Work permits in EU

Work Permits in the UK, Norway, Greece, Poland, and Lithuania: What You Need to Know

Securing a work permit in Europe varies significantly depending on the country. Each has its own rules and processes for non-EU nationals, and understanding the nuances of each system is crucial for a successful application. Below, we explore the work permit requirements in the UK, Norway, Greece, Poland, and Lithuania, highlighting their differences and offering insights into the most important aspects of each process.

United Kingdom: Post-Brexit Immigration System

After Brexit, the UK implemented a points-based immigration system for non-UK citizens, including EU nationals. The most common route is the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires a job offer from a UK-based employer with a valid sponsor license.

Eligibility: A job offer in a skilled position is required. Applicants need to meet specific criteria such as minimum salary thresholds and English language proficiency.
Processing Time: Typically 3-8 weeks.
Permit Duration: 5 years, with the possibility of applying for indefinite leave to remain (permanent residency).
Challenges: Navigating the points-based system can be complex, especially for lower-skilled roles, as the focus is on attracting skilled workers.
Advantages: The UK offers a clear path to permanent residency for those who meet the criteria, and there are numerous visa categories to suit different professional needs (e.g., Global Talent Visa for highly skilled professionals).

Norway: High Standards, High Reward

Norway, although not part of the EU, follows similar work permit regulations as the European Economic Area (EEA). It offers various permits, including those for skilled workers, seasonal workers, and researchers. Skilled workers are in high demand, especially in sectors like oil and gas, IT, and healthcare.

Eligibility: Requires a job offer and the position must be relevant to your qualifications. For the skilled worker visa, applicants must have completed higher education or possess special qualifications.
Processing Time: 1-3 months.
Permit Duration: 1-3 years, with renewal options and a pathway to permanent residency.
Challenges: High standards for qualifications, and some roles require proficiency in Norwegian.
Advantages: Norway’s high quality of life, strong economy, and excellent healthcare and welfare systems make it a highly desirable place to work. It also offers favorable work-life balance policies.

Greece: Bureaucratic but Accessible

Greece has a traditional, bureaucratic approach to work permits. The country has a standard process that involves securing a job offer and receiving approval from the Greek authorities. While the process can be slow, the country is working to modernize and attract more international professionals.

Eligibility: A job offer is required, and employers must prove that no local or EU worker is available for the position. Some exemptions exist for highly skilled roles.
Processing Time: 2-4 months.
Permit Duration: 1 year, with the possibility of renewal.
Challenges: The process can be slow and cumbersome, with significant paperwork required, especially for non-EU nationals.
Advantages: Once a work permit is granted, residency is often easier to secure, and Greece offers an affordable cost of living compared to many other European countries.

Poland: Gateway to the EU

Poland has become one of the more popular destinations in Europe for foreign workers due to its rapid economic growth and increasing demand for labor. The country offers relatively straightforward work permits, especially in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and construction.

Eligibility: A job offer is required, and the employer must obtain a work permit on behalf of the employee. Certain nationalities and highly skilled workers can bypass some of the more complex paperwork.
Processing Time: 1-3 months.
Permit Duration: 1-3 years, with easy renewal options.
Challenges: While Poland’s work permit process is straightforward, finding an employer willing to sponsor non-EU workers can be challenging in some sectors.
Advantages: Poland offers a relatively fast and clear path to obtaining a work permit, especially in industries with labor shortages. The cost of living is low compared to Western Europe, and the country provides a vibrant economy with plenty of opportunities.

Lithuania: Tech-Friendly and Growing

Lithuania is positioning itself as a tech and innovation hub in Europe, and its work permit policies reflect this ambition. The country has simplified its immigration process for foreign professionals, particularly in IT, fintech, and other tech sectors.

Eligibility: A job offer is required. The country offers the EU Blue Card for highly skilled professionals, which simplifies the application process for those with higher qualifications.
Processing Time: 1-2 months.
Permit Duration: 1-2 years, renewable.
Challenges: Lithuania’s work permit process is still evolving, and while it is tech-friendly, the process can still be bureaucratic for some industries.
Advantages: Lithuania’s growing tech sector and increasing demand for foreign professionals make it an attractive destination. The cost of living is low, and the government is actively encouraging foreign investment and talent in specific industries.

Key Points of Comparison

Processing Time and Permit Duration

UK: 3-8 weeks, up to 5 years.
Norway: 1-3 months, up to 3 years.
Greece: 2-4 months, up to 1 year.
Poland: 1-3 months, 1-3 years.
Lithuania: 1-2 months, up to 2 years.

