Which countries allow skilled work without degree?

Several countries offer work visas for professionals without a university degree, focusing instead on skills, work experience, vocational training, or labor shortages. Here is a list of such countries with relevant visa options:

1. Canada

Canada offers work permits under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and International Mobility Program for skilled trades and labor jobs. No university degree is required if the applicant has job-specific training or experience. Certain provincial nominee programs also target non-degree occupations.

2. Australia

Australia allows skilled migration for various trades under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. Many occupations on the skilled occupation list, like electricians, plumbers, and mechanics, do not require a university degree but do require certification and experience.

3. Germany

Germany has a visa pathway for skilled workers (Skilled Workers Immigration Act) that includes trades such as carpentry, welding, and electrical work. A vocational qualification and relevant experience are required instead of a degree.

4. New Zealand

New Zealand offers work visas for skilled workers in construction, agriculture, hospitality, and healthcare sectors through its Accredited Employer Work Visa. These often do not require a university degree but do require relevant experience.

5. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE provides employment visas in sectors like construction, retail, logistics, and hospitality. No degree is needed, but a valid job offer and work contract are required.

6. United Kingdom

The UK Skilled Worker visa includes roles that do not require university degrees, such as chefs, care workers, and tradespeople. The key requirement is a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor foreign workers.

7. Japan

Japan offers work visas for technical intern training and specified skilled worker programs. These are aimed at foreign nationals with skills in fields like caregiving, food service, and manufacturing. A degree is not needed, but applicants must pass skill and language tests.

8. South Korea

The Employment Permit System allows non-professionals to work in manufacturing, agriculture, fishing, and construction sectors. This system is open to workers without university education but requires passing a skills and language test.

9. Poland

Poland offers work visas in construction, warehousing, agriculture, and manufacturing. These typically require a job offer but not higher education.

10. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic allows foreign workers to apply for work permits in sectors facing labor shortages, including factory work, warehousing, and skilled trades, without the need for a degree.

In summary, countries facing labor shortages in skilled trades, caregiving, manufacturing, and service industries often offer visa options that prioritize experience and technical training over academic qualifications.