Working as a foreign lawyer in another country is challenging. Countries where foreign lawyers can practice are diverse, and you need to make the decision and choose the best for you based on your career opportunities, salary expectations, etc. Our guide will help you find the perfect destination by telling you the top 10 best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer. Keep reading to explore the best options and discover where you can thrive both professionally and personally.
Can I Move to Another Country as a Lawyer?
Yes, you can move to another country as a lawyer, but the process is likely to be complex. Each country has its own immigration regulations, and you may need to take additional exams or obtain specific certifications. Finding the best country for foreign lawyers requires researching and understanding the requirements of your desired destination.
Top 10 Best Countries to Immigrate to as a Lawyer
Let’s find out the best place to work as an international lawyer:
Canada
Canada has a vibrant legal job market, with approximately 5,000 to 7,000 openings for foreign lawyers annually. The primary immigration methods include the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs, and work permits. To practice law in Canada, foreign lawyers must pass the NCA assessment and the bar exam, a process that typically takes 12-18 months. The average salary ranges from CAD 72,000 to CAD 140,000 annually. What makes Canada one of the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer is its high quality of life, strong work-life balance, and multicultural environment.
Australia
Australia is one of the best places for lawyers to work. Why? It has a steady demand for lawyers, with around 3,000 to 5,000 job openings for foreign lawyers each year. Australian lawyer immigration methods include the Skilled Independent Visa, Employer Nomination Scheme, and Temporary Skill Shortage Visa. Foreign lawyers must have their qualifications assessed by the Australian Legal Admissions Board and complete a practical legal training course, a process that takes about a year. The average salary for lawyers in Australia ranges from AUD 65,000 to AUD 150,000 annually. Australia has excellent job opportunities, a straightforward qualification process, and a high standard of living, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne.
Germany
Germany’s legal market offers around 2,000 to 4,000 positions for foreign lawyers annually, making it one of the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer. The primary lawyer immigration methods include the EU Blue Card, Job Seeker Visa, and German Residence Permit for Employment. To practice law in Germany, foreign lawyers need to pass the German state examination and may need to demonstrate proficiency in German, a process that can take up to 2 years. The average salary for lawyers in Germany is from EUR 50,000 to EUR 120,000 annually. Germany offers robust career opportunities, a strong economy, and high living standards. However, you need proficiency in German to enhance integration and professional growth.
United Kingdom
The UK, one of the best places to live as a lawyer, offers about 4,000 to 6,000 job opportunities for foreign lawyers each year. Key lawyer immigration methods include the Skilled Worker Visa, Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa, and Intra-company Transfer Visa. To practice law in the UK, foreigners must pass the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS) exam, which typically takes 6-12 months. The average salary for lawyers in the UK ranges from GBP 45,000 to GBP 130,000 annually. What makes the UK one of the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer is its rich legal tradition, various career paths, competitive salaries, and abundant opportunities in both private practice and corporate sectors.
New Zealand
New Zealand’s legal market offers about 1,000 to 2,000 jobs for foreign lawyers annually. Lawyer immigration methods include the Skilled Migrant Category, Work to Residence, and Essential Skills Work Visa. To practice law in New Zealand, foreigners must have their qualifications checked by the New Zealand Council of Legal Education and complete practical legal training, a process that usually takes 6-12 months. The average salary for lawyers in New Zealand is from NZD 55,000 to NZD 120,000 annually. New Zealand is one of the best countries for doing law because of its stunning landscapes, high demand for skilled professionals, and its work-life balance.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has a booming legal market with about 1,500 to 3,000 job openings for foreign lawyers annually. Key lawyer immigration methods include the Employment Visa, Investor Visa, and Golden Visa. To practice law in the UAE, foreigners must have their qualifications recognized and obtain a license from the local legal authority, a process that typically takes 6-12 months. The average salary ranges from AED 200,000 to AED 700,000 annually. What makes the UAE one of the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer is its high salaries, tax-free income, and luxurious lifestyle.
Singapore
Singapore is a financial hub with a strong legal market. It offers about 2,000 to 4,000 job opportunities for foreign lawyers each year. Lawyer immigration methods include the Employment Pass, S Pass, and EntrePass. To work as a lawyer, foreigners must have their qualifications recognized by the Singapore Institute of Legal Education and may need to pass the Singapore Bar Examinations. This process takes typically 6-12 months. The average salary ranges from SGD 80,000 to SGD 180,000 annually. Singapore has a strategic location, a vibrant economy, and a high demand for international legal expertise, making it an excellent destination for lawyers.
Switzerland
Switzerland has a high quality of life and excellent salaries for legal professionals. The number of job openings for foreign lawyers ranges from approximately 1,000 to 2,000 jobs annually. Key lawyer immigration methods include the Swiss Work Permit, EU/EFTA Permit, and Skilled Worker Visa. Foreign lawyers must pass the Swiss Bar Examination and may need to demonstrate proficiency in one of the country’s official languages, a process that can take up to 2 years. The average salary ranges from CHF 100,000 to CHF 200,000 annually. Switzerland’s multilingual environment, robust economy, and high living standards make it one of the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is an international center with a strong demand for skilled lawyers. This country offers around 1,500 to 3,000 job opportunities annually. Lawyer immigration methods include the General Employment Policy, Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals, and Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. Foreign lawyers must pass the Overseas Lawyers Qualification Examination, a process that typically takes 6-12 months. The average salary is from HKD 600,000 to HKD 1,800,000 annually. Hong Kong’s dynamic environment, competitive salaries, and significant international legal market make it one of the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer.
