Navigating the complexities of work visas can be a daunting process, especially when considering the significant differences across various countries. For many professionals, the H-1B visa is often a gateway to fulfilling their career ambitions in the United States. However, understanding the ins and outs of work visas is crucial not only for those interested in the US but also for individuals considering opportunities in other countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia. Each of these nations offers distinct work visa programs designed to attract skilled labor, yet the eligibility requirements and application processes can vary greatly.
This article will dive into the details of the H-1B visa in the United States and provide a comprehensive look at equivalent work visas in the UK, Canada, and Australia. Whether you’re a tech professional, engineer, healthcare worker, or skilled laborer, this guide will offer valuable insights on how to succeed in your visa application, meet eligibility criteria, and avoid common pitfalls.
Understanding the H-1B Visa: A Global Perspective
H-1B Visa in the United States
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. It is especially popular among tech professionals, engineers, scientists, and other highly skilled professionals. To qualify for an H-1B visa, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a specific field related to the job they are being hired for.
One of the key features of the H-1B visa is the employer sponsorship requirement. This means that individuals cannot apply for this visa independently; they must first secure a job offer from a US employer willing to sponsor their application.
In addition to education and job requirements, applicants must also navigate the H-1B cap system, which limits the number of visas issued annually. Every year, there are 85,000 slots available, and because demand far exceeds supply, a lottery system is used to determine who gets the chance to apply.
Similar Work Visas in the UK, Canada, and Australia
While the H-1B visa is a US-specific program, other countries offer similar work visas to attract skilled labor. Let’s take a look at the equivalents in the UK, Canada, and Australia.
United Kingdom: Tier 2 (General) Visa The Tier 2 Visa in the UK is the closest equivalent to the US H-1B visa. It allows skilled workers to come to the UK to fill job positions that cannot be filled by local workers. To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor and meet certain salary thresholds. The Tier 2 Visa is designed to allow workers to live and work in the UK for up to five years, with the option to extend.
Canada: Temporary Work Permit Canada’s Temporary Work Permit is issued to foreign nationals who have received a job offer from a Canadian employer. Unlike the H-1B visa, Canada’s system doesn’t always require an employer to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), though the LMIA is often required to ensure that hiring a foreign worker doesn’t negatively affect the Canadian job market. In Canada, individuals can also apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs, such as Express Entry, after gaining work experience.
Australia: Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa Australia offers the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa, which allows employers to sponsor foreign workers for up to four years in specific skill areas. The TSS visa is divided into two streams: the Short-Term stream, which is valid for two years, and the Medium-Long-Term stream, which can be extended to four years and allows workers to apply for permanent residency after a certain period. Similar to the UK’s Tier 2 Visa, applicants must have a job offer from a sponsoring employer and meet certain criteria for education and work experience.
Eligibility Requirements
United States – H-1B Visa Eligibility
The H-1B visa is only available for individuals working in specialty occupations that require a high level of education or expertise. Here are the key eligibility criteria for the US H-1B visa:
Education: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or higher (or equivalent) in the field related to the job. For example, a software engineer must hold a degree in computer science or a related field.
Job Offer and Employer Sponsorship: To apply for an H-1B visa, an individual must have a valid job offer from a US employer who is willing to sponsor the visa application.
Specialty Occupation: The job being offered must qualify as a specialty occupation, meaning it requires at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a specialized field.
Annual Cap: There is a limit to the number of H-1B visas issued each year, with 65,000 available for regular applications and an additional 20,000 reserved for those with advanced degrees from US institutions. Because demand exceeds supply, the lottery system is used to select applicants. OFFICIAL LINK
United Kingdom – Tier 2 Visa Eligibility
The Tier 2 Visa is for skilled workers coming to the UK to take up a job offer. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
Job Offer: Applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsorship license. The job must be on the Home Office’s list of eligible occupations and meet certain salary thresholds.
Salary Threshold: The salary for the job must meet a minimum threshold, which varies depending on the occupation. As of 2023, the general salary requirement is £25,600 per year or £10.75 per hour, though some occupations may have higher salary thresholds.
English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in English by passing an approved English language test or having a degree taught in English. OFFICIAL SITE
Canada – Temporary Work Permit Eligibility
The Temporary Work Permit in Canada is available to foreign workers who have a job offer from a Canadian employer. Here are the key eligibility criteria:
Job Offer: Applicants must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. The employer may need to obtain an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) to prove that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the Canadian labor market.
Work Experience and Qualifications: The applicant must have the necessary qualifications, experience, and skills to perform the job. For certain occupations, credential assessments may be required.
