Employer-specific work permits
Some work permits are tied to a named employer and job. The employer may need a labour-market assessment, unless an exemption applies.
Permit conditions and eligibility depend on the route.
Read official requirements WORK PERMIT PATHWAY GUIDEUnderstand the permit.
Understand the permit.
Then plan the move.
Work permits explain how you may be allowed to work in a country. This guide helps you compare common pathways before you start searching for a job.
COMPARE ROUTES
Find the type of pathway to research
Start with a destination and broad route type. Each official source has the latest eligibility details.
Showing 12 pathways
Open work permits
An open permit may allow work for different employers, but it is available only to people who meet specific eligibility rules.
An open permit is not a general job-seeker permit.
Read official requirements Skilled Worker route
This route generally requires an eligible job offer from an approved sponsor and the role and applicant to meet current requirements.
Confirm the sponsor, occupation and salary rules before applying.
Read official requirements Talent and specialist routes
Some applicants may qualify through routes for recognised talent, high potential, or specific specialist work rather than standard sponsorship.
Each route has its own eligibility and evidence requirements.
Read official requirements Employer-sponsored visas
Some skilled-worker visas require an employer nomination and a role that satisfies the current occupation and visa criteria.
Check the exact visa subclass and nomination rules.
Read official requirements Points-tested skilled visas
Certain skilled migration routes assess factors such as occupation, skills assessment, points and an invitation to apply.
Meeting a points threshold does not itself guarantee an invitation.
Read official requirements Skilled employment
Skilled employment routes commonly depend on a qualified job, recognised qualifications and the relevant residence-permit conditions.
Recognition and licensing can vary by profession.
Read official requirements EU Blue Card and Opportunity Card
Germany offers routes for qualified professionals, including the EU Blue Card and an Opportunity Card for eligible jobseekers.
The Opportunity Card has its own qualification, funds and work conditions.
Read official requirements Temporary worker classifications
Many temporary work classifications require a U.S. employer to file a petition before the worker applies for a visa or status.
The right classification depends on the role and applicant.
Read official requirements Employment-based immigration
Long-term employment-based options are divided into categories, with requirements that can include employer sponsorship or other qualifying evidence.
Availability and wait times vary by category and country of chargeability.
Read official requirements Accredited Employer Work Visa
This work visa is connected to a job offer from an accredited employer and has role and applicant requirements.
Check employer accreditation and current job-check rules.
Read official requirements Working holiday visas
Working holiday visas are available to eligible people from participating countries, generally with age and stay conditions.
Availability, age limits and conditions depend on nationality.
Read official requirements Important: This page is general information, not legal advice or a visa eligibility assessment. Immigration rules, route names and availability change. Always confirm requirements on the linked official government website before making decisions.