Working abroad can be a good experience for personal and career development. However, finding the perfect place can be quite difficult, as well as getting a work visa. Find out which countries offer the best work visas in the world and what the conditions for obtaining a permit are

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Many people dream of working abroad, but the process of obtaining a visa can be quite complicated and confusing, because states usually give preference to their own citizens when hiring and limit the vacancies available to foreigners.

However, there are certain countries that welcome foreign workers. What kind of states are these? Ranking of the best countries for obtaining a work visa in 2024 and the easiest to apply for work permits thereafter.

USA

Pros: the opportunity to live and work in the most developed country in the world, gain professional experience, in the long run - the path to citizenship.

Cons: high taxes - from 30 to 45%.

Most foreigners believe that it is almost impossible to get a work visa in the USA. However, the country offers many types of permits, both temporary and immigration, and the procedure for obtaining some of them is quite simple.

O-1 talent visa

The permit is created for people who have extraordinary achievements in the professional field. It is suitable for those professionals who have achieved high recognition in the fields of business, art, education, sports, television and film. Among the requirements is to provide proof that you are an excellent specialist in your field and are known for achievements at the national or international levels.

H-1B visa for highly qualified professionals

One of the most popular types of work visas among foreigners. It allows you to work in America in positions related to computer technology and engineering. Due to the fact that this permit is very popular among foreigners, the USA has set an annual limit for this type of visa - 85,000 permits. Requirements are a college degree (bachelor's degree or higher) and an offer of employment from a US employer.

Top 10 most popular work visas in the USA by link.

Canada

Pros: All citizens and permanent residents receive universal health care. A strong labor market welcomes foreign workers.

Cons: The weather can be quite extreme, the state also has high taxes and cost of living.

The country is best suited for professionals looking for work in the field of health care. The average salary in Canada is high and the cost of living is quite reasonable, making it a great place to work and save. Canada is also one of the safest countries on Earth and has a thriving economy that ranks 14th in the world in terms of size.

Visa for highly qualified professionals of the Global Talent Stream

This permit not only provides a fast track to permanent residency, but also opens the door to well-paying jobs in sectors such as technology and engineering. The program is a joint initiative of Employment and Social Development Canada and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Under this program, Canadian employers can hire highly skilled foreign workers on a temporary basis with expedited work permit processing times. This is a great opportunity for both Canadian employers and foreign workers to take advantage of a simplified immigration process. Foreigners who have work experience in a certain field or profession can apply for a visa based on the program.

The available types of Canadian work visas and paths to citizenship were discussed in detail in this article.

Switzerland

Pros: high quality of life, nature, diverse culture and international community.

Cons: high taxes and high living costs.

Switzerland is an ideal place for expats to work in Europe, as the country has a strong economy, high salaries and many job opportunities, particularly in the financial and pharmaceutical fields. Also, the main advantage of the country is its fantastic nature - snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes and exquisite landscapes.

Swiss employment card

A work permit that can be obtained by highly qualified workers (people who have a higher education, as well as many years of professional experience).

Your future employer must prove that there is no suitable person to fill the vacancy from Switzerland or from an EU/EFTA country.

In addition, the wages, social security contributions and employment conditions of foreign workers must be in line with the conditions customary for the region, profession and specific sector.

How an expat can find a job in Switzerland, as well as about the features of the labor market and the procedure for obtaining a work visa at the link.

Australia

Pros: Australia is known for its unique wildlife, stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle. The state also has a developed social sphere, and the path to Australian citizenship is relatively simple.

Cons: The cost of living may seem high to you, and the country also has considerable taxes - 25-47%.

For a long time, Australia was the easiest country to get a work visa. And although the procedure has been slightly complicated in recent years, it is still possible to get a job here.

Skilled Independent Visa

Work permit for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency and a variety of high paying jobs in Australia.

This permit can be obtained by foreigners who meet the following requirements:

1. Have a job offer from an Australian employer.

2. Confirm the required level of qualification for the position.

3. Fluent in English.

4. The expat has no criminal record.

Employers can sponsor an employee for a maximum of four years. The visa allows you to move with your immediate family and come and go from Australia as often as you need.

Visa for young professionals

In Australia, the Working Holiday Maker program is approved, which allows citizens of certain countries under the age of 30 to travel to Australia for a long period and support themselves during their stay with short-term work in any industry.

The procedure for obtaining an Australian work visa is at the link.

Singapore

Pros: Low taxes (0-22%), a thriving economy with lots of jobs and an exciting, vibrant city.

Cons: Obtaining permanent residency or citizenship is notoriously difficult, making it less attractive to those planning a long-term move.

Singapore is the best choice for expats looking for a dynamic life and adventure, as the country has a thriving economy and numerous job opportunities. Singapore also provides an exciting and financially rewarding lifestyle.

Professional work visa

1. Employment Pass – for foreign professionals who earn at least S$3,600 per month.

2. EntrePass – for entrepreneurs who want to start a new business.

3. Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) - for highly paid current Employment Pass holders who want more flexibility.

On the basis of permits, you can work in the country for 12 months. The residence permit is valid for up to 2 years and can be extended.

S Pass visa

Available for mid-level professionals such as technicians. To obtain it, you need to confirm your level of professional skills and find a job with a minimum wage of 2,200 Singapore dollars per month.

Read more about the specifics of employment in Singapore here.

EU

Pros: the opportunity to work in different EU countries, get to know rich history, diverse culture and fascinating landscapes.

Cons: it can be difficult to navigate the taxation system with a significant difference in rates between countries (20-50%).

If you are attracted by Europe's rich history, diverse cultures and culinary masterpieces, the EU Blue Card is your gateway to the continent.

EU blue card

A residence and work permit in one of the European countries for highly qualified workers. It can be issued by citizens of states that are not members of the union.

On the basis of a blue card, a foreigner can enter the EU (including re-entry), stay and work in the country that issued it, as well as move freely through the states of the Union. The advantage is that it is allowed to move together with the family.

Also, the holder of a blue card receives all the rights, like a citizen of the country of residence. However, work is allowed only in the field in which the permit was issued.

Requirements and procedure for obtaining a Blue Card in 2024 at the link.

How to increase your chances of employment abroad?

Some useful tips that increase the chances of getting a work visa:

- It is easier for professionals working in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics to find a job and get a visa abroad.

- Teaches English - the TOEFL certificate is not always a mandatory condition for obtaining a work permit, but expats who speak English can claim a higher salary.

- Open a business in the chosen country - investors who create jobs for local specialists usually have the right to a simplified procedure for obtaining a permit and receive many benefits.

- Foreigners aged 18 to 35 have the right to apply for a working holiday visa. This permit can be issued in almost 60 countries of the world. Usually, on the basis of this document, you can work abroad for up to 12 months. Only certain countries have restrictions such as the need to prove financial security.

To successfully apply for a work visa, you need to find a country that offers the best conditions, choose the right type of work visa and prepare the appropriate package of documents. Often this process can be confusing and sometimes even contradictory, so it is better to seek the advice of an expert for a successful permit.

We will remind you! The European healthcare system is currently experiencing an acute shortage of doctors and medical personnel. To overcome the difficulties, some states have simplified immigration requirements to attract specialists from abroad. The list of countries most in need of specialists in 2024 is at the link.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.