Temporary Status: The work permit is typically temporary, but workers may have the opportunity to transition to permanent residency through Canada’s Express Entry system or other immigration pathways after gaining work experience in Canada. OFFICIAL SITE
Australia – TSS Visa Eligibility
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa is designed to fill skill shortages in Australia. Here’s what you need to qualify:
Job Offer: Applicants must have a job offer from an Australian employer who is willing to sponsor them under the TSS visa program. The job must be on the Skilled Occupation List, which outlines the occupations eligible for sponsorship.
Skills and Qualifications: Applicants must meet the required qualifications for the position, including skill assessments and English proficiency tests.
Salary Requirements: The salary offered to the applicant must meet the Australian government’s standards to prevent exploitation and ensure fair compensation. OFFICIAL SITE
Key Tips for a Successful Application
General Tips for All Countries
Whether you are applying for the H-1B visa, the UK’s Tier 2 Visa, Canada’s Temporary Work Permit, or Australia’s TSS Visa, there are several general tips that can increase your chances of success:
Start Early: Immigration processes can take time, and each country has specific deadlines for visa applications. Starting early allows you to gather all necessary documents and avoid rushing at the last minute.
Gather Complete Documentation: Make sure that your application is complete with all required documents, such as educational transcripts, proof of qualifications, and a detailed resume. Incomplete applications can lead to delays or denials.
Work with Experts: Immigration processes can be complicated. Consulting with an immigration attorney or expert can help you navigate the nuances of the application process, especially when it comes to understanding specific visa requirements and avoiding errors.
United States (H-1B Visa) Specific Tips
The H-1B visa is one of the most sought-after visas for foreign workers in the United States, but securing one can be competitive. With only 85,000 slots available each year, the odds are often influenced by factors beyond an applicant’s control, such as the lottery system. However, there are several things you can do to improve your chances of a successful application:
Start the Process Early: The H-1B visa application process is tied to specific timelines. Applications can be submitted as early as six months before the start date of the work, and it’s critical to be prepared well in advance. Ensure that all required documents (degree certificates, proof of prior work experience, etc.) are gathered before the application window opens.
Ensure a Strong Employer Petition: Since the H-1B visa requires employer sponsorship, it’s essential that your prospective employer files a strong petition on your behalf. This includes providing a detailed description of the job, the salary, and why you’re being hired over a US worker. The more robust and detailed the petition, the better the chances of success.
Consider the Advanced Degree Exemption: If you hold a master’s degree or higher from a US institution, you may qualify for the advanced degree exemption, which provides an additional 20,000 H-1B visa spots. This significantly boosts your chances of being selected in the lottery, so consider pursuing a US graduate degree if this option is available to you.
Be Prepared for the Lottery: The H-1B visa is subject to a lottery due to the high demand. If your application is selected, it will then be processed. Although the lottery system is largely a game of chance, having a solid application package can help speed up the approval process if selected.
Seek Legal Assistance: Given the complexities of the H-1B visa process, working with an experienced immigration lawyer can make a huge difference. An immigration attorney can help ensure that your application is submitted properly, your petition is clear, and all deadlines are met.
United Kingdom (Tier 2 Visa) Specific Tips
Securing a Tier 2 Visa in the UK is a competitive process, but with the right preparation, it’s very attainable. Here are a few tips to help you successfully apply for a Tier 2 Visa:
Find a Licensed Sponsor: The most critical requirement for a Tier 2 Visa is obtaining a job offer from a UK employer who is on the Home Office’s sponsorship list. Without this sponsorship, your application will be denied. Start by researching potential employers in the UK and ensure they hold a Tier 2 sponsorship license.
Meet the Salary Requirements: The salary threshold is one of the main factors in determining eligibility for a Tier 2 Visa. Your job offer must meet the minimum salary requirements, which can vary by occupation. If your job is on a shortage occupation list (such as engineering or healthcare roles), the salary requirements may be slightly lower.
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Ensure English Proficiency: Proving your ability to communicate in English is a vital part of the Tier 2 Visa application. If English is not your first language, you will likely need to provide proof of your language skills through an approved test (such as IELTS or TOEFL), unless you already have a degree taught in English.
Check the Occupation List: The UK’s Tier 2 Visa is only available for jobs listed on the eligible occupations list, which includes roles that require specialized skills or qualifications. Before applying, check if your occupation is on this list to ensure that you meet the requirements.
