No Job Offer? No Problem! Apply for a Job Seeker Visa in These 7 Countries

Looking to move abroad but don’t have a job offer yet? Don’t worry, you can still make your dreams a reality! Many countries now offer Job Seeker Visas, allowing you to live temporarily while you hunt for employment without needing a sponsor or an offer letter. Once you find a job, you can usually transition to a work permit or even permanent residence.

What Is Job Seeker Visa?

A Job Seeker Visa is a temporary residence permit that allows individuals to stay in a country while actively searching for employment. It typically doesn’t require a job offer upfront, offering a pathway to permanent residence once employment is secured.

Countries Offering Job Seeker Visas 2025

For many, securing a job seeker visa is the first step towards long-term residency. Once you find employment and meet the specific requirements of the country, you can often transition to a permanent resident status.

Here’s a list of 7 countries offering job seeker visas in 2025—plus everything you need to know about eligibility, documents, and duration!

1. Germany

As one of Europe’s economic powerhouses, Germany boasts a thriving job market, particularly in engineering, IT, and healthcare. A six-month job seeker visa gives you ample time to explore opportunities and immerse yourself in German culture.

• Visa: Germany Job Seeker Visa
• Duration: Up to six months

Eligibility Snapshot

• Must be over 18 years of age.
• Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
• Possess a minimum of five years of relevant work experience.
• Demonstrate financial stability to cover your living expenses (€5,604 in a blocked account or a sponsor’s obligation letter).

Key Documents

• Passport (issued within the last 10 years, with at least 12 months of validity).
• Three recent passport photos.
• Comprehensive cover letter outlining your job search intentions.
• Proof of your academic qualifications (degree certificates).
• Evidence of your accommodation in Germany.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources.
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Valid health insurance coverage.
• Your birth certificate or Aadhaar card.

2. Austria

Known for its high quality of life and stunning Alpine landscapes, Austria seeks “very highly qualified workers” in specialised fields. If you have a strong professional background, this could be your ideal destination.

• Visa: Austria Job Seeker Visa for Very Highly Qualified Workers
• Duration: Up to six months

Eligibility Snapshot

Achieve a minimum of 70 points on Austria’s specific 100-point criteria list for highly qualified workers. This system evaluates factors like awards, research contributions, academic degrees, salary history, and language skills.

Key Documents

• Your valid passport.
• A recent passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of your accommodation in Austria.
• Evidence of valid health insurance.
• Documentation proving you have adequate financial means to support yourself.
• Supporting documents for each criterion you meet on the points list (e.g., award certificates, research papers, degree transcripts).

3. Sweden

With a strong emphasis on innovation and a welcoming international environment, Sweden offers a job seeker permit for individuals who have completed advanced-level studies. This is a fantastic opportunity to leverage your education in a dynamic job market.

• Visa: Sweden Residence Permit for Job Seeking or Business Start-Up
• Duration: Three to nine months

Eligibility Snapshot

• Must have completed studies equivalent to an advanced level degree (e.g., a 60 or 120-credit Master’s degree, a professional degree of 60-330 credits, or a PhD).
• Be able to financially support yourself during your stay.

Key Documents

• Your valid passport.
• Official academic transcripts from your higher education institution(s).
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses.
• Valid health insurance.
• A digital copy of a signed letter of consent allowing the Swedish Council for Higher Education (UHR) to verify your educational documents with institutions in your home country.

4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

A vibrant and rapidly developing nation, the UAE attracts professionals from around the globe. Their job seeker visa caters to skilled individuals and recent graduates from top-tier universities.

• Visa: UAE Job Seeker Visa
• Duration: 60, 90, or 120 days

Eligibility Snapshot

Be a legislator, manager, business executive, or a professional/technician in scientific, technical, or humanitarian fields (first, second, or third skill level as per MOHRE).

OR Be a graduate from one of the top 500 universities globally (as per the Ministry of Education’s approved classification) within the last two years, holding a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and meet the prescribed financial guarantee.

Key Documents

• Your valid passport.
• Colour passport-sized photographs.
• Attested copies of your qualification certificates (degree diplomas).

5. Portugal

With its stunning coastline, rich history, and growing economy, Portugal is an increasingly attractive destination for job seekers. While official details are limited online, it’s worth exploring this option.

• Visa: Portugal Job Seeker Visa
• Duration: Up to 120 days, with a possibility of a 60-day extension.

Eligibility Snapshot

• Specific eligibility criteria are best obtained by contacting the Diplomatic Portal of the Portuguese Government directly.

Key Documents

• A completed visa application form.
• Your passport with at least three months of validity beyond your intended stay.
• Two recent passport photographs.
• A criminal record certificate from your home country.
• Proof of valid travel insurance.
• Evidence of sufficient financial resources equivalent to at least three months of the national minimum wage.

6. Spain

If you’ve already invested in Spanish education, Spain offers a unique pathway to stay and build your career or launch a business. Enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle while you pursue your professional goals.

• Visa: Spain Residence Permit for Job Search or Business Start-Up
• Duration: 12 to 24 months

Eligibility Snapshot

• Must have completed your higher education at a Spanish university.
• Possess private or public medical insurance.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial means to support your residency.
• Have obtained a Level 6 or higher qualification according to the European Qualifications Framework from your Spanish university.

Key Documents

• Your valid passport.
• A completed EX01 application form (available online).
• A certificate of your health insurance coverage.
• Your academic certificate or diploma from a Spanish university.

7. Denmark

Known for its high living standards and strong social welfare system, Denmark offers a job-seeking residence permit to both experienced employees facing redundancy and recent graduates from higher education institutions.

• Visa: Denmark Job Seeking Permit (Post-Study or Post-Employment)
• Duration: Up to six months

Eligibility Snapshot

For Employees: Must have held a residence permit under specific schemes in Denmark and lost their job due to cutbacks or similar reasons. An application must be made within two days of termination.

For Students: Must have completed a PhD or other higher-level studies in Denmark. During the job-seeking period, students can work up to 20 hours per week (full-time in June, July, and August). Professionals can only use this permit for job searching.

Key Documents

• Your valid passport.
• Proof of payment of the visa application fee.
• For employees: A letter of dismissal or documentation explaining the reason for unemployment.
• Biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).

Ready to Take the Leap?

Job seeker visas can be an invaluable tool for those determined to build an international career. By understanding the requirements and preparing your documents carefully, you can take a significant step towards your global ambitions.

Remember to always check the official immigration websites of the respective countries for the most up-to-date information and regulations. Good luck with your international job search!