Eligibility and Demand

Lithuania: Tech and fintech sectors are booming; welcoming skilled workers with simplified permits for high-demand roles.

Migrants help fill labour shortages

UK: Points-based system; strong focus on skilled labor, especially in healthcare, IT, and finance.

Norway: High demand for professionals in oil, gas, IT, and healthcare; requires high qualifications.

Greece: Slower, bureaucratic process, but accessible to workers in hospitality, agriculture, and construction.

Poland: Strong demand for workers in IT, construction, and manufacturing; relatively simple permit process.

An analysis of the employment of non-EU nationals within the European Union reveals several important aspects related to integration and working conditions.

Employment statistics

In 2022, 9.93 million non-EU nationals worked in the EU, representing 5.1% of the total labour force. The employment rate among EU citizens is 77 per cent, compared to only 62 per cent among non-EU citizens. This difference can be attributed to structural barriers, discrimination and the presence of an informal labour market.

Informal market

The informal market in the EU is not limited to the agricultural sector; it is also prevalent in manufacturing, textiles, delivery services, and restaurants and hotels. This distribution indicates a wide range of industries where migrants often occupy low-paid and less prestigious positions.

Overrepresentation in sectors

Non-EU migrants are over-represented in certain sectors of the economy:

Hotels and restaurants: 11.3 per cent of employees are non-EU nationals, well above the EU average (4.2 per cent).
Construction: 9.1 per cent against 6.6 per cent for the EU as a whole.
Administrative and support services: 7.6 per cent versus 3.9 per cent.
Homework: 5.9 per cent versus 0.7 per cent.

The role of immigrants in critical services

Immigrants play a key role in maintaining critical services, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite discussions focusing on attracting highly skilled labour, the reality shows that the EU is also in dire need of middle-skilled workers, especially in the health and personal care sector.

Political initiatives

The EU recognises the need to adapt its immigration policies to attract and regularise foreign workers, including in critical areas such as health and care. This is aimed at meeting current and future labour market needs and improving the conditions for the integration of migrants into the EU economy and society.

Given this evidence, the European Union faces the challenge of creating a more inclusive and fair working environment, which requires coordination at all levels of governance as well as joint efforts on the part of Member States.

Key trends migration in the EU

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on migration and mobility in the European region, affecting both legal and illegal migration flows. Movement restrictions imposed to control the spread of the virus have led to significant changes in migration processes and the impact of migrants on European societies.

Restrictions on displacement and their consequences

Border closures: In mid-June 2020, 6 per cent of airports, 25 per cent of land and 9 per cent of sea border crossings in the European Economic Area (EEA) were closed, significantly reducing opportunities for international migration.
Decline in irregular migration: According to Frontex, illegal border crossings fell 85 per cent in April 2020 compared to the previous month, reaching a historic low, driven by strict restrictive measures.

Impact on asylum claims

The first quarter of 2020 showed a stable number of asylum applications compared to the same period in 2019, but since April 2020 the number of applications has fallen sharply. This is due to the suspension of registration of new applications and other emergency measures introduced by EU countries.

Impact on employment and integration of migrants

Administrative delays: Closures and social distancing measures have hindered residence and work permit processes, as well as participation in integration programmes and language training.
The role of migrants in critical sectors: The study found that 13 per cent of key workers in Europe are immigrants, with the share of non-EU key workers in some countries exceeding the share of mobile workers in the EU.

Positive initiatives

Some European countries have implemented good practices to support migrants in various aspects of integration. This includes efforts to ensure migrants’ access to health, education and social services in the context of a pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic clearly demonstrates the importance of migrants for the European economy and society, especially in critical sectors. At the same time, it highlights the need for more flexible and inclusive approaches to migration policies and migrant integration to ensure their sustainable inclusion in the face of future crises.

General migration trends in the EU

The current migration picture in Europe and globally stands out for its diversity and complexity, which requires a comprehensive approach to the management of migration flows. Let us take a closer look at the key aspects of this topic:

Diversity of migrants’ origins

Migration is becoming increasingly globalised and diverse. Migrants come from different regions, making migration flows less predictable and requiring adaptation of policies and approaches to integration.

Intra-continental migration

Most migration takes place within the same continent. In Europe, it often involves movement from low-income countries to higher-income countries in search of work and better living conditions.

Increase in the number of refugees

The number of refugees in the world is increasing, many of whom are seeking asylum in neighbouring countries or in Europe, especially since the start of the “migration crisis” in 2015. The EU hosts many refugees and asylum seekers, requiring Member States to coordinate efforts to accommodate and integrate them.

