How Portugal Is Strengthening Labor Integration through Public-Private Partnerships

 As Portugal continues to face workforce shortages across multiple sectors from agriculture to construction and elder care, it is taking a more coordinated approach to migrant labor integration. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are emerging as the country’s most pragmatic strategy for ensuring that foreign workers fill labor gaps and receive the support they need to build stable, productive lives. Through cooperation between government agencies, nonprofits, and employers, Portugal is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive labor market.

A Shift toward Collaborative Integration

Portugal has long been a country of emigration, but that trend has shifted in recent years. According to Portugal’s Immigration and Borders Service (SEF), over 781,000 foreigners resided in the country legally as of 2024. A number that has steadily increased since 2017. With the country experiencing an aging population and declining birth rate, foreign labor is no longer a short-term fix, it’s a structural necessity.

Recognizing this, the Portuguese government launched a new visa program tailored to jobseekers and low-skilled workers in 2022. This visa opened the door for nationals of CPLP (Community of Portuguese Language Countries) and beyond. However, filling jobs is only the beginning. The real challenge lies in integrating foreign workers into society in a sustainable way, where they have access to housing, training, and healthcare, and where employers receive support in managing a multicultural workforce.

The Role of Public-Private Partnerships

Portugal’s current model relies heavily on PPPs to connect incoming labor with the right support systems. Government ministries collaborate with municipalities, labor unions, employer associations, and NGOs to align goals and pool resources. These partnerships often extend to language training, vocational up skilling, legal counseling, and housing access.

According to Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio, a global platform facilitating ethical labor mobility, “Portugal is emerging as a case study in what happens when the public and private sectors actually coordinate. The government sets the framework, but employers and nonprofits are the ones translating that policy into real, human-level support.”

Concrete Examples: Where Integration Is Working

One notable example is the collaboration between the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP) and private sector employers. Together, they’ve developed tailored training programs for roles in hospitality, logistics, and construction. Workers receive sector-specific instruction, often in Portuguese, before being placed in jobs.

Municipalities like Lisbon and Porto are also taking action. They’re offering temporary housing and onboarding sessions through partnerships with local charities. In some regions, mobile teams visit migrant-heavy neighborhoods to provide documentation help, health access, and cultural orientation.

“Integration isn’t a linear process,” says Jon Purizhansky. “It takes responsive systems. Portugal’s mobile services and employer-led training programs are showing that integration can be customized, fast-tracked, and humane.”

Employer Involvement as a Cornerstone

Employers in Portugal are increasingly aware that attracting migrant labor without investing in integration can backfire. High turnover, worker dissatisfaction, and even legal exposure are common risks when integration is overlooked.

To address this, companies like Sovena (a major player in the olive oil sector) and construction firms in the Algarve region have introduced internal mentorship programs and multilingual HR support teams. These internal systems are often built in cooperation with external nonprofits, who provide expertise in intercultural communication and labor rights.

“Employers benefit when workers stay longer, perform better, and feel supported,” says Jon Purizhansky. “That means integrating labor is in everyone’s interest, not just ethically, but economically.”

Outcomes and Outlook

The early results of Portugal’s PPP strategy are promising. The Ministry of Labor reported a 23% increase in employment rates among non-EU nationals from 2021 to 2024. Worker retention in sectors such as agriculture and construction has improved, and the demand for vocational training continues to grow.

However, challenges remain. Affordable housing is still in short supply, especially in urban centers. Bureaucratic delays in visa processing and certification recognition are persistent hurdles. But the PPP model offers flexibility, nonprofits and private players are often more agile than state bureaucracies, and can step in to fill gaps quickly.

Looking ahead, Portugal plans to expand partnerships with organizations that can provide scalable housing solutions and increase funding for digital upskilling. These efforts are seen as essential for integration and for economic resilience.

As many European countries debate the costs and complications of migration, Portugal is proving that solutions lie in partnership, not polarization. Its strategy acknowledges the complexity of labor mobility and embraces shared responsibility.

