Working in Europe as an Expat
Thinking about making a move to Europe? For many expats, the idea of living in Europe is a lifelong dream. But if you intend to work while you are there, you have got to know what to expect. You cannot just move there and expect to find the job of your dreams.
The job market in Europe is quite competitive. If you do not have any prospects or marketable skills, it will be tough to find a job. But if you are smart, skilled, educated, and hardworking, you can do it.
Working in Europe can be exciting and provide a variety of new opportunities you never thought were possible. But you have got to know what you are getting into before you go.
Keep reading for our list of the 5 best jobs in Europe for international citizens.
Related: The 5 Best Countries for Foreigners Working Abroad
Jobs for English Speakers in Europe
Did you know that there are 24 “official languages” in the European Union? That may sound like a lot, but it does not end there. There are dozens of other languages that are spoken regularly throughout the western and eastern countries of Europe.
Yet, with all of that diversity, English prevails. No, it is not the official language in every part of the world. But it is the language you need to know if you want to get a high-paying job in an English-speaking country.
And that need opens the door for native English speakers to capitalize on something they already know.
English language teachers are often in demand, but you need to be able to do more than speak the language. It is a competitive field, so it is best if you are bilingual in Spanish, French, Russian, German, or other languages that are widely spoken in Europe. Being bilingual will only increase your chances of getting a job teaching English.
While the job does not require any advanced degrees, it does require some specialized skills. If you are considering becoming an English teacher in Europe, now is the time to take the first step. Put yourself on a path to success by earning your Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate.
Computer Science Jobs in Europe for Digital Nomads
With a degree in computer science, there is a pretty good chance you will be able to find work anywhere in the world. Software development and information technology jobs are in demand across the globe.
For expats looking to advance their IT careers, Germany is the European hub of engineering and innovation. It is a perfect choice if you have years of experience and advanced technology degrees. For more information, check out our list of the best cities in Germany for work.
Computer science jobs are also ideal for anyone who wants to work remotely. As an expat in a new country, many IT jobs allow you the opportunity to work from home (or work from anywhere in the world).
Healthcare Careers in Europe for Expats
Many European countries have excellent healthcare systems, so jobs for doctors and nurses can be easy to find. Compared to doctors that work in the US, doctors in Europe have more opportunities to provide their patients with the care they need. In many countries, they do not have to deal with the bureaucracy of hospital systems and health insurance providers.
Depending on how long you plan to stay in Europe, you may want to go through a placement agency to find a job that is right for you. By going through an agency, you can reap even greater rewards, such as a car and temporary housing to get you through your first few weeks.
Medical News Today has a great article on working abroad as a medical professional if you’re looking for more information.
Engineering Jobs in Europe for Expats
Like computer science experts and healthcare professionals, engineers are also in demand. With a degree and experience in engineering, you can enjoy good job security in Europe, specifically in major cities.
Europe is home to some of the best research facilities in the world. From structural engineering to chemical engineering, there are lots of opportunities to be found.
In Germany, the city of Frankfurt boasts the most impressive amount of engineers in the European Union. If you prefer France, check out the city of Lyon. For expats that prefer the culture and lifestyle of Spain, the city of Bilbao is home to over 125 companies in the engineering sector.
Digital Marketing Jobs in Europe for International Citizens
Many of the careers to make this list require specific skills, especially STEM skills. Digital marketing is not one of those jobs.
While experience is necessary, what will make or break you as a successful digital marketer is your work ethic. You can enter the field with a less-specific set of skills than required to get started in IT, healthcare, or engineering. But you will need to be on top of your game to be truly successful in the industry.
One of the best parts about working as a digital marketer in Europe is that, in many cases, you can keep your job in America or your home country. Digital marketing is a perfect job for anyone looking to live their life as a digital nomad. Like web development, you can do your job from almost anywhere – as long as you have a strong internet connection.
Working in Europe Summary
Before you decide to move there, do your research to find what is the best city in Europe for your move.
If you have a STEM background, you should have no problem finding work as an engineer or a computer science professional. For those with a background in healthcare, you should be able to secure employment as a doctor or a nurse.
Do you have a background in marketing? Consider digital marketing that you can do from any city you like. And if you have a passion for education, teaching online classes or working as an ESL teacher is a great option.
Before you make any rash decisions, check with your current employer to see if they are open to the idea of you working overseas. If they are not, look on European job boards to help you narrow down your search and focus on what cities have the most opportunities for you. Check out our partner Europe Language Jobs for opportunities to work in Europe.
And remember – once you have found a place that seems like a good fit, spend some time researching the local Visa requirements to make sure you can get in.
Related:
- European Health Insurance Options
- Health, Safety, and Travel insurance Advice for Visitors to Europe
- 11 Best Cities to Work in Germany
