What is a General Employment Visa?
A General Employment Visa is a type of work visa that allows foreign nationals to live and work in a country for a specified period of time. This visa is typically granted to individuals who have secured a job offer from a local employer in the host country. The purpose of the General Employment Visa is to fill labor shortages in specific industries and to bring skilled workers into the country to contribute to the economy.
Why Do You Need a General Employment Visa?
A General Employment Visa is necessary for:
Working Legally in a Foreign Country: It ensures that the foreign national is authorized to work for a specific employer in the host country.
Filling Labor Gaps: Many countries issue General Employment Visas to address skill shortages in various sectors, such as construction, healthcare, hospitality, and more.
Work and Live Abroad: This visa gives professionals an opportunity to live and work abroad, gaining international experience and earning a salary in the host country.
Eligibility Criteria for a General Employment Visa
The eligibility requirements for a General Employment Visa may vary depending on the country, but some common requirements include:


General Employment Visa Fees?
Application Processing Fees: Some countries charge an additional processing fee, which may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality or the urgency of the application.
General Employment Visa Denials
Insufficient Documentation: Missing or incomplete documents can result in a rejection.
Ineligibility: If the applicant does not meet the job requirements, qualification standards, or salary thresholds.
Health or Security Concerns: Failing medical exams or having a criminal record may result in a visa refusal.
Failure to Prove Financial Stability: Applicants must show they have enough funds to support themselves during their stay if not covered by the employer.
Can my family join me on a General Employment Visa?
Can I switch jobs while on a General Employment Visa?
Can I apply for permanent residency after holding a General Employment Visa?
How long does it take to get a General Employment Visa?
How long does it take to get a General Employment Visa?
Types of General Employment Visas

Temporary Employment Visa:
Duration: Generally valid for 6 months to 2 years, depending on the country and job type.
Key Features: It may or may not be extendable, and it typically does not lead directly to permanent residency.
Skilled Worker Employment Visa:
Duration: Can range from short-term to long-term, with options to extend or transition to permanent residency.
Key Features: This visa is often tied to specific skill sets that are in demand in the host country.
Permanent Employment Visa:
Duration: The visa is typically valid for a long-term period, often 2-5 years or more, with the possibility of renewal.
Key Features: The applicant may be allowed to bring their family members to live with them.
Duration of Stay
Permanent Employment Visa: Typically issued for 2-5 years, with opportunities for permanent residency or citizenship after meeting the required conditions (e.g., 3-5 years of employment).
Intra-Company Transfer Visa:
Duration: The visa is usually temporary and is issued for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years.
Key Features: Allows employees to continue their role in a different country under the same employer.
Important Notes
Overstaying Your Visa: Overstaying your visa can result in penalties, deportation, or difficulties in obtaining future visas.
Changing Employment: If you change employers while holding a General Employment Visa, you may need to apply for a new visa or update your existing one.