“Portugal’s model shows that when migration is managed transparently and collaboratively, everyone wins,” says Jon Purizhansky. “The public sector ensures fairness, employers gain workforce stability, and workers get a chance at real belonging. That’s what the future of labor mobility should look like.”

Originally Posted: https://jonpurizhansky.medium.com/how-portugal-is-strengthening-labor-integration-through-public-private-partnerships-36478fdd9ea3

How Brazilians Can Obtain a Work Visa in Portugal

Portugal has emerged as one of the most attractive European destinations for Brazilian workers. With shared language roots, cultural proximity, and increasing demand for labor in agriculture, construction, hospitality, and healthcare, Brazilians continue to pursue professional opportunities in Portugal through legal channels.

But navigating the work visa process requires clarity. This article breaks down how Brazilians can apply for and obtains a Portuguese work visa, outlines recent trends, and features insights from Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio, and an impact-driven global recruitment platform focused on ethical labor mobility.

The Demand Landscape: Why Portugal Needs Brazilian Workers.

The Portuguese labor market is facing a persistent shortage in skilled and semi-skilled sectors. According to data from Instituto Nacional de Estatística (INE), the country had over 140,000 unfilled job vacancies in early 2025, particularly in tourism, agriculture, construction, and elder care.

Jon Purizhansky explains:“Portugal’s aging population and low birthrate mean there’s a sustained need for incoming workers. Brazilians often arrive with high adaptability and relevant skills, especially in service industries. The challenge lies in ensuring they enter through legal pathways that protect them and meet employer standards.”

This demand has prompted the government to streamline legal employment channels, particularly through the Temporary Stay Visa and Residence Visa for Work Purposes.

Legal Pathways to Employment.

1. Temporary Stay Visa (Visto de Estada Temporária).

This visa allows Brazilians to live and work in Portugal for up to 12 months. It is suitable for seasonal or project-based jobs, such as in tourism or construction. It requires a signed work contract or promise of employment and proof of accommodation.

Key Requirements:

• Valid passport.
• Employment contract from a Portuguese employer.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Health insurance.
• No criminal record.

Jon Purizhansky emphasizes the importance of employer transparency during this process: “Many applicants are unaware of their legal rights or end up in jobs that don’t match their qualifications. At Joblio, we require employers to disclose full employment terms before the migration process begins. This builds trust and prevents abuse.”

2. Residence Visa for Subordinate Work (Visto de Residência para Trabalho Subordinado).

This is a longer-term visa for individuals with a confirmed job offer in Portugal. It typically leads to a residence permit and can be renewed. After five years, workers may apply for permanent residency or citizenship under Portugal’s immigration law.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step for Brazilians.

1. Secure a Job Offer:

 The process begins with obtaining a written job contract from a Portuguese employer. The employer must also declare the job vacancy to the Portuguese Employment and Vocational Training Institute (IEFP).

2. Apply at the Portuguese Consulate in Brazil:

 The visa application must be submitted to the Portuguese consulate serving the applicant’s home region. It includes providing biometric data and attending an interview.

3. SEF Appointment (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras):

 Once in Portugal, the worker must schedule an appointment with SEF to finalize their residence permit.

4. Integration & Tax Registration:

 After arrival, workers must register with the tax authority (Autoridade Tributária), get a Social Security number, and enroll in the national health service.

Jon Purizhansky comments:“This process, while comprehensive, is navigable with the right support. That’s why we work with employers and municipalities to ensure every newcomer receives help with housing, documentation, and orientation. Integration doesn’t end at the border.”

Portuguese-Brazilian Agreements: Easing Mobility.

Portugal and Brazil have longstanding bilateral agreements that ease the mobility process. For example:

• Equal Rights Treaty (Estatuto de Igualdade): Brazilians legally residing in Portugal for more than one year may apply for equal rights, which grant access to public services and labor protections.
• CPLP Mobility Agreement: Signed in 2021, this Community of Portuguese Language Countries agreement simplifies migration procedures among member states.

