A National (D) Work Visa is a long-stay visa that allows non-EU nationals to live and work legally in a specific European country for more than 90 days. It is usually issued for employment, traineeships, or long-term work contracts and is the first step toward getting a residence permit.
Unlike short-stay visas, a National (D) visa is designed for people who plan to stay, work, and settle temporarily or long-term in a country.
Who Needs a National (D) Work Visa?
You typically need a National (D) work visa if you:
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Are not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen
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Have a job offer, traineeship, or employment contract in a European country
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Plan to work for more than 90 days
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Intend to apply for a residence permit after arrival
Most European countries use the National (D) visa system for foreign workers.
What Does a National (D) Work Visa Allow You to Do?
With a valid National (D) work visa, you can:
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Enter the country legally for long-term work
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Start employment with the approved employer
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Apply for a residence card or work residence permit
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Travel within the Schengen Area (short stays, usually up to 90 days)
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Renew your residence permit if eligibility continues
The visa itself is often temporary, but it leads to longer legal stay through residence registration.
How Long Is a National (D) Work Visa Valid?
The validity depends on the country and job type, but generally:
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Issued for 3 to 12 months
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Used to enter the country
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Converted into a residence permit after arrival
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Residence permits are usually valid for 1–2 years and renewable
Difference Between National (D) Visa and Schengen (C) Visa
| Feature | National (D) Work Visa | Schengen (C) Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Long-term work or stay | Short visits |
| Duration | Over 90 days | Up to 90 days |
| Work allowed | Yes | No |
| Residence permit | Yes | No |
| Path to renewal | Yes | No |
A Schengen visa does not allow employment, while a National (D) visa is issued specifically for work or long-term stay.
Common Types of National (D) Work Visas
National (D) visas are issued for different purposes, including:
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Employment or factory work
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Seasonal or agricultural work
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Traineeships and internships
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Skilled worker roles
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Healthcare and technical jobs
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Intra-company transfers
Each country sets its own eligibility rules, salary limits, and documentation requirements.
Basic Requirements for a National (D) Work Visa
While requirements vary by country, most applicants need:
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Valid passport
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Job offer or employment contract
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Work permit approval (if required)
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Proof of accommodation
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Health insurance
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Police clearance (in some cases)
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Proof of financial means
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Visa application form and fee
Some countries require the employer to apply first before the worker submits the visa application.
What Happens After You Enter the Country?
After entering with a National (D) visa, you must usually:
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Register your address
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Apply for a residence permit or residence card
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Provide biometric data
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Receive a residence card linked to your job
Failure to complete these steps may affect your legal status.
Can a National (D) Work Visa Lead to Permanent Residence?
Yes, in many countries.
If you:
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Work legally for several years
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Renew your residence permit on time
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Pay taxes and social security
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Meet language or integration rules
You may qualify for long-term residence or permanent residency. Some countries also allow family reunification after a certain period.
Important Things to Know Before Applying
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A National (D) visa is country-specific
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You cannot freely work in another EU country
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Changing employers may require approval
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Overstaying or working illegally can lead to bans
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Always apply through official channels or verified assistance
How EU Helpers Can Assist You
EU Helpers supports applicants by:
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Explaining country-specific visa rules
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Guiding document preparation
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Helping with employer-based processes
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Assisting with legal work and residence pathways
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Reducing errors and delays in applications
Professional guidance increases approval chances and ensures compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a National (D) work visa the same in every country?
No. Each European country sets its own rules, duration, and requirements.
Can I change jobs on a National (D) visa?
Usually only with approval from immigration authorities.
Can family members join me?
Many countries allow family reunification after certain conditions are met.
Do I need to leave the country to renew?
In most cases, renewals are done within the country.