Due to the pandemic and widespread layoffs, many countries are experiencing a shortage of labor. To address this issue, the concept of a "Job Seeker Visa" has become increasingly popular. A Job Seeker Visa is a type of work visa that enables individuals to enter a foreign country and search for employment for a specified duration. If successful, they must obtain a work permit to remain in the country. Presently, countries that are offering Job Seeker Visas to Indian citizens include Germany, Austria, Sweden, the UAE, and Portugal.
1) Germany : Germany introduced the Job Seeker Visa in 2012, which has become one of the most common types of visa for qualified professionals to explore job opportunities in the country. The visa allows for a six-month stay in Germany and was recently promoted by the German Chancellor to Indian IT professionals during a visit to India.
To be eligible for the Job Seeker Visa, applicants must have a Bachelor's or Master's degree from a German university or an equivalent foreign degree, as well as at least five years of experience in their related field. They must also provide proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Germany and obtain valid travel or medical insurance for the duration of their stay or until they receive a work permit. Applicants can apply for the visa at the German embassy or consulate in their country by filling out an online application form, gathering required documents, scheduling an appointment, and submitting the form and documents in person, followed by an interview at the embassy or consulate.
2) Sweden : Sweden has introduced a Job Seeker Visa that allows highly qualified individuals to search for jobs. The visa is valid for three months, but it can be extended for another six months if necessary. To be eligible, applicants must have a bachelor's, master's, or other advanced degree, be able to support themselves during their stay, and have a well-laid-out plan to look for jobs or start their own business. They must also have comprehensive health insurance, a valid passport, and be living outside of Sweden.
To apply for the Job Seeker Visa, visit the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country. Gather all necessary documents, including a letter of consent to the Swedish Council for Higher Education, and fill out the application form online. Submit the application form, along with the required documents and letter of consent, to the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country.
3) Austria : Austria offers a Job Seeker (Category D) visa for highly qualified professionals who are eligible, with a validity of six months. Applicants must score a minimum of 70 points based on specific criteria that include special qualifications/skills, work experience, language skills, age, and studies in Austria. For instance, having a PhD or post-doctoral qualifications can earn 40 points, while having up to six months of work experience in Austria can give an applicant 10 points.
To apply, applicants must gather all the required documents, fill out the application form, and submit the documents along with the application form in person to the competent Austrian representative (embassy or consulate). All documents must be submitted as originals and copies. Applicants must also provide translations into German or English if the documents are not in those languages.
4) UAE : The UAE job market is attracting highly skilled workers and offers a single-entry Job Seeker Visa valid for 60, 90, or 120 days. The minimum educational level required is a Bachelor’s degree and applicants must be classified in the first, second, or third skill level per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
To apply, visit the UAE embassy or consulate in your home country, register on the government website, select the required service, attach/upload necessary documents, pay the fee, and submit the application. Applicants must also have a valid passport to be eligible for the visa.
5) Portugal : Portugal's job seeker visa is a new option for foreigners to enter and explore job opportunities. The visa is valid for 120 days and can be renewed for an additional 60 days. Eligibility requirements include a valid passport, health insurance, proof of funds, and a return ticket.
To apply for the visa, visit the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country and provide documents such as a valid passport, recent photos, criminal record certificate, valid travel insurance, transport document, proof of financial resources, and pay the fee.
6) Conclusion : Job Seeker Visas are becoming a popular option for highly skilled individuals looking to explore job opportunities in foreign countries. Germany, Sweden, Austria, the UAE, and Portugal are among the countries offering these visas. Each country has specific eligibility requirements and application procedures that interested individuals must adhere to. These visas provide a valuable opportunity for professionals to broaden their horizons and explore new job markets.