For many Pakistanis aiming for an international career, landing a job abroad without a pre-arranged offer can be difficult. However, several countries are now offering Job Seeker Visas — allowing individuals to live temporarily in the country while they search for employment, without needing a sponsor.

Here’s a breakdown of seven countries offering job seeker visas in 2025, along with eligibility criteria and required documents.

What Is a Job Seeker Visa?

A Job Seeker Visa is a temporary residence permit that lets you stay in a country for a specific time to find a job. Once you secure employment, you can usually apply for a work permit or even permanent residency.

7 Countries Offering Job Seeker Visas in 2025

1. Germany

• Visa Name: Germany Job Seeker Visa

• Stay Duration: Up to 6 months

• Eligibility:

  • Must be over 18 years old

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree

  • Have at least 5 years of relevant work experience

  • Proof of financial means (€5,604 in a blocked account or sponsorship letter)

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years)

  • Recent passport-size photos

  • Academic transcripts

  • Proof of accommodation

  • Financial documents

  • Health insurance

  • CV

  • Birth certificate or CNIC

2. Austria

• Visa Name: Austria Job Seeker Visa for Very Highly Qualified Workers

• Stay Duration: Up to 6 months

• Eligibility:

  • Score at least 70 points in Austria’s 100-point evaluation system (based on education, research, awards, and language skills)

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport

  • Recent photograph

  • Accommodation proof

  • Financial evidence

  • Health insurance

  • Qualification documents

3. Sweden

• Visa Name: Sweden Residence Permit for Job Seeking or Business Start-Up

• Stay Duration: 3 to 9 months

• Eligibility:

  • Must have completed an advanced degree (Master’s or PhD)

  • Proof of sufficient funds during stay

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport

  • Academic certificates

  • Financial proof

  • Health insurance

  • Consent form for degree verification

4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• Visa Name: UAE Job Seeker Visa

• Stay Duration: 60, 90, or 120 days

• Eligibility:

  • Skilled professionals in managerial, executive, or technical roles

  • Recent graduates from top 500 universities (within the last two years)

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport

  • Passport-sized photographs

  • Attested degree certificates

5. Portugal

• Visa Name: Portugal Job Seeker Visa

• Stay Duration: 120 days (with a possible 60-day extension)

• Eligibility:

  • Requirements vary; check Portugal’s official Diplomatic Portal

• Required Documents:

  • Visa application form

  • Valid passport

  • Passport photos

  • Criminal record certificate

  • Travel insurance

  • Proof of financial means

6. Spain

• Visa Name: Spain Residence Permit for Job Search or Business Start-Up

• Stay Duration: 12 to 24 months

• Eligibility:

  • Completed higher education in Spain

  • Hold a Level 6 or above qualification (European Qualifications Framework)

  • Financial stability and health insurance

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport

  • Health insurance proof

  • Spanish academic certificates

  • Completed EX01 form

7. Denmark

• Visa Name: Denmark Job Seeking Permit

• Stay Duration: Up to 6 months

• Eligibility:

  • For employees: Recently made redundant (must apply within two days)

  • For students: Recently completed PhD or higher education in Denmark

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport

  • Visa fee payment proof

  • Termination letter (for employees)

  • Biometric information (fingerprints and photo)