The Ethical Dimension of Labor Migration.

Legal migration is about protecting human rights. Informal employment has left many Brazilian workers vulnerable to wage theft, unsafe housing, and human trafficking.

Jon Purizhansky concludes: “Ethical recruitment is a necessity. When employers invest in transparency and governments enforce legal channels, everyone benefits. Migrants thrive, businesses get committed talent, and communities stay strong.”

Joblio, under Jon’s leadership, operates recruitment and relocation programs for Brazilian workers across the EU, including in Portugal, pairing candidates with verified employers and ensuring legal compliance on both ends.

With Portugal’s economy growing and sectors like elder care, green energy, and hospitality expanding, the demand for Brazilian talent is expected to continue rising.

Brazilian workers who choose legal routes gain access to fair wages, health services, and long-term security. While Portugal benefits from a workforce that’s ready to contribute. In a world shaped by migration, building systems that empower workers rather than exploit them is the foundation of sustainable development.

Originally Posted: https://jonpurizhansky.medium.com/how-brazilians-can-obtain-a-work-visa-in-portugal-a-guide-to-legal-employment-and-integration-bc5f15d2ffab

Portugal in 2025. How Inbound Labor Migration Is Supporting Economic Resilience

Portugal is seeing a historic shift: foreign labor has become a lifeline for sectors struggling to fill vacancies and support an aging population. With systemic reforms, digital integration platforms, and evolving public sentiment, inbound migration is repositioning Portugal as a destination for talent, essential front-line professions in construction, tourism, logistics, agriculture, and healthcare.

The Scale of Foreign Workforce Growth.

• In 2023, 329,000 new residence permits were issued boosting the registered foreign population to over 1.29 million. Nearly 1.55 million by late 2024, the equivalent of 14–16% of the national population.
• The number of foreign workers in formal employment rose from roughly 166,000 in 2017 to 534,000 by 2022; by 2023 it grew further to nearly 495,000, representing a nine fold increase over the past decade.
• As of mid‑2024, foreign workers made up about 17.4% of employees, with net hiring rates for migrants significantly higher than those for Portuguese nationals, especially in agriculture, construction, hospitality, and administrative services.

Economic Contribution & Public Services.

• Migrants injected €3.65 billion into the social security system in 2024 (about 12% of total contributions), supporting around 17% of pension payouts overall.
• A recent public survey revealed that 68% of Portuguese citizens see migrants as essential for the economy, particularly in sectors where domestic labor is scarce.

Key Sectors Driving Demand.

• Construction and civil works: labor shortages persist in both Lisbon and Porto regions.
• Tourism and hospitality: foreign staff fills critical roles in Eat & Drink and hotel services, especially in Algarve and Lisbon.
• Agriculture: some rural areas, such as Odemira, rely heavily on migrant labor — foreigners comprised up to 76% of income-earning agricultural workers in 2023.
• Logistics and warehousing: demand has surged, particularly for warehouse operators and last-mile delivery personnel.
• Healthcare: over 6,000 foreign nurses and doctors work in Portugal as of 2024, helping ease staffing gaps in public and private systems.

Legal Changes and Institutional Adaptation.

• In 2023, SEF (immigration and border service) was replaced by AIMA, consolidating migration, integration, and asylum processes. Permit backlogs reaching 300,000–450,000 were extended automatically through June 2025 to avoid legal gaps.
• New migration legislation introduced a six-month job-seeker visa, removal of quotas, and a digital application portal. CPLP‑country citizens (Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, etc.) enjoy simplified residence permits, often approved within 72 hours.

“Portugal has shifted from competing in lifestyle-based recruitment to building a functioning labor supply system. Sectors like hospitality and agriculture depend on reliable workers, which demands transparency in permits, contracts, and integration support,” says Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio.

“The challenge now is to reduce under‑employment. Many foreign residents are skilled, yet end up in low‑paid or precarious roles. Good migration systems should unlock that potential,” adds Jon Purizhansky.

