Foreign nationals eager to embark on an international career now have more pathways than ever before. Several countries have expanded or introduced Job Seeker Visa programs, offering new hope to those without a prior job offer or employer sponsorship.

A Job Seeker Visa grants eligible candidates temporary residence in a foreign country while they actively search for employment. This approach not only provides valuable time to explore job markets firsthand but also offers a structured route to achieving long-term residency once employment is secured.

If you’re considering a bold move to advance your career abroad, here are seven countries where you can relocate using a Job Seeker Visa — giving you the perfect platform to kickstart your global journey.

1. Germany

Germany remains one of the most attractive destinations for skilled professionals, thanks to its strong economy and high demand in sectors such as engineering, IT, and healthcare.

• Visa Type: Germany Job Seeker Visa

• Duration: Up to six months

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old

• Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree

• Possess a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience

• Demonstrate financial stability with at least €5,604 in a blocked account

Key Documents Needed:

• Valid passport

• Recent passport photographs

• Cover letter outlining your job search strategy

• Degree certificates

• Proof of accommodation in Germany

• Updated CV

• Health insurance

• Proof of financial means

• Birth certificate or Aadhaar card

With Germany’s solid job market, especially for technical roles, securing employment can also lead to a long-term residence permit.

2. Austria

Austria targets “very highly qualified workers” through a sophisticated point-based immigration system, offering excellent prospects for top talents.

• Visa Type: Austria Job Seeker Visa for Highly Qualified Workers

• Duration: Up to six months

Eligibility Requirements:

• Score a minimum of 70 out of 100 points, assessed across education, research achievements, international awards, salary history, and language skills.

Key Documents Needed:

• Valid passport

• Passport-sized photograph

• Proof of accommodation in Austria

• Health insurance coverage

• Proof of sufficient financial resources

• Supporting documents related to the points-based evaluation criteria

Austria’s emphasis on high-level professionals makes it a prime choice for scientists, researchers, and executives seeking European career opportunities.

3. Sweden

Sweden offers a unique opportunity for individuals holding advanced academic degrees who wish to seek employment or start a business.

• Visa Type: Sweden Residence Permit for Job Seeking or Business Start-Up

• Duration: Three to nine months

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must possess a Master’s, PhD, or equivalent advanced-level degree

• Show proof of sufficient financial resources to cover the stay

Key Documents Needed:

• Valid passport

• Academic transcripts and diplomas

• Proof of available financial means

• Health insurance coverage for the entire stay

• Letter of consent for verification of academic qualifications

Sweden’s dynamic economy and emphasis on innovation create fertile ground for highly educated individuals seeking new horizons.

4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE has introduced flexible job seeker visas tailored to various professional and academic backgrounds.

• Visa Type: UAE Job Seeker Visa

• Duration: 60, 90, or 120 days

Eligibility Requirements:

• Professionals in designated sectors

• Graduates from one of the world’s top 500 universities within the past two years

Key Documents Needed:

• Valid passport

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Attested academic degree certificates

The UAE’s booming economy, particularly in sectors like finance, technology, and energy, makes it an attractive option for ambitious job seekers worldwide.

5. Portugal

Portugal’s welcoming stance towards foreign workers extends to its Job Seeker Visa, allowing individuals to enter even without a prior job offer.

• Visa Type: Portugal Job Seeker Visa

• Duration: Initially 120 days, extendable by an additional 60 days

Eligibility Requirements and Key Documents:

• Completed visa application form

• Valid passport

• Two recent passport photographs

• Criminal record certificate from the applicant’s country of residence

• Travel health insurance

• Proof of sufficient financial means (minimum equivalent to three months of Portuguese minimum wage)

Applicants should consult Portugal’s Diplomatic Portal for the latest requirements and application procedures. Portugal’s vibrant startup scene and relaxed lifestyle make it a favorite among international workers.

6. Spain

Spain offers a specialized residence permit to recent graduates from its own universities, providing an excellent springboard for launching a professional career in Europe.

• Visa Type: Spain Residence Permit for Job Search or Business Start-Up

• Duration: Between 12 and 24 months

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must have graduated from a Spanish university

• Hold at least a Level 6 qualification (Bachelor’s degree or higher)

• Demonstrate sufficient financial means and possess valid health insurance

Key Documents Needed:

• Valid passport

• Completed EX01 application form

• Health insurance certificate

• Spanish academic degree certificate

Spain’s permit system is especially beneficial for international students who wish to extend their stay and transition into the European workforce.

7. Denmark

Denmark provides a flexible Job Seeking Permit, catering both to recently unemployed skilled workers and fresh PhD graduates.

• Visa Type: Denmark Job Seeking Permit (Post-Study or Post-Employment)

• Duration: Up to six months

Eligibility Requirements:

• Employees dismissed under certain Danish schemes (must apply within two days of dismissal)

• PhD graduates or individuals with similar qualifications from Danish institutions

Key Documents Needed:

• Valid passport

• Proof of payment for the application fee

• Dismissal letter (for job seekers transitioning from employment)

• Submission of biometric data

Denmark’s strong focus on research, innovation, and green technologies offers fertile ground for professionals and academics alike.

Final Thoughts

In today’s globalized world, moving abroad without an existing job offer is no longer just a dream — it’s an accessible reality. Thanks to Job Seeker Visa programs in these seven countries, skilled professionals, recent graduates, and ambitious job hunters have new avenues to explore, build careers, and eventually settle abroad.

If you’re planning an international career move, now is the time to start preparing your applications, organizing your documents, and taking the first step toward a life-changing opportunity.