How to get Schengen work visa and how to get one?
Planning to work in Europe? Here’s what you need to know about Schengen work visas:
Understanding the Schengen Work Visa
Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a "Schengen work visa." For long-term employment in Schengen countries, you need a National D-type Work Visa issued by the specific country where you plan to work. This visa does not grant you the right to work in other Schengen states.
However, if you need to travel to the Schengen Area for work purposes for fewer than 90 days, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen work visa. This visa allows you to conduct business activities during your trip. You must provide evidence that work is the purpose of your visit and leave the host country before the visa expires.
For obligations exceeding 90 days, a long-stay work visa type D is required. This visa may need validation within three months of your arrival.
Types of Schengen Visas
- Short-stay Schengen Visa: For business trips lasting less than 90 days.
- Long-stay National Visa (Type D): For long-term employment in a specific Schengen country.
Obtaining a European Work Permit
To get a European work visa, check the specific employment visas offered by the country where you wish to work. Ensure you meet the criteria, gather the required documents, and schedule a visa interview.
Required Documents for a Short-Stay Schengen Work Visa
- Invitation Letter: A letter from the inviting organization specifying your business relationship and activities.
- Itinerary: A detailed itinerary of your business activities.
- Employee Documentation: If employed, include a letter from your employer confirming your job position, dates of employment, salary, and the purpose of your business trip. A no objection letter from your employer may also be beneficial.
- Self-Employed Documentation: For self-employed individuals, include a copy of your business license, a company bank statement for the last six months, and an income tax return.
From the end of 2023, citizens from visa-free countries will need to apply via the ETIAS system for short business trips. For longer stays, a national work visa is required.
Difficulty of Obtaining a Work Visa
Citizens from non-EU countries, including the USA, Australia, Canada, China, Japan, and India, must apply for a work visa to work in Europe. Each Schengen country has its own immigration policies, which means the ease of obtaining a visa varies. Your chances of acceptance depend on the specific immigration policies of the country and whether you meet its labor needs. Your prospective employer may also need to obtain a work permit from the national authorities.
Standard Documents for a European Work Visa
- Completed application form (two copies)
- Two identical photos
- Valid passport
- Travel reservations
- Travel and medical insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Employment contract
- Academic or professional qualifications
- Proof of language proficiency (if required by the host country)
Application Timeline
Apply for a European work visa at least two months before your trip. The processing time can take up to six weeks, and sometimes up to 12 weeks, so early application is recommended.
Visa Validity
Most Schengen Area work visas are valid for one year, with the possibility of extension. To extend your visa, you must provide the required documents and a valid reason for your extended stay to the authorities in your host country.
Schengen Work Visa Costs
The cost of a Schengen work visa varies by country:
- France: €99
- Germany: €75
- Spain: $190 for USA citizens, $114 for Canada nationals, and $67 for other nationalities
These costs may change over time due to inflation and policy changes.
How AXA Can Assist
Applying for a work visa promptly is crucial. AXA can help by providing travel and medical insurance that meets EU work visa requirements, starting at €22 per week. You will receive an insurance certificate immediately, allowing you to proceed with your visa application without delay.
Embarking on your European work adventure requires careful planning and preparation. Understanding the visa process and meeting all requirements will help ensure a smooth transition to your new role in the Schengen Area.
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