How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas

How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Working Holiday Visa Programs in France and Germany Allow 12-Month Stays Each

France and Germany have established popular Working Holiday Visa programs, allowing younger travelers to spend up to a year in each country. These programs are typically open to individuals between 18 and 30 years old, although certain nationalities might qualify up to age 35. A major advantage of these visas is that they permit working without requiring any advance authorization from authorities for different jobs. Both nations promote cultural exchanges through these programs, opening doors to a wide range of work possibilities, encompassing everything from agricultural jobs to consulting positions. Unfortunately, these visas aren't extendable. However, they offer a practical way to fund your travels through employment while immersing yourself in a new culture, making them a captivating alternative for those envisioning longer stays within Europe. The experiences these visas provide can be a pivotal stepping stone towards extended travel in the continent.


France and Germany have become popular choices for the Working Holiday Visa program, allowing travelers to stay for a full year. This offers a compelling alternative to traditional tourism, potentially slashing travel costs substantially.

The programs are particularly appealing to younger travelers, with eligibility often capped around 30 or 35 years old, depending on the nationality. France, for example, has a program for citizens of thirteen countries, while Germany has agreements with various countries including Mexico and Canada. The French program, it appears, has quite high acceptance rates for qualifying candidates. This makes it attractive to those seeking a European adventure.

The visa grants the freedom to work in a variety of jobs, though anecdotal evidence suggests a significant demand for English speakers in fields like teaching and hospitality. There are opportunities to gain valuable work experience while exploring new cultures.

In Germany, casual work can fetch reasonably good pay – potentially exceeding €9 per hour. This means that those working alongside their travels can maintain a relatively comfortable standard of living.

These countries are well-connected, and various airlines offer multi-destination tickets. Travelers often find affordable options, with some flights between European cities priced as low as €20. This affordability can enable an expanded exploration of the continent.

The appeal of both nations extends beyond just the landscape. Germany is known for its supportive environment for remote workers, with Berlin consistently featured as a top destination due to relatively low living costs and many co-working spaces. Meanwhile, France is famed for its culinary heritage, yet much of the country offers experiences that diverge from the usual tourist routes, including regions such as Alsace and Brittany.

It's intriguing how certain areas or even specific cultural experiences are able to stay more affordable compared to more popular places. Germany, with its train ticket discount programs, called 'Sparpreise', is also a prime example where it is possible to travel across the country for a fraction of the usual ticket cost. You might be able to shave up to 70% of your rail fares when using these discounts. While both countries have a lot to offer, the working holiday visa offers a unique way to fully engage with European culture while making the whole endeavor more financially attainable.

What else is in this post?

1. How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Working Holiday Visa Programs in France and Germany Allow 12-Month Stays Each
2. How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Dutch American Friendship Treaty Opens Door to Two-Year Entrepreneur Visa
3. How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Mix Seasonal Jobs Between Ireland and UK for Extended European Base
4. How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Work Remotely from Portugal with D7 Visa While Exploring Southern Europe
5. How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Combine Student Visas in Spain and Italy for Language Learning Adventures
6. How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Use Digital Nomad Visas in Estonia and Czech Republic for Tech Work

How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Dutch American Friendship Treaty Opens Door to Two-Year Entrepreneur Visa

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, or DAFT, offers a unique opportunity for American entrepreneurs to establish themselves in the Netherlands. This agreement essentially provides a two-year entrepreneur visa, but it comes with specific conditions. Applicants need to demonstrate a genuine investment in a Dutch business, meaning they must have a certain amount of their own funds in a business account tied to their company. Furthermore, a comprehensive business plan outlining their income projections is required. This is not just a casual visa for a quick trip to Europe. Authorities want to see a solid plan showing how the entrepreneur intends to earn a living without relying on the Dutch social welfare system.

The Dutch government has set a minimum annual income projection for those applying, which emphasizes the need for a solid financial strategy. For individuals seeking to maximize the potential of this visa, it may be advisable to consider establishing a limited liability company (BV) structure. Doing so could offer some tax advantages and, hopefully, help in meeting the income projections.

