A Guide to EU Visa Categories for Non-EU Nationals

Are you planning to visit, study or work in the EU but not sure which visa you need? In this video, Manager Harry Goldstraw breaks down the main EU visa categories for non-EU nationals, helping you understand your options and choose the right path. 

What You Will Learn: 

✔️ What is a Schengen visa and how it works 
✔️ The difference between short-stay and long-stay (national) visas 
✔️ How to apply for a national visa to work, study or join family 
✔️ When you need a transit visa for EU airport layovers 
✔️ Who qualifies for working holiday visas 
✔️ Everything you need to know about the EU Blue Card for skilled professionals 
✔️ Tips for choosing the right EU visa based on your goals 

Whether you are planning a short visit or a long-term move, this guide will help you get started with confidence. 

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A Guide to EU Visa Categories for Non-EU Nationals 

 

If you're a non-EU national looking to visit, study, live or work in the European Union, understanding which EU visa category is right for you is a crucial first step. With various visa types available across EU member states, and varying requirements per country, it can be difficult to know where to start. 

In this article, we provide a high-level overview of the most common visa categories for non-EU citizens, including their purpose, duration, and eligibility. Whether you're exploring Europe for business or planning a long-term relocation, this guide is designed to help you better understand your options. 

Schengen Visa (Short-Stay Visa) 

Best for: Tourism, business travel, or short family visits 

The Schengen visa allows non-EU nationals to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes 29 European countries that have removed internal border controls. It's often referred to as a short-stay visa and is valid for: 

• • • Up to 90 days within a rolling 180-day period 

• • • Multiple entries, as long as the total stay does not exceed 90 days 

This visa covers business trips, holidays, or family visits. Travelers should keep careful track of their days in the region, as the 90-day limit applies across all countries and purposes. 

National Long-Stay Visas (D Visas) 

Best for: Studying, working, or joining family in a specific EU country 

A national long-stay visa, also called a D visa, is for non-EU citizens who plan to stay in one EU country for more than 90 days. These visas are typically issued for: 

• • • Academic studies 

• • • Employment 

• • • Family reunification 

• • • Paths to permanent residency or citizenship 

Each country has its own process and requirements. Most long-stay visas include a follow-up step to apply for a residence permit after entry. 

Transit Visas 

Best for: Airport layovers in the Schengen Area 

A transit visa allows travelers to pass through an international airport zone in a Schengen country without entering the country itself. These are short-duration visas for individuals transiting between flights. 

• • • Required only for citizens of specific countries 

• • • Does not permit travelers to leave the airport or clear immigration 

Working Holiday Visas 

Best for: Young professionals seeking travel and temporary work 

Working holiday visas are offered through bilateral agreements between the EU and certain countries. These visas allow young adults to work and travel in the EU for a limited period, typically: 

• • • 1 to 2 years in duration 

• • • Designed for cultural exchange and temporary employment 

• • • Usually not eligible for long-term residence 

Eligibility is often based on age and education, and agreements are usually reciprocal. 

EU Blue Card 

Best for: Highly skilled professionals moving to the EU for work 

The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit for highly qualified non-EU nationals. It is valid for up to four years and can be renewed. It offers: 

• • • The right to live and work in an EU country 

• • • Portability to another EU country under certain conditions 

• • • A pathway to permanent residence by combining time spent in multiple EU states 

Applicants must usually hold a higher education degree and a job offer that meets a defined salary threshold. 

Note: The EU Blue Card is just one type of long-term national work visa. Many EU countries offer additional national work visa routes tailored to specific professions or industries. These are not covered in this overview but are equally important for non-EU nationals considering a long-term move. 

Choosing the Right EU Visa 

When selecting a visa, consider: 

• • • Your intended length of stay 

• • • Your primary reason for travel 

• • • The specific country you plan to live or work in 

• • • Whether you want to eventually apply for permanent residence 

Visa rules, eligibility criteria, and application procedures vary by country. Be sure to check the latest guidance from the country’s immigration authorities. 

Supporting Your EU Immigration Journey 

Whether you're applying for a personal visa or managing employee mobility across borders, Fragomen provides immigration services tailored to your goals. From individual support to global workforce planning, we help you navigate complex EU immigration systems with clarity and confidence. 

For more guidance on EU visas or help with your application, reach out to Fragomen’s immigration professionals.