Singapore tops global index for ease of work visas for foreigners
A recent study has identified the countries where it is easiest for foreigners to find work, with Singapore emerging as the top-ranked nation due to its efficient visa processes and favourable employment conditions.
The study, conducted by Eskimoz, assessed nations using a weighted index that included variables such as immigration laws, visa costs, the availability and requirements of work visas, minimum salary stipulations, visa processing times, political stability, unemployment rates, and language barriers. Scores were assigned on a scale of 1 to 10 across these factors to create a comprehensive ranking of how accessible and attractive countries are for international workers.
Singapore at the top
Singapore received the highest index score of 92. It offers a structured points-based immigration system for skilled workers, visa processing times averaging just half a month, low unemployment at 2.1%, and a relatively modest visa fee of USD $105. The study attributed Singapore's strong position to these criteria and its stable political environment.
Singapore's highly developed economy and its leadership in the rankings is an example of how friendlier immigration laws can significantly enhance a country's appeal to the international workforce. Open economies benefit from diverse talents that fuel local growth and Singapore is an excellent example of that. Our findings also point to a common challenge in countries like Luxembourg and Australia and the UK where a higher salary threshold is making it harder to find a job. High salary requirements can deter younger skilled immigrants who could contribute to economic growth in the longer run.
Netherlands and Europe's prospects
Securing second position was the Netherlands, which achieved an index score of 81. The country is notable for a broad range of visa options for skilled professionals, high political stability, and an unemployment rate of 3.6%. According to the study, the lack of language barriers further assists foreign workers in accessing employment opportunities. The visa fee in the Netherlands is USD $377, with a processing period of approximately 1.5 months and a minimum monthly salary requirement of USD $5,746.
The Czech Republic ranked third with a score of 76, aided by opportunities for non-EU skilled workers through the EU Blue Card and employee cards. Visa costs average USD $216, processing can take one to two months, and while there is a need for Czech language proficiency, unemployment stands at 3.9% and political stability is high.
Middle rankings and emerging trends
New Zealand and South Korea shared fourth place, with both achieving index scores of 72. New Zealand features relatively high visa fees of USD $441 and political stability, while South Korea is noted for low visa costs, starting at just USD $70, and a low unemployment rate of 2.8%.
France was placed fifth, indexed at 69, due to its straightforward work permit procedures, reasonable visa fees (USD $120), but a relatively high unemployment figure of 7.5% and a requirement for French language skills.
The United Kingdom occupied sixth place with a score of 68. The UK's visa system requires applicants to have an offer from a licensed sponsor, and recent increases in the minimum salary requirement have, according to the study, made it significantly harder for international applicants to secure sponsored positions. Visa costs in the UK are some of the highest in the list, ranging from USD $902 to USD $2,057, and a minimum monthly salary requirement set at USD $4,049. Unemployment is comparatively low at 4.2%, and the country is recognised for its political stability.
Rest of the top ten
Iceland and Germany both scored 67. Germany's system prioritises vacancies in shortage occupations and is regarded as efficient due to its political stability and a 5.9% unemployment rate. In contrast, Iceland's processing time for visas is longer (up to six months), though language requirements are described as simplified for foreign applicants.
Australia ranked eighth with a score of 65. Applicants face a points-based system that favours highly skilled and English-proficient workers, a steep visa cost at USD $1,925, and processing times of up to 19 months. Political stability and an unemployment rate of 3.8% are positives for migrants considering long-term work in Australia.
Ireland secured ninth place (index score 64), requiring employment permits before work visa applications can be lodged. Fees range between USD $539 to USD $1,078, with application processing taking up to two months. High political stability and generally manageable English language requirements are noted strengths.
Luxembourg's place
Luxembourg completed the top ten with an index score of 63 and the lowest visa cost among the countries listed, at USD $86. Conversely, it also holds the highest minimum salary requirement at USD $7,371 per month, making entry more challenging for many applicants. Prospective foreign workers are required to speak German, French, or Luxembourgish for successful integration. Political and economic stability remain key attractions, despite these barriers.
The study's methodology involved detailed data analysis from public sources, with index scores reflecting a mix of economic, legal, and social indicators deemed by Eskimoz to be relevant for potential migrants. Several countries with high minimum salary requirements were singled out as presenting a barrier for younger or less experienced skilled immigrants, particularly in Luxembourg, Australia, and the UK.
Eskimoz's analysis suggests that policy complexity, salary thresholds, and visa costs significantly influence the migration choices of skilled workers globally.