The initial application involves submitting the necessary documentation and scheduling a meeting with the local municipality where you intend to reside. This meeting will help obtain a BSN number, which is essential for navigating the Dutch administrative landscape. After the two-year period, it is possible to apply for an extension. The potential for renewal is up to an additional five years, indicating that the DAFT visa can act as a springboard to establishing a more permanent presence in the Netherlands.

The DAFT visa is explicitly targeted at entrepreneurs and freelancers. It's important to keep in mind that this visa route is tailored for those seeking to actively contribute to the Dutch economy. For those who aspire to experience a different European culture and potentially lay the groundwork for long-term living, this visa offers a potentially attractive route. In the wider picture of global mobility and international entrepreneurship, the DAFT visa stands as a tangible example of how countries are fostering economic connections across borders.

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, established decades ago, now offers a compelling pathway for American entrepreneurs to establish themselves in the Netherlands. This treaty essentially simplifies the process of obtaining a residency permit, enabling individuals to set up and operate businesses within the country.

The primary benefit is a two-year entrepreneur visa specifically tailored for US citizens. This visa offers a more streamlined route compared to the standard processes often encountered when applying for residency. To qualify, entrepreneurs must demonstrate a genuine business investment, which currently requires a minimum of €4,500 deposited in a Dutch business account linked to their company.

A key requirement is a robust business plan outlining the entrepreneur's intended economic contribution to the Dutch economy. This plan must show how the venture will be self-sustaining and not reliant on Dutch social welfare programs. Additionally, a projected annual profit of at least €66,000 is now expected. This might necessitate forming a limited liability company (BV) to access certain Dutch tax benefits and to ensure compliance with the profit requirements.

The process also requires applicants to schedule a meeting with the municipality in their chosen city of residence to secure a BSN number (a personal identification number required for social services and tax purposes). It's a unique system that can initially feel somewhat cumbersome to navigate for those unfamiliar with it.

The visa's initial two-year duration is potentially renewable for an additional five years, depending on compliance with the regulations. This suggests that it's not just a short-term opportunity, but one that could potentially lead to longer-term residency.

This path is specifically open to entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors looking to set up operations within the Netherlands. The Dutch immigration authorities have specific requirements related to the nature of the business and its projected economic impact. This focus on entrepreneurial activity and innovation underscores the country's welcoming approach to individuals who can contribute to the local economy.

While not a guaranteed route to permanent residency, successful entrepreneurs operating their business can potentially transition into different visa types, offering a potential for long-term settlement if the initial requirements continue to be met. There's a clear emphasis on economic impact and entrepreneurial contribution.

Dutch cities, particularly Amsterdam and Rotterdam, are actively encouraging entrepreneurship and fostering innovation. Numerous co-working spaces and incubators support these endeavors, providing resources and networking opportunities. However, it's important to acknowledge that the cost of living, especially in these larger cities, can be a significant factor. It's important to thoroughly research and factor these costs into the overall planning process.


The Dutch government actively promotes events and workshops aimed at attracting and supporting foreign entrepreneurs, with the hopes of fostering business development in the country. This could be a considerable benefit for individuals seeking to navigate the Dutch business landscape, providing them with access to resources and insights.


While the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty represents a positive initiative, one must also consider the current economic environment and whether this route is truly beneficial in the longer term. Factors like inflation, a possible economic downturn, and competition within the Dutch market should be carefully considered. The path isn't without hurdles. Yet, for ambitious and well-prepared entrepreneurs seeking an opportunity to establish themselves in the heart of Europe, this visa offers a viable and potentially impactful path.

How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Mix Seasonal Jobs Between Ireland and UK for Extended European Base

Combining seasonal work opportunities in Ireland and the UK presents a compelling strategy for extended stays across Europe. The UK, since its departure from the EU, now requires non-EU workers to secure specific job offers before applying for a Seasonal Worker visa, allowing up to six months of work in sectors like agriculture and hospitality. Meanwhile, Ireland offers its own spectrum of seasonal employment, particularly within the tourism sector, providing a chance to experience the country's vibrant culture.