Understand the Cooling-off Period: If you hold a Tier 2 Visa and plan to extend it or apply for a different visa, there may be a cooling-off period if you’ve previously held a Tier 2 Visa. This cooling-off period is typically 12 months, so it’s essential to plan your career transitions accordingly.
Canada (Temporary Work Permit) Specific Tips
Canada’s immigration system is known for being relatively straightforward, but there are several tips to keep in mind when applying for a Temporary Work Permit in Canada:
Ensure Your Employer Has a Valid LMIA: For most Temporary Work Permits, your employer will need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from the Canadian government. The LMIA demonstrates that the employer’s decision to hire a foreign worker won’t negatively impact the Canadian job market. However, certain exemptions may apply based on the job type.
Assess Your Eligibility for Express Entry: If you are already working in Canada with a Temporary Work Permit, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through Canada’s Express Entry system. Work experience in Canada can improve your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, making it easier to transition to permanent residency.
Get Your Credentials Assessed: Some professions in Canada require credential assessments to ensure that your foreign qualifications are equivalent to Canadian standards. This is especially important for regulated professions, such as healthcare or engineering.
Make Sure Your Work Experience Matches the Job Offer: One of the most important factors for visa approval is matching your work experience to the job offer. Ensure that your resume and references clearly reflect your qualifications for the role you’re being hired for, and provide any supporting documents, such as work certificates or performance reviews.
Plan for Work-to-Permanent Residency Pathways: Canada offers multiple pathways from temporary work to permanent residency. Research these options early to understand the steps you’ll need to take after securing your work permit, whether through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Australia (TSS Visa) Specific Tips
Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa allows skilled workers to come to Australia for up to four years, depending on the stream. Here are some tips to ensure your TSS application is successful:
Check the Skilled Occupation List: Your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to be eligible for the TSS visa. Before applying, make sure that your role qualifies for sponsorship.
Ensure You Meet Skill and English Proficiency Requirements: Australia requires that TSS applicants undergo a skills assessment to verify that your qualifications meet Australian standards. In addition, all applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency (typically through an IELTS or TOEFL exam), unless they meet an exemption.
Get Employer Nomination: For the TSS visa, you must have a job offer from an employer who is willing to nominate you for the visa. Ensure that your employer is registered and meets the necessary criteria for sponsoring foreign workers.
Salary Compliance: Australia has strict salary standards to ensure that workers are paid fairly. The salary offered to TSS visa applicants must meet the minimum salary level set by the Australian government, and it must be comparable to what Australian workers would be paid for similar roles.
Consider Permanent Residency After Your TSS Visa: If you’re on a Medium-Long-Term stream of the TSS visa, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency after several years. Familiarize yourself with the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) and Skilled Independent Visa (189) pathways to understand how to transition from temporary work to permanent residency in Australia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application Process
Navigating the visa application process can be complicated, and it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
Missing Documentation: A single missing document can delay or even derail your application. Be sure to double-check that all required paperwork, including educational certificates, job offers, and financial records, are included and meet the country’s specifications.
Failure to Meet Eligibility Requirements: It’s important to thoroughly understand the specific visa eligibility criteria for your chosen country. Many applicants fail to qualify because they don’t meet the required education level or have a job offer that doesn’t meet the qualifications.
Underestimating Deadlines: Each country has strict filing deadlines, and missing a deadline can cost you your chance at a visa for the year. Make sure to stay ahead of important dates and allow ample time to submit your application.
Incorrect Job Description: The job description in your application must match the actual job you’ll be doing. Ensure that the job responsibilities and duties align with the visa requirements to avoid any discrepancies or rejections.
What Happens After the Application is Submitted?
Once you’ve submitted your work visa application, the next steps will depend on the country and the type of visa you’re applying for. While the waiting game can be nerve-wracking, understanding the general timelines and processes will help you navigate this phase with more confidence.
Processing Time for Each Country
United States (H-1B Visa): The H-1B visa process involves several stages, including the lottery system (if applicable), document processing, and visa issuance. Once your application is selected in the lottery, the processing time can take several months. Generally, it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for your application to be processed and approved.
Premium Processing: If you’re eager to get your application processed quickly, the Premium Processing option allows you to expedite the process for an additional fee. This service guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days.
RFEs (Requests for Evidence): If USCIS needs more documentation to process your application, they may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). This can delay the process, so it’s important to respond promptly and thoroughly.
United Kingdom (Tier 2 Visa): The Tier 2 Visa typically takes around 8 weeks to process, but the timeline can vary depending on your country of residence and the complexity of the application. The Home Office might request additional documents or evidence to support your application, which can extend the timeline.