Public concern over perceived over-permissive migration is balanced by acknowledgement that certain industries simply cannot function without foreign labor. Cohesive inclusion programs in municipalities produce more favorable views where contact between communities is fostered.

Portugal’s demographic trajectory, declining birth rates and aging population, means that migration is more than a temporary fix. It’s a structural necessity to sustain economic growth. The migration Action Plan of 2024 outlines 41 measures to streamline permit processing, accelerate digital applications, and expand integration programming.

Challenges remain: underemployment, housing pressure, and public tensions in urban hotspots like Lisbon, where gentrification linked to remote workers and non-habitual tax residents has drawn criticism. But Portuguese authorities are seeking to balance growth and inclusion through targeted reforms and community engagement.

Jon Purizhansky notes: “Portugal must approach inbound migration as an inbound labor with all that entails in terms of rights, oversight, training, and dignity.”

Portugal’s transition is ongoing from a country of return migration and expatriate appeal to one heavily reliant on foreign labor in foundational industries. The country remains attractive for migrants, especially from CPLP nations. But retaining and raising the quality of that labor depends on integration systems that match economic ambition with social cohesion.

Originally Posted: https://jonpurizhansky.medium.com/portugal-in-2025-how-inbound-labor-migration-is-supporting-economic-resilience-a8048ae1747a

Mapping the New Workforce Diaspora in Brazil

 Brazil has long played a significant role in global labor dynamics, traditionally as a destination for workers from neighboring countries. However, in the last decade, the economic, political, and social climate has shifted the narrative. Increasingly, Brazil is emerging as a major source of outbound labor migration, with workers seeking better employment opportunities abroad amid stagnating wages, high inflation, and limited job mobility at home.

This growing trend is reshaping Brazil’s internal economy, as well as the labor landscapes of countries across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.

A Look at the Numbers.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, there are currently over 4.5 million Brazilians living outside the country, a number that has climbed steadily over the past five years. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this movement, particularly among skilled workers and younger professionals seeking more stable futures abroad.

New government data from 2024 indicates that Brazilians are increasingly migrating to Portugal, the United States, Spain, Germany, and Japan, with lesser-known destinations such as Ireland, the UAE, and the Netherlands also gaining popularity.

While historical migration was often driven by family reunification or political asylum, today’s wave is largely economic. Brazilians, especially younger professionals, are seeking foreign markets that reward their education and work experience more competitively.

Push and Pull Factors.

The causes of outbound migration from Brazil are layered. On the domestic front, a sluggish job market, inflationary pressure, and rising insecurity are pushing workers, particularly those under 40, to explore work options overseas.

“In Brazil today, you have a paradox,” explains Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio. “You have educated people willing to work, but the job market doesn’t reflect their qualifications. The mismatch is fueling outbound mobility, especially among those who are digitally fluent or have language skills.”

In destination countries, the demand for healthcare aides, engineers, agricultural laborers, and tech professionals aligns closely with Brazil’s talent pool. This demand, coupled with post-pandemic labor shortages in developed economies, has created an opening for Brazilians to integrate quickly into foreign workforces.

Who Is Leaving and Where Are They Going?

The new Brazilian migrant is often younger, more educated, and more tech-savvy than earlier generations. According to Brazil’s Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada (IPEA), nearly 40% of Brazilians leaving the country in 2023had at least a university degree, compared to 22% a decade earlier.

Many of these migrants are attracted to Portugal due to linguistic and cultural affinities. The Portuguese government has responded by expanding visa pathways and promoting credential recognition agreements, which make it easier for Brazilian professionals to enter regulated sectors.

Spain and Germany are also seeing increased migration from Brazil, particularly in the fields of logistics, hospitality, and elder care. Meanwhile, the United States remains a draw for entrepreneurs and tech specialists, especially those with dual citizenship or professional certifications.

“The profile of Brazilian migrants is changing fast,” Jon Purizhansky notes. “We’re seeing more people with specialized training, healthcare experience, or entrepreneurial backgrounds. That changes the kinds of integration services needed abroad. It changes Brazil’s own labor dynamics at home.”

