Outside the European Union, the EEA and Switzerland, Portuguese and other EU citizens need permission to work; in the UK too, since Brexit. That is why GoNextCountry shows vacancies outside Europe only when they state relocation support or visa sponsorship. Even so, always confirm with the company before going ahead.
United Kingdom
The most common visa for tech is the Skilled Worker visa: it needs an offer from a company licensed to sponsor visas and a salary above a government minimum. Costs include visa fees and a health surcharge.
United States
The best-known tech work visa, the H-1B, has a limited yearly number and is allocated by lottery among the registrations employers submit; there is no guarantee of getting it in the first year. People already working for a multinational may be transferred on another visa type. Official information: USCIS.
Canada
Many employer-specific work permits require the employer to show it could not find a local candidate. There are also permanent residence programmes for skilled workers. Official information: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Australia
There are employer-sponsored work visas and visas for occupations in shortage. Official information: Department of Home Affairs.
Questions to ask the company
- Has the company sponsored visas for this role before? Who pays the fees and the lawyer?
- How long does the process take, and what happens if the visa is refused?
- Is the visa tied to this employer? What happens if you leave?
- Can your family come with you and work?