Europe has emerged as the top destination for skilled workers in search of employment opportunities. Sweden and Portugal are two of the most in-demand job-seeker visas. It is possible to enter the country without a job offer and search for employment using these visas. However, eligibility, duration, and application processes are significantly different between the Sweden Job Seeker Visa and the Portugal Job Seeker Visa.
1. Purpose and Eligibility
Sweden Job Seeker Visa
Sweden introduced its job seeker visa to attract highly skilled professionals. It allows individuals with a university degree (master’s level or higher) to stay in the country and look for work or start a business. Applicants must have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.
Portugal Job Seeker Visa
Portugal’s job seeker visa is designed for general job seekers, not just highly skilled workers. Unlike Sweden, Portugal does not require applicants to have a master’s degree; however, applicants must prove they have enough funds to sustain themselves.
2. Duration and Extension
Sweden
- The visa is issued for 3 to 9 months.
- It is not extendable.
- If a job is found, the applicant must apply for a work permit before the visa expires.
Portugal
- The visa is issued for 120 days (4 months), extendable by another 60 days.
- If the applicant finds a job, they must apply for a residence permit.
- If they fail to find a job, they must leave the country but can reapply after one year.
3. Financial Requirements
Sweden
Applicants must prove they have at least SEK 13,000 (approximately €1,100) per month for their stay, along with funds for a return ticket.
Portugal
Applicants must show they have at least €2,280 in their bank account (equal to 3 months of Portugal’s minimum wage) and a return ticket.
4. Application Process
Sweden
- Apply online through the Swedish Migration Agency.
- Submit proof of education, financial resources, and health insurance.
- Processing time is around 1 to 3 months.
Portugal
- Apply through the Portuguese consulate or embassy.
- Submit financial proof, health insurance, a return ticket, and a job search plan.
- Processing time can take 2 to 3 months.
5. Job Search Opportunities
Sweden
- Strong demand for IT, engineering, healthcare, and research professionals.
- The job market favors highly skilled workers.
- Swedish language proficiency improves job prospects.
Portugal
- Opportunities exist in hospitality, tourism, IT, and healthcare.
- Speaking Portuguese is an advantage but not always required.
- Salaries tend to be lower compared to Sweden.
6. Conversion to Work Visa
Sweden
If a job is secured, applicants must apply for a work permit before their visa expires.
Portugal
If successful in finding a job, applicants can apply for a residence permit directly.
Conclusion
Sweden and Portugal represent excellent opportunities to job seekers but are suited to different applicant profiles. Sweden offers a job seeker visa that will suit highly qualified professionals, but Portugal’s more flexible visa makes it open for a wider audience of job seekers. The bottom line depends on qualifications, market preferences, and financial resources.
For more details about the Sweden Job Seeker Visa and Portugal Job Seeker Visa, contact Province Immigration via +91 98961 96762 or info@provinceimmigration.com