Ireland
Ireland’s growing economy and favorable lawyer immigration policies create approximately 1,000 to 2,000 jobs for foreign lawyers each year. Immigration methods include the Critical Skills Employment Permit, General Employment Permit, and Irish Residence Permit. To practice law, foreign lawyers must have their qualifications recognized by the Law Society of Ireland. They may need to pass the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test, a process that usually takes 6-12 months. The average salary starts from EUR 45,000 to EUR 120,000 annually. Ireland’s friendly atmosphere, numerous opportunities in both corporate and public sectors, and a high quality of life make it one of the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer.
Read the Visa Library articles to learn about immigrating as foreign lawyers.
Which Country is Best for Lawyers to Live?
When it comes to the best country to be a lawyer in, the UAE or Switzerland might be your best bet.
The UAE offers high salaries and tax-free income. Legal professionals can expect top-tier compensation packages. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have numerous opportunities in both international and local firms. The country’s modern infrastructure, luxury lifestyle, strategic location as a global business hub, and vibrant, fast-paced work environment add to its appeal.
On the other hand, Switzerland offers excellent pay for legal professionals, with average salaries among the highest in the world. The country’s robust economy, strong financial sector, high demand for legal expertise, high standards of living, and pristine landscapes contribute to these attractive compensation packages.
Lawyer Salaries By Country
Where Do the Highest Paid Lawyers Live?
Lawyers in the United States, Switzerland, and the UAE are among the highest-paid in the world. These countries offer lucrative salaries, especially in major cities and international firms.
The 10 Best Highest-Paying Countries for Lawyers
Let’s look at lawyer salaries by country and the types of lawyers makes the most money:
United States
- Average Salary: $145,000
- Lowest: $61,000
- Highest: $250,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $120,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $140,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $110,000
Switzerland
- Average Salary: $130,000
- Lowest: $70,000
- Highest: $230,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $150,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $160,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $120,000
United Arab Emirates
- Average Salary: $120,000
- Lowest: $60,000
- Highest: $210,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $130,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $140,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $100,000
Hong Kong
- Average Salary: $115,000
- Lowest: $55,000
- Highest: $200,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $125,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $135,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $95,000
Germany
- Average Salary: $105,000
- Lowest: $50,000
- Highest: $180,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $115,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $125,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $85,000
United Kingdom
- Average Salary: $100,000
- Lowest: $45,000
- Highest: $170,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $110,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $120,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $80,000
Australia
- Average Salary: $95,000
- Lowest: $48,000
- Highest: $160,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $105,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $115,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $75,000
Canada
- Average Salary: $90,000
- Lowest: $50,000
- Highest: $150,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $100,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $110,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $70,000
Singapore
- Average Salary: $85,000
- Lowest: $45,000
- Highest: $140,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $95,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $105,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $65,000
Ireland
- Average Salary: $80,000
- Lowest: $40,000
- Highest: $130,000
- Job-related Salaries:
- Corporate Lawyer: $90,000
- Intellectual Property Lawyer: $100,000
- Criminal Lawyer: $60,000
What Type of Lawyer Makes the Most Money in the World?
Corporate lawyers specialize in mergers and acquisitions, making their expertise essential in large, high-stakes transactions. Therefore, they tend to earn the highest salaries:
- United States: $170,000
- Switzerland: $160,000
- United Arab Emirates: $150,000
- Hong Kong: $145,000
- Germany: $140,000
- United Kingdom: $135,000
- Australia: $130,000
- Canada: $125,000
- Singapore: $120,000
- Ireland: $115,000
What Country Has the Highest Demand for Lawyers?
Countries experiencing rapid growth and expanding legal markets, such as Canada, Australia, and the UAE, are where lawyers are most in demand:
- Canada: Needs approximately 5,000 to 7,000 lawyers annually.
- Australia: Needs around 3,000 to 5,000 lawyers each year.
- United Arab Emirates: Needs about 1,500 to 3,000 lawyers annually.
Which Lawyer is Most in Demand?
The most in-demand lawyers include corporate, intellectual property, and immigration lawyers. Corporate lawyers are in demand because of their expertise in handling business transactions, mergers, and compliance. Intellectual property lawyers are in demand because they protect and manage valuable intellectual assets in an innovation-driven world. Immigration lawyers are in demand because they learn how to handle immigration cases as lawyers and navigate complex processes and cases.
What are the Best Cities for Lawyers in the World?
Among the best cities for lawyers, New York offers top corporate law opportunities and high salaries as financial capital. London has diverse practice areas and competitive pay. On the other hand, Tokyo demands corporate and intellectual property expertise with high salaries.
Similarly, Sydney provides opportunities in corporate law and commercial litigation. Singapore’s thriving market in corporate law and arbitration is attractive due to its strategic location. Hong Kong offers high salaries and a strong international presence. Finally, Dubai’s growing market in corporate, construction, and real estate law appeals to tax-free income and a luxurious lifestyle.
Conclusion
Immigrant lawyers always aim to find new, exciting opportunities and rewarding careers. However, choosing among the best countries to immigrate to as a lawyer can be challenging. Consider your professional goals, lifestyle preferences, and the legal requirements of each country. With the right information and preparation, you can find the perfect place to build your future.
If you have any questions about immigrating as a foreign lawyer, you can use our free consultation services.
FAQs
What is the best country to immigrate to as an American?
Canada is often considered the best country for American lawyers due to its proximity, similar legal system, and welcoming immigration policies.
How to make a difference as an immigration lawyer?
You can significantly impact individuals’ lives by helping them navigate complex immigration laws, advocating for their rights, and ensuring fair treatment.
Is becoming an immigration lawyer worth it?
Yes, it can be highly rewarding, both personally and professionally. The demand for immigration lawyers is growing, offering stable and meaningful career opportunities.
Can US attorneys work overseas?
Yes, but depending on the country, they may need to meet additional requirements, such as obtaining local qualifications or passing specific exams.
