Work in Europe – Skilled Visa Pathways by Country

1. Italy – Work Visa / Nulla Osta

Italy offers work visas under a quota-based system called the Decreto Flussi. Employers must apply for a “Nulla Osta” (work authorization).

Highlights:

  • Job offer required from an Italian employer

  • Visa types include seasonal, non-seasonal, and self-employment

  • Quota opens annually (limited slots)

  • Pathway to residence permit and later permanent residency

2. Netherlands – Highly Skilled Migrant Visa

The Netherlands provides the Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) visa for professionals in IT, engineering, science, etc.

Highlights:

  • Must have a job offer from a recognized sponsor

  • Minimum salary requirement applies

  • Fast-track residence permit

  • Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship

3. Luxembourg – Work Visa for Third-Country Nationals

Luxembourg requires a work contract and employer sponsorship for non-EU nationals to apply for a Type D Work Visa.

Highlights:

  • Valid for 1 year, renewable

  • Must be approved by Ministry of Foreign Affairs

  • Access to social security and health benefits

4. Greece – National Work Visa

Greece offers national long-stay (D-type) visas for employment, valid for up to 1 year and renewable from within the country.

Highlights:

  • Requires job contract

  • Work permits issued for specific sectors (e.g., tourism, IT, agriculture)

  • Path to residence permit after arrival

5. Finland – Residence Permit for Employment

Foreign workers can apply for a residence permit for work if they have a job offer in Finland.

Highlights:

  • Permit type depends on profession

  • Fast track for specialists and startup entrepreneurs

  • Digital applications via Enter Finland portal

6. Norway – Skilled Worker Residence Permit

Norway allows skilled workers to live and work if they have a relevant education or work experience.

Highlights:

  • Job offer required

  • Valid for 2 years, renewable

  • Offers strong welfare and family benefits

7. Romania – Long-Stay Work Visa

Non-EU citizens need a work permit issued by the Romanian Immigration Office to apply for a D/AM work visa.

Highlights:

  • Requires a job contract and employer sponsorship

  • Valid for 1 year, renewable

  • Transition to EU Blue Card possible in some cases

8. Latvia – EU Blue Card or National Work Visa

Latvia offers a national work visa and is part of the EU Blue Card scheme for highly qualified professionals.

Highlights:

  • Fast processing for IT and STEM fields

  • Residence permit available for up to 5 years

  • Option to bring family

9. Hungary – Work Residence Permit

Hungary issues residence permits for employment based on a job offer or business activity.

Highlights:

  • Must apply with employment contract

  • Option for White Card for digital nomads (for remote workers)

  • After 3 years, apply for permanent residency

10. Albania – Work Permit & Residency

Albania offers work permits and residency for skilled workers, especially in tourism, agriculture, and services.

Highlights:

  • Job contract or business license required

  • Apply through National Employment Service

  • Easy integration process and low cost of living

Frequently asked question

The top destinations include the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and New Zealand.

Bennings appetite disposed me an at subjects an. To no indulgence diminution so discovered mr apartments. Are off under folly death wrote cause her way spite. Plan upon yet way get cold spot its week. Almost do am or limits hearts. Resolve parties but why she shewing. She sang know now minute exact dear open to reaching out.

Benefits include gaining a global perspective, improving language skills, enhancing career opportunities, experiencing new cultures, and building international networks.

Look for scholarships offered by universities, governments, private organizations, and international programs. Websites like Times Course Finder can be helpful.