Work Visa Types Explained
Everything you need to know about work visas for remote workers and international tech talent.
The H-1B is the primary work visa for specialty occupations in the US. It requires a bachelor's degree and is subject to an annual lottery cap of 85,000 (65,000 regular cap + 20,000 for US master's holders).
Requirements
- ✓Bachelor's degree or equivalent in specialty occupation
- ✓Job offer from US employer willing to sponsor
- ✓Employer must file LCA with DOL
- ✓Subject to annual lottery (April filing, October start)
Key Details
💡 Tip: File early — the lottery fills up fast. Consider O-1 if you have extraordinary ability.
Process
Employer files LCA → File I-129 → H1B lottery (April) → Approval → Start date October 1
The TN visa is available to Canadian and Mexican citizens under USMCA (formerly NAFTA) for specific professional categories. No lottery, no cap.
Requirements
- ✓Must be Canadian or Mexican citizen
- ✓Job must be in eligible USMCA occupation list
- ✓Bachelor's degree in relevant field
- ✓US job offer from legitimate employer
Key Details
💡 Tip: Canadians can apply directly at the border — no advance filing needed. Much easier than H1B.
Process
Get job offer → Gather documents → Apply at border (Canadian) or consulate (Mexican)
The UK Skilled Worker visa replaced Tier 2 (General) after Brexit. Employers must be licensed sponsors. No annual cap on numbers.
Requirements
- ✓Job offer from UK-licensed sponsor
- ✓Role must be eligible (RQF Level 3+)
- ✓Salary meets threshold: £26,200 or going rate (whichever higher)
- ✓English language requirement (B1 level)
Key Details
💡 Tip: Tech roles often qualify for shortage occupation discounts. London premium applies.
Process
Employer gets CoS → Apply online (up to 3 months before) → Biometrics → Decision (3 weeks)
The EU Blue Card allows highly qualified non-EU nationals to work in most EU member states. Germany has one of the most accessible Blue Card programs.
Requirements
- ✓Recognized university degree (or equivalent)
- ✓Job offer with salary above €56,400/year (STEM/shortage: €43,992)
- ✓Degree must be recognized in Germany
- ✓Health insurance
Key Details
💡 Tip: Degree recognition is key — use anabin database. Berlin is very tech-friendly and English-friendly.
Process
Get job offer → Degree recognition → Visa application → Entry → Register → Blue Card
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa subclass 482 allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers for up to 4 years with a path to permanent residence.
Requirements
- ✓Employer must be approved sponsor
- ✓Occupation on eligible list (MLTSSL or STSOL)
- ✓Meet TSMIT salary threshold (~AUD $70,000)
- ✓2 years relevant work experience
Key Details
💡 Tip: Medium-term stream leads to ENS 186 permanent residency. Regional positions often easier.
Process
Employer approved → Nominate position → Apply for visa → Grant
The Dutch Knowledge Migrant permit (Highly Skilled Migrant) allows recognized IND sponsors to fast-track work permits for skilled international employees.
Requirements
- ✓Employer must be recognized IND sponsor
- ✓Salary above €5,008/month (2025, under 30: €3,672)
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓No degree requirement (salary-based)
Key Details
💡 Tip: Netherlands is very international — many companies operate in English. Amsterdam tech scene is strong.
Process
Employer applies to IND → 2-week decision → MVV (if required) → Entry → Residence card
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Visa rules change frequently. This guide is for informational purposes only and is NOT legal advice. Requirements, salary thresholds, and processes may have changed. Always verify with an immigration attorney or the official government immigration website before making decisions.