9 Most Affordable European Union Countries Offering Easy Work Visas

If you’re aiming to work in Europe without spending a fortune, 2026 offers several affordable options for skilled professionals. Despite rising visa fees in some regions, many EU countries still provide cost-effective pathways to live and work legally while enjoying diverse career and lifestyle benefits.

Germany remains one of the best-value destinations for international workers. The Skilled Worker Visa and EU Blue Card both cost €75, are valid for one year, and can be renewed easily. These visas are ideal for engineers, healthcare workers, and IT specialists seeking entry into Europe’s largest economy.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is another excellent choice for remote workers and digital professionals. For just €80, it allows one year of legal residence and remote work in Spain, offering a blend of affordability and Mediterranean living. Luxembourg also provides a strong option with its EU Blue Card, valid for up to eight years at a fee of €80, suited to those in technology, finance, and healthcare seeking long-term stability.

Poland’s D-Type National Work Visa, priced at €135, is valid for one year and offers accessible opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and IT. Austria’s Red-White-Red Card costs €160, is valid for two years, and is targeted toward skilled professionals in healthcare and engineering with a straightforward application process.

For those prioritizing innovation and progressive work environments, Sweden’s General Work Permit and Finland’s Specialist Permit stand out. Sweden’s permit costs €182 for up to two years, making it attractive for professionals in IT, research, and engineering. Finland’s permit costs €490 and is valid for up to two years, offering fast processing times for specialists in data science, software development, and research.

France and the Netherlands are slightly more expensive but offer long-term benefits. France’s Talent Passport, at €324, is valid for up to four years and caters to tech, finance, and creative professionals. The Netherlands’ Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, costing €405 and valid for five years, provides a fast route to permanent residence and is popular with engineers and tech experts.

For overall affordability, Germany and Spain lead the list, while Finland and the Netherlands are excellent for those seeking innovation, long-term stability, and high growth potential. The best EU work visa depends on your career path, financial goals, and the kind of European lifestyle you envision.