Economic Implications for Brazil.

While outbound labor migration can reduce unemployment in the short term, it also creates longer-term challenges. The departure of skilled workers, commonly referred to as “brain drain,” can weaken domestic industries, especially healthcare, research, and technology.

At the same time, Brazil benefits from a growing influx of remittances. The Central Bank of Brazil reported over $4.3 billion USD in remittances received in 2023, with projections indicating steady growth in 2024 and 2025. These funds support local economies and often contribute to education, housing, and small business investment.

However, some experts warn that without structural reforms to improve working conditions, wages, and job creation, Brazil risks becoming over-reliant on outbound migration as a social and economic safety valve.

“Labor migration can be beneficial for both the origin and destination countries, but it can’t replace a functioning domestic economy,” says Jon Purizhansky. “If Brazil wants to keep its talent, it needs to invest in inclusive job creation and create an ecosystem where returning workers see real opportunities.”

New Pathways: How Brazilians Are Moving Abroad.

Recent international agreements and bilateral labor programs are making it easier for Brazilian workers to access formal employment abroad. Portugal’s newly introduced Jobseeker Visa and the EU’s push for legal labor pathways from Latin America have expanded options for Brazilian citizens.

Joblio, a platform that connects ethical employers with pre-vetted international workers, has facilitated thousands of Brazilian placements in European and Gulf labor markets. The company’s approach centers on transparency and legal compliance.

“We’ve worked with many Brazilians who are highly motivated but unfamiliar with the formal job channels abroad,” says Jon Purizhansky. “What they need is guidance. That means language training, legal orientation, and help understanding labor contracts.”

Challenges in the Journey.

Despite growing opportunities, many Brazilian migrants still face hurdles. Visa processing delays, difficulty validating educational credentials, and language barriers continue to hinder smooth transitions. Informal recruitment channels and exploitative middlemen also pose risks.

“There’s no shortcut to ethical labor migration,”Jon Purizhansky emphasizes. “It requires legal clarity, employer accountability, and pre-departure preparation. When those pieces come together, migration worksfor everyone involved.”

Outbound migration from Brazil is expected to remain strong through 2030, particularly among healthcare professionals, engineers, and trades people. Countries facing demographic decline will continue to look to Brazil’s labor force as a solution.

At the same time, Brazil must grapple with the consequences of large-scale migration. Whether this trend becomes a source of national strength or a long-term challenge will depend on domestic policy responses and the quality of migration channels being built today.

Brazil’s rising status as a labor-sending country reflects deeper shifts in both its internal economy and the global labor market. As demand grows for skilled and semi-skilled labor in Europe, North America, and Asia, Brazilian workers are increasingly filling those roles. The challenge lies in ensuring that this migration is managed with fairness, legality, and a long-term vision that serves both the individuals leaving and the country they are leaving behind.

Originally Posted: https://www.jonpurizhanskybuffalo.com/mapping-the-new-workforce-diaspora-in-brazil/

France Tech Visa. A Fresh Look at the Gateway for Global Talent

Over the past few years, France has been working hard to become one of Europe’s most welcoming places for international tech talent. The French Tech Visa, part of the broader Talent Passport initiative, is at the heart of that effort. Since its launch in 2017, this visa has helped thousands of skilled professionals, founders, and investors build their careers and businesses in France.

Today, it’s clearer than ever that the program is making a difference fueling innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening France’s reputation as a modern tech hub.

What Makes the Tech Visa Stand Out?

The visa comes in three main versions:

• For Employees: If you have a job offer from a French company recognized as “innovative,” you can qualify. As of late 2024, you need to earn at least €43,243 annually.
• For Founders: Entrepreneurs who get accepted by a certified French incubator can bring their startup projects to life here.
• For Investors: Individuals willing to invest at least €300,000 in a French business can also access this path.

All three tracks include a four-year renewable residence permit, which is a big relief. There’s no need to apply separately for work authorization. Your family can come too, and spouses are allowed to work.

