Work Permit

A work permit is a formal authorisation issued by a government that allows a foreign individual to be employed in that country. It’s often a requirement for international employees who do not hold citizenship or permanent residency in the destination country.

Depending on the country, a work permit may be issued independently or alongside a work visa. Typically, it outlines specific terms such as job role, employer, and duration of employment.

Not everyone requires a work permit, but many foreign nationals do, especially if they intend to work in a country where they are not a citizen or resident.

You generally need a work permit if:

• You are relocating for a job opportunity abroad
• You're not from a country with a free movement agreement (e.g., EU citizens working in other EU countries might not need one)
• You're not on a short-term business or tourist visa that covers work activities

Employers must ensure that foreign hires possess valid work permits before onboarding, especially for full-time or long-term roles.

Work permits vary by country and by job type. Here are some common categories:

General employment permit

Issued for standard employment where no labour market restrictions apply. Common for roles that are in demand or offer specialised skills.

Intra-company transfer permit

For employees transferring within a multinational company from one country to another.

Seasonal or temporary work permit

Often issued for short-term roles in industries like agriculture, hospitality, or tourism.

Freelance or self-employed work permit

Some countries permit self-employed professionals or freelancers, although these often have stricter requirements.

For employers

Work permits are essential for staying compliant with local employment laws. Hiring someone without the proper documentation can lead to fines, penalties, or even legal action.

For individuals

Without a valid work permit, you may not be legally allowed to work, and doing so could affect future visa or residency applications. It also ensures access to employment benefits and protections.

“Work permits ensure both legal compliance and worker protection across borders.” – Legal and Global Mobility Team, Native Teams

The application process varies by country, but generally includes:

1. Job offer or employment contract

Most work permit applications require a formal offer or contract from an employer.

2. Employer sponsorship

Some countries require the employer to sponsor or support the application by submitting relevant documentation.

3. Submitting an application

Applications are typically submitted to the immigration or labour authority. You may need to provide:

• Passport copy
• Job contract
• Educational/professional credentials
• Proof of no local candidate availability (in some cases)

4. Processing time

Processing times can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the country.

Tip: See how Native Teams can help streamline this process under our compliance and HR solutions.

While often used interchangeably, a work permit and a work visa serve different purposes. Here’s how they compare:

United States

The H-1B visa functions as both a visa and a work permit, issued to skilled workers in specialised fields.

United Kingdom

The Skilled Worker visa allows foreign nationals with a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor to work legally in the UK.

Germany

The EU Blue Card and general work permit options are available to non-EU skilled workers, particularly in the IT and engineering sectors.

France

The Talent Passport is a residence and work permit for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and researchers.

Securing a work permit can come with hurdles:

• Long processing times and paperwork
• Labour market tests to prove local candidates aren’t available
• Language or residency requirements
• Permit tied to one employer, limiting mobility

At Native Teams, we help you navigate global employment compliance by:

• Acting as the official Employer of Record (EOR)
• Sponsoring work permits and visas on your behalf
• Managing documentation and timelines
• Ensuring your employees are legally and compliantly onboarded

Explore our global hiring solutions to streamline work permit processes in over 85 countries.

• A work permit is essential for legal employment in a foreign country.
• There are various types depending on the role, country, and duration.
• Employers and individuals alike must ensure the right permits are secured.
• Native Teams supports businesses with full compliance and EOR services.