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)