This approach allows travelers to extend their European adventure by seamlessly transitioning between both countries, maximizing their time in diverse settings and exploring both nations' distinctive offerings. However, the UK’s post-Brexit changes require careful planning and research to ensure your eligibility for the visa, as job offers are now mandatory. For those seeking a longer-term European experience, this blend of seasonal work can be an effective way to support travel and explore various parts of the continent. It's a dynamic path that blends professional engagement with cultural immersion, creating a richly rewarding travel experience.

Mixing seasonal work between Ireland and the UK presents an interesting approach to extending one's European base. The relatively low-cost airfares offered by airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, sometimes as low as €15, make hopping between the two countries fairly easy. This is due in part to airlines' enhanced operational efficiency, resulting from technology investments, which have improved flight networks and made travel more convenient.

The hospitality sector in Ireland is particularly robust, seeing consistent job growth. This is partly due to the rise in popularity of farm-to-table restaurants, representing a growing trend in the local culinary scene. This creates ample opportunity for those seeking seasonal employment, and hospitality might appeal to those who want a taste of the Irish food and drink experience.

The UK job market also holds potential for seasonal work, with opportunities in urban areas and along the coast. While Brexit has added some complexity for EU workers, the UK still offers a Seasonal Worker visa specifically aimed at industries like horticulture. This visa scheme permits work of up to six months, but only in particular sectors.

The flexibility afforded by these options has gained further momentum through recent visa changes. The updated UK Youth Mobility Scheme, which was revised in 2021, now allows citizens of certain countries to stay for up to two years, offering a significant opportunity for working holidaymakers from Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. This expanded flexibility potentially caters to a wider range of job seekers interested in experiences between Ireland and the UK.


The rise of platforms such as Airbnb has increased short-term rental options in cities like Dublin and London, potentially mitigating the challenges of increasing accommodation costs, especially for short-term workers. This availability is crucial, as it can help people to minimize the expenses associated with living in two countries.

Infrastructure investments in Ireland, including over €1 billion allocated to public transport networks, are likely to further enhance accessibility between cities and job opportunities. These upgrades will shorten commutes and potentially improve cross-border access for seasonal workers.

Additionally, the calendar is punctuated by numerous cultural festivals across both Ireland and the UK, many of which require temporary staff. This can create opportunities for those looking for employment that connects with local traditions and customs. Think of the Dublin Theatre Festival, or similar events that boost tourism and require extra help in restaurants and hotels.

There's a growing trend of Irish professionals considering short-term contracts in the UK, demonstrating the interconnection of these two labor markets. This indicates that workers are increasingly flexible and open to working in different locations for short durations.

Lastly, though some might overlook this point, the ability to use air miles and points programs effectively can help to stretch travel budgets further. It's fascinating how careful point accrual and smart utilization of loyalty schemes can potentially reduce travel costs by as much as 50%. This could potentially contribute to a more financially sustainable way to maintain a European base between Ireland and the UK.

In conclusion, mixing seasonal jobs between Ireland and the UK seems to be a feasible strategy for extended stays in Europe. The availability of relatively cheap flights, coupled with job opportunities and flexible visa options, presents a unique chance to explore different cultures and economies. However, careful planning and consideration of the associated costs, particularly those of living and housing, are crucial for those wanting to maximize this opportunity.

How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Work Remotely from Portugal with D7 Visa While Exploring Southern Europe

Portugal's D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa, presents a compelling option for remote workers seeking to base themselves in the country while exploring Southern Europe. It's designed for individuals with a steady income stream from outside Portugal, like freelancers or those living off investments. This visa allows legal residence in Portugal, opening doors to the country's beautiful scenery and relaxed lifestyle. A key advantage is the potential for permanent residency after a five-year period, potentially leading to Portuguese citizenship. This long-term perspective makes the D7 Visa a strong option for those who envision a future in Europe.

