Moving to Europe for work usually involves three separate permissions. They are often confused, and the confusion costs people money: a permit for one thing is not permission for another.
Work permit
Permission to work for a specific employer, in a specific role. In most countries the employer applies for it in the destination country, before you travel. Its validity — 1.5 or 3 years, for example — is the period you may work for that employer, not the length of your visa.
Entry visa
Permission to enter the country, issued by its consulate or visa centre in your country of residence. For work this is usually a national type D visa. You apply in person, give biometrics and show the employer's documents. A national visa is typically issued for up to one year.
Residence permit
Permission to stay longer, issued inside the country after arrival. Some countries combine work and residence in one document — the EU calls it a single permit — and you collect a residence card after registering your address.
What this means for you
- A work permit does not let you travel; you still need the visa
- The visa decision is made by the consulate, not by the employer or by any agency
- Keep copies of every document and check the validity dates of each one
Country-specific rules are in our visa rules section.