Ever thought about working abroad? If you want to work while you travel, you’ll need to navigate the tricky world of visas.

The easiest way to get a work visa is through an employer. If your employer sponsors you, getting a work or residency permit in most countries becomes a lot easier. But if you’re self-employed or your company isn’t helping with your move, you’ll face more challenges.

One crucial thing you’ll need is a passport that has plenty of visa pages and won’t expire within the next year. Also, many places require you to show you have enough money for your return trip to ensure you can get home when your visa runs out.

Many countries’ work visa programs aim to attract young people for temporary jobs. If you’re under 30 (or in some cases 35), getting a working holiday visa is usually more straightforward. If you’re older, there are still other options for working abroad.

Here are 20 countries where it’s relatively easy to get a work visa:

1. Canada

Getting a temporary work visa in Canada is fairly straightforward and involves a few steps. Plus, the visas are quite affordable compared to other countries. Canada is especially welcoming to those in STEM fields and nursing.

2. Germany

Germany might not be the easiest place to get a permit, but freelancers should give it a try. Berlin’s “artist visa” allows self-employed people to establish residency. It requires a lot of paperwork, like your business plan and proof of health insurance, and costs up to €110. Germany is great for foodies and those who enjoy a good laugh, with cities like Cologne being particularly open-minded and communicative.

3. New Zealand and Australia

Young Americans can get employment visas in Australia and New Zealand without too much hassle. U.S. citizens aged 18-30 can get 12-month permits. In New Zealand, you need NZ$4,200 and a ticket home or enough money to buy one. Australia’s work and vacation visa has similar rules and limits work for any one employer to six months. There are also visas for recent engineering grads and those who pass a skills evaluation.

4. Singapore

Singapore, a global business hub, offers various work visa options and is known for its thriving economy. Qualified professionals are welcomed, and there’s a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage.

5. Sweden

Sweden is known for its high standard of living and inclusive work environment. The country’s work visa regulations are designed to attract highly skilled individuals.

6. Ireland

Ireland doesn’t have age restrictions for work visas; anyone can apply. However, you need to be enrolled in or have recently graduated from a university to get a 12-month Working Holiday Authorization. You also need a return ticket, pay a €300 fee, and have €1,500 to live on. Without a return ticket, you need to show you have €3,000. If you don’t meet these criteria, you can apply for a general work permit, but it’s harder to get.

7. United Kingdom

Even post-Brexit, the UK remains open to skilled workers from around the globe through programs like the Skilled Worker Visa.

8. The Netherlands

The Netherlands is on the lookout for entrepreneurs. They offer a one-year residency for those with a business idea, during which you work with a local mentor to develop your business. You can extend your stay with a self-employed work permit via the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT). The Netherlands is known for great work-life balance.

9. South Korea

South Korea is a good choice if you’re looking for high-paying jobs abroad. English teachers on an E-2 visa are well-paid, especially if certified. Teaching is the most common job for foreigners, but there are also options for working holidays and “looking for work” visas. Other job opportunities exist in multinational companies or the service sector.

10. United Arab Emirates

The UAE is an attractive destination for expats due to its strategic location and vibrant business environment. The country offers various visa options for qualified professionals to join its dynamic workforce.

11. Philippines

Chile, often dubbed the “South American Gem,” offers opportunities for foreign workers with its growing industry and stable economy. The country welcomes people with diverse skills through its work visa programs.

12. Malaysia

Malaysia blends innovation and tradition, offering the MySecondHome initiative to attract talented professionals. Its diverse cultural landscape presents great opportunities for those seeking a mix of tradition and modernity.

13. Denmark

Denmark is popular among professionals due to its work-life balance and high standard of living. The Positive List and Pay Limit Scheme simplify the work visa process for skilled professionals.

14. Norway

Norway offers a conducive environment for career growth along with its stunning natural beauty. The work visa regulations aim to attract skilled individuals to support its booming industries.

15. Switzerland

Switzerland’s strong economy and scenic landscapes make it a desirable destination. The well-organized work visa processes facilitate the entry of skilled professionals into the workforce.

16. Singapore

As one of the world’s major financial hubs, Singapore allows work permits for up to six months. The working holiday visa is easy to get for students and recent graduates, often leading to sponsorship. Many Singaporeans are foreigners, making it easier to find work, especially in IT, education, or hospitality. Language isn’t a barrier due to the high number of English speakers.

17. Estonia

Estonia is known for its high acceptance rate of work visa applications, although it receives fewer requests compared to other countries. It’s a great place for short-term projects and quick visa processing. The Work in Estonia website lists daily job openings.

18. Lithuania

Lithuania is attractive to labor migrants. You need a job offer from a Lithuanian employer first. Your employer submits the work permit application, which the Labor Exchange issues. Some non-EU citizens can work without a permit, but high-skilled jobs may require an advanced professional qualification.

19. Iceland

Iceland is known for its work-life balance and stunning scenery. A contract is required before applying for a visa. There are various work permits, including those for specialized knowledge, labor shortages, athletes, family reunions, students, and service contracts.

20. Latvia

To work in Latvia, foreigners need a work permit, a type D visa, and a residency permit. Exceptions are for those with permanent residency, managers of foreign firms representing a Latvian company, or Latvian company shareholders. EU citizens can work without a permit but need a residency permit for stays over ninety days.

Conclusion

Different countries have various requirements for work permits, influenced by administrative processes, skill shortages, and economic needs. The 20 countries highlighted offer numerous options for skilled professionals seeking to work abroad.

Each destination has unique opportunities, from the cultural diversity of Chile and Japan to the economic strengths of Germany and Canada. Understanding and navigating the specific requirements of each country ensures a smooth transition and successful work experience.

FAQs

1. What is the easiest way to get a work visa?
The easiest way to get a work visa is through an employer who sponsors you. This significantly simplifies the process in most countries.

2. Are there age restrictions for obtaining work visas?
Some countries have age restrictions, especially for working holiday visas, typically favoring those under 30 or 35. However, many countries offer other work visa options without age limits.

3. Do I need to have a return ticket to apply for a work visa?
Yes, many countries require proof of a return ticket or sufficient funds to buy one, ensuring you can leave when your visa expires.