Skilled professionals seeking opportunities abroad may find that some lesser-known work visas provide quicker processing, fewer bureaucratic obstacles, and family-friendly policies.
While popular programs such as the U.S. H-1B and Canada’s Express Entry receive the most attention, countries like Portugal, Lithuania, Malta, and Mauritius offer more accessible pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and freelancers.
Here are five work visas that simplify relocation for professionals looking to build careers internationally:
Portugal’s D2 Visa – Ideal for Entrepreneurs and Freelancers
Portugal’s D2 visa is designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners looking to relocate to the European Union. This visa allows individuals to establish or expand a business without the need for a significant upfront investment.
Eligible applicants include:
• Entrepreneurs planning to launch a business in Portugal.
• Business owners seeking to open a branch of their company.
• Freelancers and independent professionals with contracts or work proposals.
This visa provides an affordable entry into the European market without the high capital requirements of traditional business visas.
Lithuania’s National Long-Term Work Visa
Lithuania offers a national visa (D) for third-country nationals intending to stay for over 90 days or take up employment. Family members of EU citizens may also apply.
Applicants must first obtain a temporary residence permit before submitting their visa application. The process typically takes up to 10 working days, making it one of the quicker options available.
Malta’s Key Employee Initiative – A Fast-Track for Skilled Workers
Malta’s Key Employee Initiative (KEI) provides an expedited visa process for highly skilled professionals in managerial or technical roles.
Requirements include:
• A minimum annual salary of €30,000.
• Relevant qualifications or work experience.
• Employer verification of the applicant’s skills and expertise.
This program is also open to startup innovators endorsed by Malta Enterprise, making it an attractive option for professionals and entrepreneurs.
Czech Republic’s Employee Card – A Path to Long-Term EU Residence
The Czech Republic offers an Employee Card, a long-term residence permit allowing third-country nationals to live and work in the country for over three months.
This visa is available to applicants across various industries, regardless of education level, providing flexibility for professionals seeking employment in the European Union.
Mauritius Premium Visa – Work and Live in a Tax-Friendly Environment
Mauritius provides a Premium Visa for individuals who want to work remotely, retire, or conduct business in a relaxed, tax-friendly setting.
Key benefits include:
• A one-year validity, renewable.
• The ability to bring family members, with children allowed to study in Mauritius.
• High-quality internet infrastructure, making it ideal for remote work.
This visa is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a work-life balance in a stable and scenic location.
These alternative work visa programs offer streamlined processes and fewer barriers, making them attractive for skilled workers and entrepreneurs seeking new opportunities abroad.
