Immigration Law · European Union

Get the Work Visa You Need to Start Your Job Abroad

Before you can start your new job, you need the visa that lets you enter the country for employment — and the application has to be flawless. We match you, free of charge, with a vetted immigration lawyer who handles work visa applications in your destination country, so you arrive with everything already in order.

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  • Lawyers across the EU & EEA
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14
Legal practice categories
155+
Specialised legal services
24–48h
Average first response
€0
Cost to get matched

Who this is for

Non-EU nationals with a job offer who need the right to enter and work

A work visa is the entry document that allows a non-EU national to travel to a European country for the purpose of employment. It is usually the first of two linked steps: you obtain the visa, then complete the work permit or residence registration that lets you actually start the job once you arrive. The visa application is typically lodged at a consulate or embassy in your home country, and it is assessed against strict, frequently updated requirements — a valid job offer, proof of qualifications, sufficient funds, insurance and clean criminal records. Mistakes here are costly, because a refusal can delay your start date by months and complicate later applications. We match you, free of charge, with a lawyer who handles work visa applications for your destination country, ensuring the application is complete, correct and submitted through the right channel the first time.


Why work visas get refused

The visa is the gate before the gate.
Get it wrong and the job waits — or vanishes.

Consulates apply strict, document-heavy standards, and a single inconsistency between your papers and your application can trigger a refusal.

01

Consulate document standards

Work visa applications demand exact, current documents — job contracts, qualifications, funds, insurance and police certificates. A mismatch or missing paper at the consulate is a common, avoidable refusal.

02

Inconsistencies across the file

Your application, employer’s paperwork and supporting documents must all tell the same story. Small discrepancies in dates, titles or salary figures invite scrutiny and delay.

03

Timing the whole move

Visa processing, notice periods and job start dates must line up, often across borders and time zones. A mistimed application can leave you with a visa that arrives after the job is gone.


What you get

A lawyer who gets your visa right the first time

We match you with immigration lawyers who handle work visa applications for your destination country regularly.

The right visa type identified

Your lawyer confirms which work visa category fits your job and profile — standard employment, highly skilled, transfer or short-term — so you apply under the correct heading from the start.

A complete, consistent file

Every document is checked for accuracy and consistency before submission, so your application, employer paperwork and personal evidence all align and clear the consulate without follow-up.

Consulate process navigated

Appointments, fees, biometrics and processing channels are managed correctly for your destination, removing the administrative friction that stalls many applications.

The move sequenced properly

Your lawyer aligns visa processing with your notice period and start date, and plans the follow-on permit or registration, so you arrive ready to work rather than facing a second hurdle.


Coverage

Work visa lawyers across Europe

Work visas are issued and assessed nationally, and consulate practices differ, so the right lawyer is one who knows your destination country’s process inside out. We match cases across the following countries and beyond:

SpainPortugalGermanyFranceItalyNetherlandsBelgiumIrelandAustriaPolandGreeceSweden+ more EU / EEA countries

Frequently asked

Work visas — common questions

What is the difference between a work visa and a work permit?

The work visa authorises you to enter the country for employment, while the work permit authorises you to work once there. They are usually two steps of one process: you obtain the visa at a consulate, then complete the permit or registration after arrival.

Where do I apply for a work visa?

Work visa applications are typically lodged at the embassy or consulate of your destination country in your country of residence, often after the employer’s side of the process has been approved. A lawyer can confirm the exact channel and sequence for your case.

What documents are typically required for a work visa?

You will usually need a valid passport, a job offer or contract, proof of qualifications, evidence of sufficient funds, health insurance, a clean criminal record and, where applicable, a copy of the approved work permit. The exact list varies by country, and a lawyer will confirm it before you apply.

How long does work visa processing take?

Processing times vary by country, visa type and consulate workload, typically from a few weeks to several months. Applying early and filing a complete, consistent application are the most effective ways to avoid delays.

What if my work visa is refused?

A refusal is not necessarily final. Most countries allow you to address the grounds for refusal and reapply, and some permit an appeal. A lawyer can review the refusal, correct the underlying issue and guide a stronger resubmission.

Can my family join me on my work visa?

In many countries, yes — spouses, partners and dependent children can often apply to join you once you hold a valid work visa and permit, subject to conditions such as income and accommodation. A lawyer can coordinate the family’s applications alongside yours.


Free case review

Arrive ready to work, not ready to reapply

Tell us about your job offer and destination, and we’ll connect you with a lawyer who handles work visas there — free of charge, with no obligation to hire.