Working Visa Guide for Top Tech Destinations

## United States

### H-1B Specialty Occupation

- **Cap**: 65,000 + 20,000 (master's exemption).
- **Lottery**: Selection rate ~25-30%.
- **Timeline**: File March, start October 1.
- **Duration**: 3 years, renewable to 6.
- **Path to PR**: Yes, via PERM labor certification → Green Card.
- **Spouse work**: H-4 EAD available with approved I-140.

### O-1B Extraordinary Ability

- **No cap, no lottery**.
- Requires evidence of extraordinary ability.
- Growing option for senior tech workers with publications, patents, or major project impact.

## United Kingdom

### Skilled Worker Visa

- **Salary requirement**: £38,700 minimum (or going rate for the role).
- **Processing**: 3-8 weeks.
- **Duration**: Up to 5 years, renewable.
- **Path to PR**: ILR after 5 years.
- **Points-based**: Salary, English, sponsor, shortage occupation.

### Global Talent Visa

- No job offer required.
- Endorsed by Tech Nation for exceptional talent.
- Fast-track ILR possible after 3 years.

## Germany

### EU Blue Card

- **Salary requirement**: €45,300 (shortage occupations) or €58,400 (standard).
- **Processing**: 1-3 months.
- **Path to PR**: 21 months with B1 German (33 months otherwise).
- **Spouse**: Immediate work authorization.

### IT Specialist Visa (New)

- No degree required (3+ years experience accepted).
- Salary: €45,300 minimum.
- Great option for self-taught developers.

## Canada

### Express Entry

- Points-based system (CRS score).
- No job offer required (but helps).
- Processing: 6-8 months.
- **Tech-specific streams**: BC PNP Tech, Ontario Tech Draw.
- **Global Talent Stream**: 2-week processing for designated employers.

## Singapore

### Employment Pass (EP)

- **Salary requirement**: SGD 5,600+ (higher for experienced workers).
- **COMPASS framework**: Points for salary, qualifications, diversity, company support.
- **Processing**: 3-8 weeks.
- **Duration**: 2-3 years, renewable.
- **Path to PR**: After 6 months on EP.

## Australia

### Subclass 482 (TSS)

- Short-term (2 years) or Medium-term (4 years).
- Must be nominated by employer.
- Processing: 1-4 months.
- **Tech-specific**: ICT roles on medium-term skills list.

### Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)

- Points-tested, no employer needed.
- Direct permanent residency.
- Highly competitive (high points threshold).

## Key Takeaways

1. Start visa processes early — most take 1-6 months.
2. The US H-1B lottery is the least predictable pathway.
3. EU Blue Card offers the fastest PR pathway (21 months with German).
4. Canada is the most immigration-friendly for tech workers.
5. Factor visa timelines into offer negotiations and start dates.