We all have had that moment when we are just scrolling through Instagram and come
across a reel where a guy is talking about his experience in a foreign land and how his life has gotten all sorted.
On a random day, while staring at the ceiling, we think of working abroad, and before doing that, we do a bit of research on our end. Searching on Google only overwhelms us with numerous tabs and PDF forms, along with some company recommendations that could lead us to our dream country, but it would cost us a fortune.
So let us help you out and make it easy for you to understand the whole “work visa” process, which is pretty simple.
STEP 1: What Visa Do You Actually Need?
The first and foremost step is to figure out the destination. The rules, timeline and visa types vary from country to country. They have their own quirks, some cute and others not so much. Like:
- UK: Skilled Worker Visa
- USA: H1B (skilled workers), L1 (intra-company transfers), O1 (extraordinary talent)
- Canada: Work Permit via LMIA or PR Pathways
- Germany: Work Visa or EU Blue Card
- Australia: Skilled Visa
Focus on aligning your skillset or job role with the visa category. Initially you’ll be overwhelmed by this, so check out the official government websites for a better idea rather than asking your friends.
STEP 2: Getting a Job Offer
Country officials would want to know from where exactly you’ll earn money to afford a livelihood there, for which they need proof.
You’ll require:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Portfolio (if applicable)
- Recommendation Letter
Note: High-demand industries like IT, healthcare, and engineering open doors faster and will make the process comparatively easier.
STEP 3: Gathering All The Documents
Now comes the boring part, but it is equally important. It’s necessary for them to know if you’re skilled, healthy and are not running away from the police.
Documents required are:
- Passport (Latest)
- 2 Passport-Size Photos
- Job Offer or Contract
- Proof of Qualification
- Bank Statements
- Last three years ITRs
- Police Verification
- Medical Reports
- Accommodation Address
STEP 4: Applying for the Visa
You can apply at a local embassy or book an appointment for it online. You’ll have to visit the place and submit all the documents and give your biometrics to get the visa processed.
Now just sit and wait, as processing time varies wildly from weeks to months; it could be anything. To simplify this entire process even further you can opt for CheckIn HR.
STEP 5: Interview
Some countries might call you in for a short interview, asking some basic questions. They do this to double-check if you are not lying in your documents and also to see if you can communicate well in English. Stay honest and confident. Now just wait for the visa results!!! Don’t worry; you are going to get it. Just make sure all the documents are right and are able to support you well.
Some tips to keep in mind:
- Start the visa process early
- Keep backups of all the documents
- Join expat communities on Reddit
Most importantly, keep your sense of humour intact. You’ll need it more than your passport sometimes.