The Numbers Behind the Program.

The Tech Visa isn’t a theoretical policy. It’s driving real activity on the ground. Consider these figures:

• Since 2019, visa-backed startups have created an estimated 12,400 new jobs, including about 3,100 in 2025 alone.
• Station F in Paris has become a magnet for founders, hosting more than 620 entrepreneurs using the Tech Visa.
• This year alone, Tech Visa recipients have filed around 360 patents, showing the program is a sparking innovation.
• Over 1,150 employee visas and around 400 founder visas have been issued since the program began.

These stats highlight how much momentum the visa has gathered.

A Founder’s and Employer’s Perspective.

Even with its success, the process can still feel complex. There are multiple steps, and applicants have to navigate French bureaucracy, prepare documentation, and sometimes wait weeks for appointments.

Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio, has been watching these developments closely. He explains: “Platforms like Joblio are trying to take the friction out of cross-border hiring. We want to make sure companies can access qualified professionals faster, and that candidates understand their rights and options clearly.”

For companies trying to fill critical tech positions, speed matters. Jon Purizhansky believes further simplification is inevitable: “As demand grows for engineers, data specialists, and AI talent, France will need to keep improving the process. Digital services, clear timelines, and transparency will be the next big steps.”

And beyond efficiency, Jon Purizhansky emphasizes ethics: “In any global mobility program, transparency and fairness are essential. Candidates need to feel protected and informed, not left to figure everything out alone.”

How the Application Works.

If you’re considering applying, here’s what you can expect:

• Minimum salary: For employees, €43,243 per year (for EU Blue Card, €53,836).
• Fees: Application (€99), residence card tax (€200), stamp duty (€25), and renewal (€225).
• Timeline: Many applicants report about 6–8 weeks to receive a decision, though appointments at consulates can take longer.

One frequent challenge is proving that your French company is officially recognized as innovative — something founders especially need to prepare carefully.

The Impact on France’s Tech Scene.

France has set out to become Europe’s startup capital, and this visa plays an important role. The country’s big incubators — Station F in Paris, Eura technologies in Lille, and the ecosystem around Paris-Saclay — are now thriving with founders and employees from dozens of countries.

Major tech firms are also investing heavily. Microsoft announced a €4 billion commitment to AI and cloud infrastructure, while Amazon pledged €1.2 billion for similar initiatives. The fact that these giants are expanding alongside small and midsize startups helps create a diverse landscape where talented people can find opportunities that fit their goals.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, several improvements could make the visa even more accessible:

• Reducing administrative complexity and wait times.
• Expanding English-language support across government offices.
• Helping smaller startups compete with big companies that can offer higher salaries.

Jon Purizhansky believes these changes are realistic: “We’re already seeing a shift. France wants to be a leader in responsible, modern recruitment. The next phase will be about making the process as seamless and candidate-friendly as possible.”

France’s Tech Visa has become a key asset for the country’s economy and innovation ecosystem. It offers a clear pathway for skilled professionals, founders, and investors who want to contribute to something bigger.

If you’re exploring a move to Europe, the French Tech Visa is worth serious consideration. With continued improvements and growing demand for talent, France seems committed to staying at the forefront of global innovation and making sure international professionals feel welcomed.

Originally Posted: https://jonpurizhansky.medium.com/frances-tech-visa-a-fresh-look-at-the-gateway-for-global-talent-00c12de35004

The Small Country with Big Tech Ambitions

When people talk about Europe’s rising tech hubs, Estonia almost always comes up. And for good reason. This small Baltic nation has built a reputation as one of the most digitally advanced societies on the planet. In recent years, its capital Tallinn has become a magnet for founders, tech talent, and digital nomads who want to build companies and careers without the headaches that often come with larger cities says, Jon Purizhansky.

Estonia proves that size doesn’t limit ambition. Instead, it highlights how smart policy, investment in digital infrastructure, and openness to the world can create an ecosystem where tech businesses thrive.

