9 EU Countries Offering the Cheapest Work Visas for 2026

If you ever dreamed of working in Europe and enjoying the best work-life balance without draining your savings, 2026 might be your year. While many European countries have increased the cost of visa applications, other EU countries continue to provide affordable work visa options.

This article walks you through some of the cheapest and most practical work visa options across Europe and what kind of professionals they’re best suited for.

Cheapest EU Work Visas for 2026

Here’s a complete list of the cheapest EU work visas for 2026, with details on costs, durations, and who each visa suits best, from Germany’s Blue Card to Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa.

1. Germany

Germany is one of the most affordable places to begin your career in Europe. The Skilled Workers Visa and the EU Blue card are valid for one year and can be renewed. There is a high demand for engineers, healthcare workers, and IT specialists.

• Visa Option: Skilled Worker Visa / EU Blue Card
• Visa Fee: €75
• Validity: 1 year (extendable)

2. Spain

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is ideal for remote workers and tech specialists. The visa is valid for one year and allows you to live and work legally in Spain. You can enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle with a low visa cost.

• Visa Option: Digital Nomad Visa
• Visa Fee: €80
• Validity: 1 year

3. Luxembourg

Luxembourg offers one of the longest visa durations in Europe, lasting up to eight years. It is perfect for professionals who want to work in tech, finance, and healthcare and are looking for stability and high salaries in a small but dynamic country.

• Visa Option: EU Blue Card
• Visa Fee: €80
• Validity: Up to 96 months

4. Poland

Poland’s D-type visa offers an easy way to start working in Europe for a year. There are many job opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and IT. This makes it a good low-cost option for first-time migrants.

• Visa Option: D-Type National Work Visa
• Visa Fee: €135
• Validity: 1 year

5. Austria

Austria’s Red-White-Red Card is valid for two years. The visa is suitable for skilled professionals, particularly in engineering and healthcare. The process of applying for this visa is clear, and the country provides good support for foreign workers.

• Visa Option: Red-White-Red Card
• Visa Fee: €160
• Validity: 24 months

6. Sweden

Sweden’s work permit is valid for up to two years and is suitable for applicants in IT, R&D, and engineering roles. It’s a good choice if you want modern work policies and a high standard of living.

• Visa Option: General Work Permit
• Visa Fee: €182
• Validity: 2 years

7. France

France’s Talent Passport allows you to stay and work in the country for up to four years. Although the application fee for this visa is a bit higher, it is worthwhile for professionals in tech, finance, and creative fields who want a long-term base in Western Europe.

• Visa Option: Talent Passport
• Visa Fee: €324
• Validity: Up to 4 years

8. Netherlands

The Highly Skilled Migrant Visa allows for up to five years of residence and provides a quick route to permanent status. The Netherlands is one of the most English-friendly countries in Europe for foreign professionals in tech and engineering.

• Visa Option: Highly Skilled Migrant Visa
• Visa Fee: €405
• Validity: Up to 5 years

9. Finland

Finland’s Specialist Permit is the best option for workers with expertise in software, data science, and research. The visa costs more, but it has one of the fastest processing times. This allows you to join a cutting-edge work culture.

• Visa Option: Specialist Permit
• Visa Fee: €490
• Validity: 1–2 years

Final Thoughts

If you want affordability, Germany and Spain are the best options. However, if you value innovation, long-term stability, and career growth more, Finland and the Netherlands are worth their higher costs. The best choice depends on your profession and the lifestyle you want in Europe.