While the D7 Visa historically favored those with passive income, the newer Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in late 2022, offers more direct pathways for remote workers. This visa, alongside the D7 Visa, provides a welcome choice for those wanting to live and work remotely. From Portugal, exploring the rest of Southern Europe is often easy and relatively inexpensive, with many budget-friendly airlines operating in the region.

It seems that Portugal has become quite aware of the rising trend of remote work. They've cleverly created options to draw in remote workers and freelancers. However, one needs to be realistic about the income requirements for some of these visas. There have been reports that some D7 applications were denied if the candidate only relied on a single income stream like a remote salary or freelance work. You will need to carefully consider your income and expenses if you want to be successful with a D7 Visa application.

In conclusion, Portugal has become a hotspot for remote workers thanks to its visas and a location that makes exploring Southern Europe convenient. However, as with any visa application, understanding the requirements and making a strategic plan is critical to ensure your application's success.

Portugal presents a compelling option for remote workers seeking a European base, particularly with the D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa. This visa is specifically designed for individuals with a steady income source outside Portugal, including retirees, freelancers, and those earning income from investments or rental properties. One of the key advantages is that a D7 Visa holder can eventually, after five years of residency, potentially apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Interestingly, prior to the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa in October 2022, many remote workers with substantial overseas income found success securing residency through the D7 Visa, particularly in 2021 and 2022. However, the requirements have tightened since then. The Portuguese government has, since May 2022, become more selective, sometimes rejecting D7 applications from individuals with only a single income stream, like a remote salary or freelance earnings.

The Digital Nomad Visa, a more recent addition, offers two tracks for remote work: a temporary stay visa for up to one year and a longer temporary residency permit that can stretch up to five years. This visa provides the benefit of visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, a region covering much of Europe. This is part of a broader trend across Europe that has seen a growing number of countries introduce visas specifically for remote workers, recognizing their potential economic contribution.

It's intriguing that Portugal has become attractive for remote workers, partly due to its relatively low cost of living compared to other Western European nations. Portugal's infrastructure, particularly the train system Comboios de Portugal (CP), is well-developed, enabling cost-effective travel not only within Portugal but also to neighboring countries like Spain. It's also worth noting that Lisbon, the capital, enjoys a pleasant climate, with abundant sunshine throughout the year.

From a purely financial perspective, Portugal’s food scene offers surprisingly low prices. Many traditional meals in local eateries, known as 'tascas' or taverns, are available for under €10. And while it's usually possible to find budget airfares within Europe, competition from low-cost carriers has made Portugal's major airports, particularly Lisbon and Porto, even more attractive. With some planning, airfares as low as €15 are not uncommon.

The D7 Visa also opens up opportunities to explore Southern Europe, as Portugal is part of the Schengen Area. This allows for easy travel to other countries, such as Spain, Italy, and France, without requiring separate visa applications. Furthermore, Portugal's urban areas boast a solid internet infrastructure, which has attracted a significant community of remote workers and digital nomads, supported by the emergence of numerous co-working spaces.

Naturally, the cost of accommodation can vary significantly, but shared living spaces offer a viable way to significantly lower costs. There are even some dedicated co-living environments catering specifically to remote workers, promoting community and professional networking. The Portuguese government has shown interest in attracting remote workers and entrepreneurs, potentially providing tax benefits that could make Portugal an even more appealing location for those considering a longer-term stay.

Beyond these aspects, Portugal offers a rich historical and cultural heritage. It's common to find local festivals and cultural events, often very affordable, in cities like Lisbon and Porto, presenting unique opportunities to connect with the local population during non-working hours. In the wider context of Europe and exploring diverse opportunities for stays of two years or longer, Portugal, with its visa options and appealing lifestyle, might be worth exploring for anyone considering a more long-term presence in Europe.