The Numbers behind Estonia’s Tech Boom.

Estonia’s economy might be modest in size, but its tech sector punches well above its weight.

• In 2024, the tech sector contributed over 10% of Estonia’s GDP, according to the Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs.
• The country is home to 10 unicorns — including Wise, Bolt, Pipedrive, and Veriff — making Estonia the European leader in unicorns per capita.
• The e-Residency program has attracted over 110,000 entrepreneurs from more than 180 countries, allowing them to establish EU-based businesses entirely online.
• Estonia employs around 37,000 ICT specialists, representing about 5% of its workforce — a far higher share than in most European nations.
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What Makes Estonia a Tech Talent Magnet?

There are several reasons Estonia has captured attention from startups and tech professionals across Europe and beyond:

• Seamless digital government — From registering a company to signing contracts and paying taxes, nearly all government services are online. You can start a business in Estonia in a matter of hours.
• Founder-friendly environment — Clear regulations, low red tape, and supportive public-private initiatives make it easier for startups to launch and grow.
• Access to the EU market — Companies based in Estonia enjoy full access to EU customers and partners, without the bureaucracy of larger economies.
• Talent pool + openness to international talent — Estonia actively encourages foreign professionals through streamlined work visa processes and the popular e-Residency scheme.

Estonia’s Tech Visa and e-Residency

Estonia’s Startup Visa, introduced in 2017, has become a key tool in attracting foreign founders and employees.

1. Startup Visa (for founders)

• For non-EU founders who want to build their business in Estonia.
• You must apply to the Startup Committee to have your business idea approved.
• Once approved, you can apply for a residence permit or long-term visa.
• Startup Visa (for employees)
• Enables startups to hire non-EU tech talent easily.
• Minimum salary thresholds apply, but the process is faster than standard work permits.
• e-Residency
• Allows entrepreneurs worldwide to establish and run an EU-based company without living in Estonia.
• Useful for digital nomads, freelancers, and international founders.

Insights from Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio, a hiring platform.

Jon Purizhansky has followed Estonia’s rise closely and sees it as a model for other small countries looking to compete globally: “Estonia demonstrates how technology can level the playing field. You don’t need a massive population to build a vibrant ecosystem; you need smart digital infrastructure and a clear regulatory framework.”

He also points to Estonia’s success with international hiring: “What’s striking about Estonia is how intentional they’ve been in welcoming global talent. The Startup Visa and e-Residency are the tools that really work and help businesses scale.”

Finally, Jon Purizhansky highlights the long-term opportunity: “Estonia shows that when government, business, and academia align, even a small country can create an outsized impact. That’s a lesson for regions everywhere that want to attract innovation.”

The Challenges.

Of course, no place is perfect. Some common challenges foreign founders and professionals mention about Estonia include:

• Small local market — Estonia’s population of 1.3 million means most startups think internationally from day one. This is both an opportunity and a necessity.
• Talent competition — With so many startups in a small country, hiring skilled tech workers can be competitive.
• Harsh winters — While not a business challenge, it’s something newcomers often mention!

Estonia has proven that small countries can be leaders in the digital age. Its combination of smart policies, digital services, and a welcoming stance toward international talent makes it one of Europe’s most interesting places to launch or join a tech business. For founders and professionals willing to think globally, Estonia offers speed, simplicity, and a chance to be part of an ecosystem where innovation is the norm, not the exception.

Originally Posted: hhttps://www.jonpurizhanskybuffalo.com/the-small-country-with-big-tech-ambitions/

Why Valencia Is Quietly Becoming Europe’s Most Liveable Tech Hub

 When you think of Spain’s startup scene, Barcelona usually takes the spotlight. But if you talk to people on the groundor those planning a move, you’ll hear another name come up more often lately: Valencia.

Once known mostly for oranges, beaches, and paella, Valencia is now growing into one of Europe’s most promising mid-sized tech ecosystems. It offers a rare mix of lifestyle, affordability, and business energy that’s turning heads far beyond Spain.