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Priority Services: The UK Home Office offers a Priority Visa Service that speeds up processing. This can significantly shorten the wait time for applications.
Canada (Temporary Work Permit): Processing times for Canadian Temporary Work Permits can vary depending on the applicant’s home country, the type of job, and whether a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required. On average, the processing time can take from 2 to 6 months. For certain countries, the processing time may be shorter if there is a streamlined process.
Work Permit Processing Streams: Canada also has several processing streams, including the International Mobility Program and Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Depending on the stream, the wait time can differ, so it’s important to apply through the correct channel.
Australia (TSS Visa): The TSS Visa typically takes about 2 to 4 months for processing. However, this can vary based on factors such as whether your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List and whether the employer’s nomination has been processed promptly.
Expedited Processing: In some cases, expedited processing may be available if the employer is an approved sponsor or if the applicant qualifies for a priority stream under Australia’s immigration guidelines.
Approval vs. Denial
Once your visa application is processed, there are two possible outcomes: approval or denial. Each country has specific criteria that must be met in order for an application to be successful.
Approval: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a visa that allows you to live and work in the country for the specified duration. It’s important to carefully review the visa’s conditions, including your work restrictions and the duration of stay.
Denial: If your application is denied, you’ll typically receive an explanation of why the decision was made. Some of the most common reasons for visa denials include:
- Failure to meet the eligibility requirements (e.g., missing documentation or insufficient qualifications).
- Incomplete or incorrect information on the application.
- Issues related to the employer’s sponsorship or job offer.
- Ineligible job descriptions or misalignment between the job and applicant’s skills.
If your visa is denied, you may have the option to appeal or reapply, depending on the specific regulations of the country. In some cases, it’s advisable to consult an immigration attorney to understand the next steps and how to improve your chances on the second attempt.
Work Visa Transition: From Temporary to Permanent
For many individuals working abroad, the ultimate goal is not just a temporary work visa, but to transition to permanent residency. This is possible in most countries, although each has its own set of rules and processes for converting a temporary work visa into permanent status.
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United States (H-1B to Green Card)
In the US, one of the main benefits of the H-1B visa is the pathway it provides to a Green Card (permanent residency). However, this process requires several steps:
Labor Certification (PERM): Before transitioning from an H-1B to a Green Card, your employer must first file for PERM Labor Certification with the Department of Labor. This process is designed to prove that there are no qualified US workers for the position.
I-140 Immigrant Petition: After the PERM certification is approved, your employer can file the I-140 Immigrant Petition on your behalf. Once approved, you’ll be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): If you are already in the US, you can apply for an Adjustment of Status to transition to permanent residency. If you’re outside the US, you’ll go through consular processing.
Dual Intent: One of the advantages of the H-1B visa is that it allows for dual intent, meaning you can apply for a Green Card while on a temporary visa without jeopardizing your status.
United Kingdom (Tier 2 to Indefinite Leave to Remain)
The Tier 2 Visa allows workers to stay in the UK for up to 5 years, and after that, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which grants permanent residency. The process involves:
Meeting Eligibility Requirements: You must meet certain residency and salary requirements. Specifically, you need to have been in the UK for at least 5 years and must be earning above a specified threshold.
Life in the UK Test: Applicants for ILR must pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British customs, culture, and history.
Application Process: Once you meet the requirements, you can submit an ILR application, which will be processed by the Home Office.
Canada (Temporary Work Permit to Permanent Residency)
In Canada, transitioning from a Temporary Work Permit to permanent residency is common and is facilitated through various immigration pathways, such as Express Entry. After working in Canada for a certain period, you may be eligible for:
Express Entry: The Express Entry system manages applications for permanent residency through programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Canadian work experience significantly boosts your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, increasing your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
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Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): In addition to Express Entry, you may be eligible for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces to nominate workers for permanent residency based on local labor market needs.
Australia (TSS Visa to Permanent Residency)
Australia offers several pathways for transitioning from a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa to permanent residency:
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS): After holding a TSS visa for a certain period (typically 3 years for the Medium-Long-Term stream), you may be eligible to apply for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa. This allows you to transition to permanent residency if your employer is willing to nominate you for the visa.
Skilled Independent Visa (189): If you’ve gained enough points through Australia’s points-based immigration system, you may be eligible for a Skilled Independent Visa (189). This visa doesn’t require employer sponsorship and is based on your skills and qualifications.
Regional Skilled Migration: If you’ve worked in a regional area of Australia, you may be eligible for additional pathways to permanent residency through the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).
