Work — Find the Right Route for Your Job and Employer
Some work visas require a job offer before you apply. Others are designed for graduates, company transfers, high-skill professionals, seasonal workers, or people who qualify for a job-search route. The key question is not whether a country has a work visa — it is which permit fits your job, employer, nationality, qualifications, experience, and longer-term plan.
General information only. Requirements change. The relevant authority makes the final decision.
Employer-sponsored vs. open work permits
Most countries require a job offer before issuing a work permit. Open work permits — where you can work for any employer — are issued only in specific situations such as post-graduation, spousal permits, or working holiday programs.
Post-study work rights
Canada, Australia, the UK, New Zealand, Ireland, and the US all have post-study work routes. Eligibility depends on the institution, program level, and current rules. These routes are often a key step toward longer-term residence.
Corporate transfers and ICTs
Intra-company transfers allow companies to move qualifying employees between international offices. The corporate relationship, employee seniority, and prior employment history are central to eligibility.
Choose Your Destination
Canada
LMIA, LMIA-exempt, open work permits, and youth mobility options.
Australia
Skills in Demand, employer nomination, regional sponsorship, training, and graduate work.
- Skills in Demand — 482
- Employer Nomination — 186
- Employer Sponsored Regional — 494
- Temporary Graduate — 485
United Kingdom
Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, Global Talent, Graduate, and GBM routes.
Ireland
Nine employment permit categories from Critical Skills to Reactivation.
New Zealand
AEWV, post-study, partner permits, and working holiday.
United States
H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, E visas, and seasonal work classifications.
Europe
Germany, Austria, Netherlands work permits and EU Blue Card routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a job offer to get a work visa?
In most countries, yes. Employer-sponsored permits require a valid job offer from a qualifying employer before you apply. A few routes — like post-graduation work, working holidays, and job-search visas — do not require a prior job offer.
Can I change employers on a work visa?
This depends on the country and permit type. Some permits are employer-specific. Others are open or can be updated. Always check the conditions of your specific permit before changing jobs.
Not sure which route applies?
Start with a free eligibility assessment. Share your goal and profile and we will identify the routes that deserve a closer look.