However, moving to Europe can be a difficult and challenging task, especially for non-European citizens.
The process of getting an immigration visa varies for different European countries. While some countries provide easy access to their countries, others have very strict immigration rules.
From trying to sort out the paperwork, to finding accommodation, it's easy to get easily overwhelmed. This is why getting help from professionals like Garant Immigration is beneficial. Such experts can help you figure out the visa process while you focus on other aspects of your journey.
However, this article will focus on the general process of applying for a visa if you would like to move to Europe.
Let’s dive right in.
Visa Options to Migrate to Europe
If you're planning to move to Europe, it's important to know the different available visa options.
The requirements for each visa type differ, hence you must be sure of your purpose of moving and choose a visa type accordingly.
Below are the visa options available for you:
Self-Employment Visa
Some countries like Germany, Iceland, and Portugal issue self-employment visas to non-European migrants.
This type of visa is suitable for current and aspiring business owners. It allows you to stay in your country of choice for about two years and can extend your stay for about five years.
You can also apply for a residence permit once you've stayed in the country for up to five years. This type of visa works best for freelancers who want to relocate to a European country.
Work Visa
The most popular visa in Europe is the work visa. However, if you don't have specific skills or experience, it can be very difficult to get it.
A work visa is suitable for you if you have a skill that is relevant to the country you intend to move to. This will give you the opportunity for a long-term stay in that country.
For instance, it may be tricky to get a visa to work in the Czech Republic or Spain, since these countries aren't English-speaking countries. You will have better chance if you’re in tech or an IT professional.
For seasonal jobs in Europe some countries do have special visas and provisions for non-EU citizens to work in certain industries.
Therefore, before you apply for a work visa, you need to consider your skills and the country you intend to go to.
Talent Visa
Talent visas are usually issued to immigrants who have unique talents in digital technology, academics, art, or culture. It's also an easy way to obtain a permanent residency.
If you're moving to France and you are skilled in the technical or cultural field, then you may be eligible for a talent visa. However, you may have to appear physically for an interview to prove your talent.
Student Visa
If you're going to study in Europe, then a student visa is appropriate. While you may be unable to work alongside in some countries, others allow you to work for a certain number of hours per week.
Depending on the country, different laws guide the issuance of permanent residency. Additionally, with a student visa, you can take up volunteer or paid programs that will allow you to get seasonal jobs and employment in the summer.
Visa Application Requirements
As part of the Schengen visa application process, immigrants applying for a visa to Europe must submit certain documents.
These documents include a fully completed and signed visa application form, among others. Although the documents may vary depending on the country you're moving to and the type of visa, below are general visa application requirements you should know:
A Valid Passport
The passport should not be older than ten years. The passport should also be valid for at least three months beyond your proposed date of leaving the Schengen area.
Two Recent Photos
The visa photo requirements state that both photos must be taken not more than three months ago.
Itinerary or Round-trip Reservation
This includes the dates and flight numbers that specify your entry and exit from the Schengen area. To ease the stress, it's advisable to use the help of professional visa consultation services.
Travel Insurance Policy
The travel insurance policy shows that you have valid travel health insurance for the entire Schengen territory. You must also have coverage of at least 30,000 euros in case of a medical emergency like accidents, illnesses, or repatriation in case of death. You can buy the insurance policy online from Europ Assistance.
Proof of Accommodation
The proof of accommodation indicates where you'll live throughout your stay in Schengen. This can either be a hotel or a rental agreement. In case you'll be staying with someone, you'll need a letter of invitation from the host to prove that they actually invited you.
Proof of financial means
Proof of financial means is to show that you have the financial capacity to support yourself while you're in the Schengen area. You can use any or a combination of the following:
Bank account statement: This statement shows your ability to cater for your trip and it must be within three months.
Sponsorship Letter: This is needed in a case where someone else will be sponsoring your trip to Schengen. The sponsor must also include a bank statement not older than three months.
Factors to Consider When Applying for a Visa
Obtaining a visa can be easier in some European countries than in others. Therefore, before you apply for an immigration visa in Europe, below are some of the factors you should consider:
Purpose of Relocating
Before you choose a country, consider why you want to go there. Are you going to study, work, or just have fun? Your purpose of moving to Europe will determine the best country for you. For instance, Germany is one of the best countries to work in Europe.
Tax Options
You don't want to spend all your income on tax, hence it's vital to understand the tax options for a country before you apply for your visa. For instance, taxes in France are not as affordable as in Hungary.
Lifestyle
Irrespective of the quality of lifestyle you want to live, different countries are suitable for you. If you're looking for a low-quality lifestyle, then apply for a visa to Portugal or Turkey. However, if you're looking for a country with a high-quality lifestyle, then go to Sweden.
Plan Your Move to Europe
Europe is one of the best countries to move into. By following the tips above, getting a visa will be both less time-consuming and stress-free. Most times, you can also get your permanent residency which gives you citizenship rights. However, if you get confused at any point, ensure you seek immediate help from experts.