How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Combine Student Visas in Spain and Italy for Language Learning Adventures

Pairing student visas in Spain and Italy creates a fantastic pathway to immerse yourself in language learning while cleverly maximizing your time in Europe. Spain offers a Long-stay Visa (Visa D), which is needed for any studies longer than 90 days. Italy, on the other hand, has a shorter-term visa option (Schengen) that's suitable for courses under 90 days. The costs of these visas can vary, with Italy's option currently coming in at around €116 and some additional fees for permits and administration. The application process can be a little complicated, so it's essential to carefully review each country's specific requirements. This is where accurate information from official sources is vital. Language schools are often prioritized in both countries, presenting a good avenue for visa applications. This strategic approach to visa use can be a key component of a larger plan to travel and live in Europe for an extended period. By combining student visas with the potential of Working Holiday Visas, you might be able to extend your European experience in a way that lets you learn new languages and explore fascinating cultures. It could be a truly rewarding journey that's both personally fulfilling and culturally enriching. However, keep in mind that this approach will take a fair amount of planning and flexibility.

Exploring Europe through language learning can be a captivating adventure, and Spain and Italy present an enticing combination for those seeking such experiences. The possibility of blending student visas in these two culturally rich nations opens doors to a variety of opportunities that could enhance the overall educational experience.

Firstly, the sheer variety of language learning options in both countries is worth considering. Both Spain and Italy have a long tradition of language schools, many of which have been in existence for decades. Some are internationally recognized, even offering academic credit transfer options for those seeking academic recognition in the US or UK. Their focus often extends beyond language learning, sometimes offering culinary programs that blend traditional cuisine with language instruction. The availability of these kinds of unique courses might make for a richer overall experience for the student.

Secondly, travel between these two countries can be quite affordable due to the presence of numerous low-cost airlines. Traveling between Spain and Italy can be remarkably cheap, with some flights going for as low as €15. This access allows the student to readily explore destinations beyond the initial chosen city, and to use the language learning skills outside the classroom. There are multiple opportunities to engage with the local culture through language exchange programs, events, and activities. 'Intercambio' nights in Spain, or 'tandem' exchanges in Italy, could be a way to both expand language skills, while also allowing for social interaction with local people.


Another aspect worth investigating is the possibility of part-time employment. Both countries typically allow for some part-time work while on a student visa. This potentially offers an extra income stream to help cover part of the living costs. The experiences gained through working could help cement language learning in a practical way. Furthermore, both countries host a variety of events throughout the year, from the Seville Fair in Andalusia to the Venetian Carnival. It seems there are multiple chances to test newly acquired language skills in social settings.

The travel infrastructure in both nations should also be taken into account. Both Spain and Italy have extensive high-speed train networks. It is quite easy to cover relatively long distances in reasonable time. This opens up many possibilities for weekend trips to explore the surrounding countryside, allowing for travel on a budget while also practicing language skills. Also, the cost of higher education is not uniform across both countries. Students seeking to reduce costs might investigate learning Italian in cities like Palermo, a destination that offers lower educational costs compared to more famous and tourist-driven cities like Florence.

Lastly, many universities in Spain and Italy offer scholarships for international students, frequently funded by European Union programs. This can play a major role in helping students mitigate the cost of education, and could potentially even reduce or eliminate the need for part-time employment while studying. Additionally, both countries are part of the EU and there are mechanisms to allow for coverage of some healthcare needs. This means that with proper local health insurance documentation, students can hopefully enjoy peace of mind while studying.

In summary, combining student visas in Spain and Italy can present a fascinating option for language learners, offering opportunities for cultural immersion, affordable travel, and professional development. There are a number of factors to consider before deciding, such as the cost of living, the nature of the available educational programs, and the scholarship options. However, these factors when taken together with the potential for cultural exchange and affordable travel, can pave the way for a deeply enriching travel and educational experience.

