Visa & Work Permit Routes
All placements on WorkersFromAsia are structured around official, legally-compliant visa pathways. We support six routes across Germany, Netherlands, Romania, Poland, and the wider EU.
Germany Skilled Worker Visa
Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz (FEG) + EU Opportunity Card
Germany's Skilled Immigration Act (FEG) opened one of the most direct pathways in Europe for non-EU skilled tradespeople. Combined with the 2024 EU Opportunity Card, qualified applicants can be on-site within 3–6 months.
Netherlands Work Permit (GVVA)
Highly Skilled Migrant & Combined GVVA Permit
The Netherlands uses a combined residence and work permit (GVVA) for non-EU workers. The highly skilled migrant route is fast-tracked for qualified trades where the Dutch labour market has a certified shortage.
Romania Non-EU Work Permit
Labour quota & construction-sector fast track
Romania operates an annual labour quota for non-EU workers, with significant allocations for the construction sector. Fast-track processing is available for employers in regions with certified labour shortages.
Poland Work Permit
Type A & seasonal work permit pathways
Poland offers Type A work permits for full-time non-EU employment. Processing at voivodeship offices has been significantly streamlined for construction, manufacturing, and logistics sectors.
Posted Workers Directive
EU Directive 96/71/EC — cross-border project deployment
Under the Posted Workers Directive, agencies established in an EU member state can second workers to other EU countries for fixed-term projects without a separate national work permit. Our partner agencies in Romania and Poland use this route to service projects in Western Europe.
EU Opportunity Card
Pan-EU points-based job-search visa (2024)
The EU Opportunity Card, launched in 2024, allows skilled non-EU nationals to enter the EU for up to 12 months to seek employment. Based on a points system covering qualifications, work experience, language skills, and age — it is the most flexible new route for Asian skilled workers.
Route Comparison at a Glance
| Route | Country | Timeline | Qualification Required | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU Opportunity Card | Any EU | 1–3 mo | Points-based (vocational OK) | A1 German recommended |
| Germany FEG | Germany | 3–6 mo | Recognised vocational cert | A2 German required |
| Netherlands GVVA | Netherlands | 4–8 mo | Shortage occupation list | None (English OK) |
| Romania Work Permit | Romania | 2–5 mo | Employer invitation | None |
| Poland Work Permit | Poland | 2–4 mo | Employer contract | None |
| Posted Workers | Any EU | 1–3 mo | Employed by EU agency | None |
Ready to Start a Placement?
Post a job for free. Our agency partners handle the visa route for each candidate based on your destination country.