Return of migrants

Every year, more than 160,000 migrants return to their countries of origin from the EU, most of them voluntarily. IOM provides return assistance, with a significant proportion of such programmes being implemented in Germany.

Competition for talent

In the context of globalisation and demographic change, Europe is actively working to attract highly skilled migrants, which includes creating favourable conditions for their reception and integration.

The political and social significance of migration

In Europe, migration is becoming an increasingly pressing social and political issue that requires attention at both national and European levels. This is related to the need to ensure harmonious integration of migrants, as well as to the management of public attitudes and political consequences of migration processes.

In general, migration management requires a comprehensive approach that includes efforts to integrate, educate, socially support and create opportunities for all. This is the only way to ensure sustainable development and social harmony in a globalising world.

Past and present migration trends in the EU

The history of migration in Europe reflects complex and changing trends that have been shaped by historical, economic and political factors. Examining these trends helps to understand the current state of migration policy and the challenges ahead.

The historical context of migration in Europe

1950s to 1970s:

Intra-regional migration: The consequences of World War II contributed to the movement of refugees and displaced persons.
Labour migration: Workers from Southern Europe and Ireland migrated to the more developed industrial centres of Western and Central Europe.
Decolonisation: Reverse migration and immigration from former colonies, especially from North and Central Africa, South and South-East Asia.

1970s to 1990s:

Completion of foreign worker programmes: Led to family reunification and regularisation of migrants, especially from North Africa and Turkey.
Demand for services: Immigration of low-skilled workers from North Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe has increased.
Political asylum: Asylum seekers from Eastern Europe sought asylum in Western Europe.

1990s to 2010s:

EU free movement regime: Facilitated the mobility of workers from Central and Eastern Europe to more developed EU countries.
New waves of immigration: Reflects migration flows from North and Central Africa, Latin America and Asia.
Geopolitical instability: Increased number of asylum seekers from conflict-ridden regions.

Contemporary Challenges and Responses

Migration remains an important topic on the EU policy agenda, requiring accurate and timely statistics to develop effective policies. The European Commission, Eurostat and other EU agencies play a key role in the collection, verification and dissemination of data, which helps EU countries develop measures to manage migration flows and integrate migrants.

Over the decades, Europe has transformed from a continent of emigration to a region of attraction for immigrants. This change requires flexible and humane approaches to migration policies to ensure social harmony and economic prosperity in the face of globalisation and demographic change.

Immigration to Europe

The right to free movement and residence within the European Union (EU) for EU citizens has significantly changed the concept of migration within the bloc. This right allows EU citizens to move, work and live freely in any of the EU member states without having to be defined as immigrants. This policy promotes the strengthening of the internal market and social integration through cultural and economic exchange between countries.

Differences in immigration from non-EU countries

The European Commission’s definition of immigration emphasises that immigration to the EU covers persons from non-EU countries who establish their permanent residence in the EU territory for a period of more than twelve months. Between 2010 and 2013, around 1.4 million such nationals immigrated to the EU each year, reflecting a steady flow of migration to the region.

Statistics on the foreign-born population

The proportion of the population born abroad or with at least one foreign-born parent in different countries reflects multiculturalism and migration rates. For example:

Switzerland stands out with 47 per cent of such a population, indicating a high level of migration activity and multiculturalism.
Sweden and Austria also have significant percentages of foreign-born or single-parent migrant populations, emphasising their openness and social integration.
The data for the US, Belgium, Germany and the UK also highlight their role as significant centres of immigration.

Policies and infrastructure within the EU aimed at improving integration and supporting migrants, including those from outside the EU, play a key role in shaping a dynamic and integrated society. Given the increase in global migration and the political significance of these issues, the EU and its Member States continue to adapt their strategies to manage migration flows and foster social harmony. This requires not only managing migration flows, but also providing opportunities for the successful integration of migrants into the economic and cultural life of their host societies.

EU simplifies visa rules for foreign workers

The recent vote in the European Parliament in Strasbourg confirming a preliminary agreement to simplify administrative procedures for the issuance of work and residence visas reflects the European Union’s desire to improve conditions for legal migration. This decision is intended to meet the growing demand for labour in the EU and contribute to economic growth by attracting skilled workers from third countries.

Context of the solution

This agreement was reached in December 2023 and is awaiting formal approval from EU ministers. The main objective is to make Europe more attractive for migrants who can contribute to the economy, especially in sectors with labour shortages. The simplification of visa procedures should help reduce bureaucratic barriers and facilitate the integration of migrants into European societies.