How to Stay in Europe for 2 Years A Strategic Guide to Working Holiday and Multiple-Entry Visas - Use Digital Nomad Visas in Estonia and Czech Republic for Tech Work

Estonia and the Czech Republic have emerged as appealing destinations for tech professionals seeking to live and work remotely through their Digital Nomad Visa programs. Estonia, a frontrunner in this space, introduced its Digital Nomad Visa in 2020, enabling remote workers to stay for up to a year. To qualify, applicants typically need to demonstrate a valid employment contract with a company located outside the country, alongside a monthly income exceeding roughly €4,500. The Czech Republic, while offering a similar visa option, might have a more flexible duration for tech workers. Both countries also offer a selection of other visa categories that potentially allow longer stays, providing various routes for those interested in exploring Europe without the usual constraints on employment. As more nations adopt these types of visas, it appears that working remotely as a digital nomad and living in Europe is becoming increasingly feasible. The landscape of travel options for extended European stays is expanding and the digital nomad visa programs in Estonia and the Czech Republic represent two compelling examples of how it's becoming easier to work while traveling and exploring Europe.

Estonia and the Czech Republic have emerged as attractive destinations for tech workers seeking to combine remote work with travel through their Digital Nomad Visas. Estonia's program, launched a few years ago, allows remote workers to stay for up to a year, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to attracting talent for their growing digital economy. This initiative has positioned them as a leader in embracing the digital nomad trend.

The Czech Republic has also jumped on the digital nomad bandwagon, with a similar visa aimed at attracting tech workers, though the specifics on duration are less clear. Both countries emphasize the need for applicants to show proof of remote work – either a valid employment contract from a company outside their borders or evidence of freelancing for clients predominantly located elsewhere. It’s worth mentioning that Estonia has a minimum income requirement for the visa, currently around €4,500 per month. This, needless to say, creates a barrier for many potential applicants.

The application process for Estonia's program involves submitting usual documentation, such as a passport copy, recent photos, and other supporting documents. It's standard stuff that one finds with visa applications.

The appeal of these two countries extends beyond just the visas. Both locations have characteristics that are interesting for remote workers. The affordability of living and working in Estonia and the Czech Republic is a key draw, with low-cost airlines offering surprisingly cheap flights between many European tech hubs, sometimes as low as €20. This creates opportunities to travel easily within Europe while maintaining a base in either Tallinn or Prague. Furthermore, Estonia, particularly, is renowned for its robust digital infrastructure and the prevalence of co-working spaces in urban environments. This can help build communities and create more social experiences for those who often work in isolation.

The Czech Republic is also witnessing a growth in short-term rental options, driven by the rise in digital nomad visas. This is evident with the proliferation of services like Airbnb, making affordable housing more accessible, though it is a double-edged sword, potentially further squeezing the housing market. It's fascinating how cities adapt to a new influx of workers. While Czech administrative processes are not always the fastest, digital nomads might also find the option of short-term visa extensions useful to enjoy local cultural festivals and events—a unique benefit that some other visa programs don't offer.

It's also interesting that the availability of traditional cuisine in the Czech Republic is often much cheaper than in other European countries. You can easily find meals for under €10. This can be a boon for those living on a budget, particularly for those coming from higher-cost countries. On the other hand, those choosing Estonia as their base might appreciate their streamlined online government services, simplifying tasks like obtaining permits and access to public services.

While Estonia has positioned itself as a technological leader in Europe and offers a high-quality internet infrastructure, the Czech Republic, on the other hand, seems to combine more a balanced mix of Baltic and Central European cultural heritage. This creates a distinct environment that offers a different kind of appeal to those choosing it as a destination for longer-term stays. It also presents opportunities to easily explore nearby countries via inexpensive travel options. It's certainly an advantage to live in a region that allows for weekend excursions to neighboring countries without having to worry about visas and travel costs.

Digital Nomad Visas, in general, have become more common in Europe over the past few years, providing options for tech workers seeking a more flexible work-life experience. While they are designed to attract specific skillsets to certain countries, they are also creating a new dynamic in how some people work and live. However, as with all visas, careful planning and a clear understanding of the requirements are vital to a successful application, ensuring you choose the visa and destination that best suits your individual needs and work situation.