Let’s look at how this Mediterranean city has quietly carved out a spot on Europe’s innovation map. And why founders, developers, and remote teams are increasingly choosing it over more famous capitals.

A Mediterranean Setting That’s Hard to Beat.

Before we even get into the numbers, let’s talk about what daily life feels like in Valencia. You get 300+ days of sun a year, easy access to the beach, a bike-friendly city layout, and rent that’s still manageable (for now). It’s large enough to offer great infrastructure and services, but small enough to feel personal and relaxed.

That’s a powerful draw, especially for remote teams who no longer feel tethered to expensive hubs. The work-from-anywhere movement has made it possible to choose cities that support a life, not just a job.

By the Numbers: A Growing Ecosystem.

According to Startup Valencia, the region’s nonprofit tech network, the city is now home to 1,200+ startups, which is more than double what it had five years ago. In 2024, the sector added 6,300 new jobs, with annual growth in early-stage investment tracking at 15% year-on-year.

Some of the key sectors seeing momentum:

• Healthtech
• Climate and agritech
• Edtech
• Fintech
• AI-powered SaaS

A few names to watch:

• Jeff — A lifestyle services platform expanding across 40+ countries.
• Zeleros — Working on hyperloop transport technology.

Startup Valencia: A Local Engine.

One reason for the city’s tech momentum is its well-organized support structure. Startup Valencia functions as a bridge between entrepreneurs, investors, and institutions. It also co-organizes Valencia Digital Summit, an international event that now draws thousands of attendees from across Europe.

The city’s tech district, La Marina, is being redeveloped to serve as a modern innovation hub, housing incubators, co-working spaces, and R&D offices. All are steps from the sea.

Universities Feed the Talent Pipeline.

Valencia benefits from two major academic institutions:

• Universitat Politècnica de València
• Universitat de València

Together, they graduate thousands of engineers, data scientists, and business students each year. Many stay local, contributing to an accessible, multilingual, and internationally-minded talent pool.

Spain’s Startup Law.

In 2022, Spain passed its Startup Law, aimed at attracting entrepreneurs and remote workers. Valencia has been a key beneficiary of this push.

Some highlights of the law:

• Fast-track residency permits for founders and investors.
• A clear path for digital nomads to live and work legally in Spain.
• Improved tax incentives for early-stage companies.
• Simpler processes to register a startup online.

Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio, sees real opportunity in Spain’s approach: “Spain’s startup law removed many of the old friction points, such as residency, taxes, paperwork. And made it easier for global talent to build here. Valencia is one of the best examples of that impact.”

What About Foreigners Looking to Relocate?

The answer is simple: Valencia wants you here.In 2024, more than 27% of startup founders in the region were foreign-born, and the city has adapted to serve this audience. English is widely spoken in the tech scene. Many incubators and support services offer bilingual assistance. Visa help is available through both local agencies and Startup Valencia itself.

Jon Purizhansky believes this openness gives the city an edge:“Tech ecosystems that actively welcome outsiders tend to thrive faster. Valencia has embraced its international community rather than resist it.”

A Smart Bet for Remote Teams.

For fully remote startups, the decision to base part of the team in Valencia is becoming common. Here’s why:

• Great internet infrastructure.
• Affordable office and co-working space.
• Access to events, hackathons, and a growing VC scene.
• Good schools and healthcare for relocating families.

Jon Purizhansky sees this as the new normal: “We’re seeing entire teams decentralize. And Valencia gives them an environment where people want to stay. That reduces churn, improves productivity, and builds culture.”

Valencia won’t replace London or Berlin overnight. But it doesn’t need to. It’s building something different: a smart, steady, and sustainable ecosystem where people can build companies and enjoy their lives at the same time. If you’re a founder looking for a European base, or a tech worker dreaming of a move that doesn’t sacrifice quality of life, Valencia belongs on your shortlist.

Originally Posted: https://www.jonpurizhanskybuffalo.com/why-valencia-is-quietly-becoming-europes-most-liveable-tech-hub/