universities globally, according to the classification approved by the Ministry of Education. The year of graduation should not exceed two years from the year of application.

3. They must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

4. They must not require a host or sponsor.

Application process

Applicants can apply for the UAE Jobseeker Visit Visa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or Amer Centres. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Visit the GDRFA or Amer Centres’ website and register a new user account (if the account does not exist).

2. Select the required service and attach the required documents.

3. Pay the fees due for the service.

4. Submit the application.

5. Receive the entry visa via e-mail.

Benefits

The UAE Jobseeker Visit Visa programme offers several benefits to eligible individuals, including:

1. The opportunity to explore job opportunities in the UAE without requiring a sponsor or host.

2. A valid entry visa for 60, 90, or 120 days from the date of issue.

3. An easy and straightforward application process.

Tips for applying

To increase the chances of a successful application, applicants should:

1. Ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria.

2. Have all the required documents ready and attested, if necessary.

3. Provide accurate and complete information on the application form.

4. Pay the fees due for the service.

5. Follow up on the application status regularly.

Looking for Jobs in the USA as a B1/B2 Visa Holder

The rules for B1 and B2 visa holders in the USA changed in 2023, and the position described here has held since. Business and tourist visa holders are now allowed to apply for jobs and attend interviews for prospective employment. However, it is important to note that these visa holders must only change their visa status before starting to work.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible to search for jobs as a B1 or B2 visa holder in the USA, you must have a valid visa and be legally present in the country. You should also ensure that you meet the requirements for the specific job you are applying for.

Application process

To apply for a job as a B1 or B2 visa holder, you can use online job search websites or apply directly to employers. It is important to have a strong resume and cover letter to make a good impression on potential employers. Once you have secured a job offer, you must change your visa status before beginning to work.

Benefits

The main benefit of searching for jobs as a B1 or B2 visa holder is the opportunity to find employment and gain valuable work experience in the USA. It can also increase your chances of obtaining a more permanent visa or even a green card in the future.

Tips for applying

When searching for jobs as a B1 or B2 visa holder, it is important to be proactive in your job search and network with potential employers. You should also research the specific job market and requirements for your desired position to ensure that you are a good fit. Additionally, be sure to have a plan in place for changing your visa status once you secure a job offer.

In the event that a non-immigrant worker is terminated, they must leave the country within 60 days of termination of employment. However, there are several actions that a non-immigrant worker can take, including applying for a change of non-immigrant status or adjustment of status, or becoming the beneficiary of a non-frivolous petition to change employer. It is important to be aware of these options and take action as necessary to ensure that you remain legally present in the USA.

Where to go from here

The Job Seeker Visa programme is a great opportunity for job seekers to explore job opportunities and potentially launch a career abroad. We have discussed the various countries that offer Job Seeker Visas, including Germany, Sweden, Portugal, Austria, Spain, Denmark, U.A.E, and the USA, and provided information on their eligibility criteria and application processes.

Job Seeker Visas offer many benefits, such as the opportunity to experience the country, network in person, and have face-to-face interviews with prospective employers. They can be especially valuable compared to the typical virtual interviews used during the skilled worker job application process.

We encourage you to research and consider the Job Seeker Visa programs in various countries and take advantage of this opportunity to broaden your horizons and gain valuable international work experience.

If you need further information, we have provided links to the official immigration websites for each country. Additionally, there are many immigration consultants and agencies that can provide further guidance on the Job Seeker Visa application process.

Thank you for reading, and we wish you all the best in your job search journey!

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• The Tech Worker Shortfall Facing the US Semiconductor Sector

Once the paperwork makes sense, the next step is a job offer, because almost none of these routes start without one. Browse shortage jobs with visa sponsorship, updated daily.

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Last checked September 2026. The German Opportunity Card figures and Austria’s 70-point requirement were verified in September 2026. The Swedish, Portuguese and Danish durations and funds requirements are as reported by commercial sources and did not agree with each other, so confirm them officially before transferring money: at least one source says the Portuguese route is not currently accepting applications. Job seeker routes open and close with little notice.