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Are you working for a European company that is defining a global mobility strategy or considering expanding its international team? Navigating the complex world of visas and work permits for hiring international talent can be challenging. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about work permits across Europe, including specific permits for Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, the UK, and Portugal.
One of the most common work permits in Europe is the EU Blue Card, available in 25 of the 27 EU member states, excluding Denmark and Ireland. Introduced to fill skill shortages, minimize bureaucracy, and enhance alignment within the EU, the Blue Card allows highly qualified workers from outside the European Union to live and work in a member state. Benefits include:
Freedom to travel within the EU
Ability to bring family members
Access to the same working conditions and social benefits as EU citizens
Eligibility to apply for permanent residency
In addition to the Blue Card, Germany offers a work visa for qualified professionals. This visa is available to individuals with higher education or qualified vocational training outside Germany who have a job offer in Germany. It is issued for up to four years, or the duration of the work contract if shorter. Requirements include:
Recognized qualifications in Germany or equivalent to German higher education
A concrete job offer from a German company
Minimum gross annual salary of EUR 46,530 for those over 45
Approval from the Federal Employment Agency (BA)
Proof that no preferential workers (EU or EEA nationals) are available for the job
Comparable employment conditions to domestic employees
The Red-White-Red Card is Austria's primary work permit, issued for 24 months. It allows fixed-term settlement and employment by a specific employer. Applicants must have a fixed and regular income to cover living costs, health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Minimum monthly income requirements (as of January 2023) are:
€1,110.26 for singles
€1,751.56 for couples
An additional €171.31 for each child
The Highly Skilled Migrant Permit in the Netherlands allows recognized sponsors to hire employees based on work contracts. The salary requirements for 2023 are:
€5,008 gross per month for migrants 30 years or older
€3,672 gross per month for those younger than 30
€2,631 gross per month under the reduced salary criterion
€5,867 gross per month for the Blue Card
Employers must become recognized sponsors by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), a process that may take 30 to 90 days.
The Residence Visa for Highly Skilled Professionals in Spain grants residence and work authorization to:
Management or highly qualified staff of large businesses, corporate groups, or SMEs in strategic sectors
Management or highly qualified staff of business projects in the general interest
Graduates and postgraduates
Visa decisions are made within ten working days, and residence permit decisions typically within 20 days.
The UK’s Skilled Worker Visa allows employers to hire international talent. Employers must obtain a sponsorship license and handle visa applications through the Sponsorship Management System. Employee eligibility requirements include:
A 'certificate of sponsorship' from the employer
A job on the list of eligible occupations
Minimum salary requirements
Proof of English language proficiency
The Critical Skills Employment Permit is designed for skilled workers in professions with a shortage in Ireland. Requirements include:
Relevant qualifications, skills, and experience
An annual salary of at least €32,000 for occupations on the Critical Skills Occupation List
A job offer valid for two years or more
No more than 50% of the workforce being non-EEA nationals unless the company is a start-up supported by Enterprise Ireland
The Portugal Highly Qualified Activity Visa is for highly-qualified professionals, including:
ICT professionals
Management positions
Scientific researchers, professors, and PhD students
Science, Engineering, and Health professionals
Legal, Social, and Cultural professionals
Benefits include a residence permit valid for one year (renewable every two years), freedom to move within the EU and Schengen area, and eligibility to apply for the EU Blue Card and Portuguese citizenship after five years.
Prepared on the information from localyze.com