Contrast with the EU migration pact

In parallel to these efforts to facilitate legal migration, the EU is also preparing a migration pact that aims to more tightly regulate the arrival of migrants seeking international protection. This shows a double standard in the EU’s approach to migration: on the one hand, easier access for skilled workers, on the other hand, tighter controls on the arrival of refugees and asylum seekers.

Impact on the political and economic situation in the EU

Simplifying the process of obtaining work and residence visas can contribute to economic growth by providing companies with access to necessary talent and skills that are in short supply in the domestic market. However, such measures may also generate public discontent and debate about the fairness of migration policies, especially in the context of current economic and social challenges.

Adopting and implementing these measures requires a careful balance between attracting the necessary foreign workers and providing protection and support for those seeking asylum and protection. The success of these initiatives will depend on their public perception and the EU’s ability to effectively integrate newcomers into the region’s economy and culture.

New visa rules for third-country nationals

The update of the Single Permit Directive in the European Union represents a significant step towards simplifying and improving the legal migration process for third-country nationals. These changes aim to address current challenges related to migration flows and the integration of foreign workers into the EU economy and society. Here are the key aspects of this legislative update:

Main changes in the Directive

Reduced processing time: The time taken to decide on permit applications is reduced from four months to three months, with the possibility of a 30-day extension in complex cases.
Possibility to change status without leaving the country: Third-country nationals with a valid residence permit can now change their status or renew their permits without leaving the EU.
Flexibility to change employer or occupation: Workers can notify the authorities of a change of employer, occupation or sector, with an opportunity to object within 45 days.
Protection in case of exploitation: Introduces the possibility of changing employers within the first six months if there are violations of working conditions.
Support for unemployed migrants: Unemployed persons are given up to three months (or up to six months if the permit was issued for more than two years) to find a new job before the work permit is cancelled.

Objectives and impact of change

These changes aim to create a more flexible and fair system for migrants, which will improve their opportunities to integrate and participate in the economic life of the EU. They are also designed to combat irregular migration and labour exploitation by strengthening migrants’ rights and protecting them from abuse.

The revised Single Permit Directive is an important step towards a more open, secure and inclusive migration environment in the European Union. This will not only help meet the EU labour market’s demand for foreign workers, but also ensure that their rights are better protected. EU Member States have two years to implement these changes, which will give them enough time to adapt national systems and procedures to the new requirements.

Labour migration to the EU

The European Union’s initiatives to facilitate access of foreign workers to its labour market reflect a desire to address some of the most pressing economic challenges faced by Member States, including skills shortages and overall labour demand. However, experience has shown that the implementation of such measures can face political and administrative obstacles.

Context of the initiative

Last November, the European Commission proposed a series of voluntary measures to improve the employment of third-country nationals. These measures aim to create more accessible and transparent procedures for obtaining work and residence visas, which should facilitate legal migration and meet the EU labour market’s need for skilled workers.

Problems with the Long-term document

At the same time as the proposals for the Single Permit Directive, the EU was also negotiating a Long-Term Instrument, a legislative file designed to simplify the process of obtaining permanent visas and work permits. However, this proposal faced opposition from EU ministers, which blocked its further progress towards inter-ministerial negotiations. The delay or blocking of such proposals can be due to various reasons, including political differences, bureaucratic barriers, or concerns about the social impact of increased migrant numbers.

These disagreements and delays highlight the complexity of managing migration flows in the EU and the differences of opinion among Member States on migration policy issues. Despite recognising the need to attract foreign workers, the EU faces the challenge of reaching consensus on how best to manage migration and integrate migrants into Member States’ economies and societies.

Ongoing dialogue and negotiations between the various EU institutions and Member States will be key to developing effective, fair and sustainable migration strategies that can meet the economic needs of the region while taking into account the social and political implications.

Conclusion

Work permits in the UK, Norway, Greece, Poland, and Lithuania reflect the diversity of Europe’s labor markets.

The UK, post-Brexit, focuses on skilled professionals through its points-based system.
Norway is competitive but highly rewarding, especially for those in specialized industries.
Greece remains more bureaucratic but accessible for roles in tourism, construction, and agriculture.
Poland is a growing powerhouse, particularly for workers in IT and manufacturing, with an accessible work permit process.
Lithuania is an emerging tech hub, providing fast and straightforward permits for skilled professionals, particularly in the tech industry.

Choosing the right country depends on your skills, the industry you’re working in, and your long-term goals. Whether you’re looking for high wages in Norway, tech opportunities in Lithuania, or fast-growing markets in Poland, understanding each country’s unique process will help you make an informed decision.