Visa Extension and Renewals
In most cases, work visas can be extended, provided you meet the necessary conditions. Extensions are typically granted for workers who continue to meet the eligibility requirements of the visa program.
United States (H-1B Visa Extensions)
The H-1B visa can be extended for an additional three years beyond the initial period, with a maximum total stay of six years. After six years, an individual must leave the country unless they’ve begun the process of applying for a Green Card.
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If your Green Card application is in progress and the PERM Labor Certification or I-140 petition is pending, you may be eligible for H-1B extensions beyond six years under certain conditions.
United Kingdom (Tier 2 Visa Extensions)
The Tier 2 Visa can be extended for up to 5 years, depending on the type of employment and the salary level. To extend your visa, you must still be employed by a licensed sponsor and meet the salary requirements. After completing 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Canada (Temporary Work Permit Extensions)
Temporary Work Permits can be extended if your employer continues to meet the requirements and the conditions for your work permit are still valid. For instance, if your employer’s Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is still in effect, or if you are eligible for a renewal under the International Mobility Program, you can apply for an extension.
Work Permit Extensions: Typically, Canada allows work permits to be extended for up to 2 years, after which you may need to apply for a new permit if you wish to continue working in Canada. It’s important to ensure that your application for an extension is filed before your current work permit expires to avoid any lapses in your legal status.
Permanent Residency Pathways: If you are working in Canada and wish to transition to permanent residency, work experience in Canada can greatly enhance your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through the Express Entry system.
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Australia (TSS Visa Extensions)
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa is typically granted for a period of up to 4 years, depending on the stream under which it is issued. If you wish to extend your stay in Australia, you may be able to apply for an extension under certain conditions:
Employer Nomination: If you are on the Medium or Long-Term stream, your employer may be able to sponsor you for an extension if your job and qualifications remain aligned with Australian requirements.
Permanent Residency Options: If you have worked in Australia for a significant amount of time, you may also be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) or Skilled Independent Visa (189).
Conclusion
In conclusion, navigating the complex world of work visas is a crucial step for individuals seeking career opportunities abroad. Whether you’re aiming for the H-1B visa in the United States, a Tier 2 visa in the United Kingdom, a Temporary Work Permit in Canada, or a TSS Visa in Australia, understanding the application process, eligibility requirements, and essential tips for a successful submission is key. Each country has its own set of criteria, processing times, and pathways to permanent residency, so it’s important to thoroughly research and plan ahead.
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With the right preparation—starting early, ensuring your documentation is in order, and considering legal assistance—you can increase your chances of securing the work visa that aligns with your professional goals. Transitioning from a temporary visa to permanent residency is an exciting possibility, and many countries offer pathways to make this shift smoothly.
By avoiding common mistakes and staying on top of deadlines, you set yourself up for success. The journey may be challenging, but with patience and diligence, a successful work visa application can open doors to invaluable international career experiences and new horizons.
FAQs
1. What are the most common reasons work visa applications get rejected, and how can I avoid them?
Work visa applications often get rejected due to missing or incomplete documentation, failure to meet eligibility criteria, or issues with the employer’s sponsorship. To avoid these pitfalls, ensure you gather all required documents, carefully follow the application instructions, and double-check your job offer aligns with the visa requirements. Seeking legal assistance can also help prevent errors in your submission.
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2. Can I transition from a temporary work visa to permanent residency without leaving the country?
Yes, in many cases, transitioning from a temporary work visa to permanent residency is possible without leaving the country. For example, if you’re in the US on an H-1B visa, you can apply for a Green Card while staying in the country. Similarly, the UK’s Tier 2 visa can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years. Research the specific pathways in your country to understand the process.
3. How early should I start preparing for my work visa application to ensure success?
Starting early is crucial! Ideally, you should begin your work visa preparations at least six months before your intended application date. This gives you enough time to secure all required documents, find an eligible sponsor, and address any issues that may arise during the process. The sooner you start, the less stressful the application will be.
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4. What happens if my work visa application is delayed? How can I stay on track?
Visa delays can occur for various reasons, including additional document requests or longer processing times due to high demand. To stay on track, ensure you submit a complete and accurate application on time and keep track of any notifications from the immigration authorities. If your visa is delayed, you can also consider using expedited processing services (if available) or consult with an immigration lawyer to resolve any complications.
5. What are the top skills that make you eligible for a work visa in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia?
In-demand skills vary by country, but professions in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), healthcare, and specialized trades often have higher chances of success. Countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia all prioritize occupations on their skilled occupation lists. Having a degree in these areas, combined with relevant work experience, can significantly boost your eligibility for a work visa application.