Definition
A work permit is a government-issued authorisation that allows a foreign national to engage in paid employment or self-employment in a country where they are not a citizen. In many EU member states, the work permit is merged with the residence permit into a single document (the Single Permit). A work permit may be employer-specific (tied to a particular job and employer) or open (allowing any employment), and may be restricted by sector, hours, or activity type. EU/EEA nationals generally do not require a work permit within the EU/EEA area.
Official sources
Related terms
EU Blue Card
Blaue Karte EU
An EU-wide work and residence permit for highly qualified non-EU workers. Requires a job offer meeting a minimum salary threshold and recognised qualifications.
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Labour Market Test
A requirement for employers to demonstrate they could not find a suitable EEA candidate before hiring a non-EU worker for a specific position.
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Residence Permit
An official document or authorisation that entitles a non-citizen to legally reside in a country for a specified period, often but not always including the right to work.
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Single Permit
GVVA (Gecombineerde Vergunning voor Verblijf en Arbeid)
A combined work and residence permit issued by EU member states that replaces separate work and residence authorisations with one document.
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Sponsorship
A formal arrangement where a licensed employer or organisation takes legal responsibility for a non-EU worker's immigration application and compliance obligations.
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