Are you considering taking a gap year job abroad? Now that you’ve graduated you have an endless amount of options to choose from. Maybe the whole university, job, and same old routine thing sounds a little dull to you right now? Working in Europe in your gap year might be the perfect idea for you then. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the world while getting paid. You’ll experience different cultures, make unforgettable memories, and capture some incredible moments for your Instagram and TikTok feed.

If you, like many other young people who have just finished education, are eager to travel and do something special and purposeful during your adventure abroad, we have listed the best options and reasons below. Make sure to check out Year Out Group. They also promote amazing experiences abroad like working, volunteering, or doing adventure programmes. This will ensure that your gap year abroad becomes worthwhile.

1. Boost your CV: Get a gap year job abroad in your native language

Imagine yourself landing a gap year job in sun-soaked Spain, Greece, Portugal, Malta, or Cyprus, or exploring e.g. Latvia, the Netherlands, or Czech Republic? A gap year job can be your gateway to new experiences, personal growth, and a life full of fun and admirable stories. And the best part is that language barriers won’t hold you back. We can easily help you find jobs in your native language all over Europe and even some destinations worldwide.

You’ll build resilience, push your boundaries, and gain a broader perspective of the world. All this will make you stand out on the job market in the future. So forget textbooks for now and get real life experience, because this gap year adventure involves learning new skills with a job abroad.

Europe’s vibrant big cities offer a long list of cool job opportunities across diverse fields. It’s not just about the stunning scenery (although, let’s be honest, it’s a perk). You’ll gain invaluable international work experience, working alongside European professionals in your chosen field:

You can master people skills and human intelligence by working in customer service for Netflix, while basking in the Greek sun.
You can create cool campaigns and marketing strategies as a Junior Campaign & Marketing Specialist in Barcelona.
You can troubleshoot tech issues for a prestigious client as a Technical Customer Support Specialist in Brno.
Or, picture yourself finding good strategies and potential clients as a Sales Representative for the world’s biggest search engine in Lisbon.

The list of jobs and destinations is long, and you can check out all of our available jobs and destinations HERE. The networking opportunities are endless, which opens doors to potential future employers, who value your international experience and multilingual skills.

2. Personal growth from living abroad

A gap year job abroad won’t be all sunshine and cafes with perfect croissants. Culture shock can hit you like a strong espresso – different customs, social norms, and maybe even unexpected plumbing situations can take some getting used to. You might miss home and the familiar faces. Unexpected challenges, like language barriers or visa hiccups can also pop up. But hey, that’s part of the adventure, right? Problem-solving becomes your superpower, and it will be an invaluable asset and skill for the rest of your life, both personally and professionally.

For many people who has just started their gap year, it might also be the first time living away from your parents. This can be a big change with a lot of tasks and chores that you’re not used to. But don’t worry, if you just take one step at a time, you’ll have no issue adjusting and becoming independent. Of course you can choose to find a room in a shared flat, if you wish to have other people around you in general, or at least as a start. It’s also an easy way to start networking. It’s your gap year abroad and you are in charge.

3. Most of the gap year jobs don’t require any work experience

In most gap year jobs, you don’t need any prior work experience in the field, because the company ensures that you get the necessary training beforehand. All you need is courage and willpower, as well as speaking and understanding basic English – and of course your mother tongue.

“I decided to apply for a gap year job in Athens via Job Squad, as a customer service employee for a world-renowned brand in a large company. The training was intense, but once I started the job, everything just fell into place along the way. The good thing about the customer service industry is that you always end the work day full of energy that you can use to explore your new country, meet friends for dinner, go to the gym or whatever you can think of” (Candidate story)

Some people say that gap year jobs, e.g. working in customer support, is boring and too easy. While it’s not the most intriguing job, we politely disagree with all the prejudice. We all have to start our career somewhere, and getting international work experience is top tier material on your CV. And honestly, the fact that the job and tasks related to it are easy, is exactly what’s most important and crucial to having a fun experience of working and living abroad. Because you will always have the energy to do all the fun and adventurous stuff when you’re off work.

4. Earn money while travelling with a gap year job abroad

Many young people work hard in part of their gap year to earn money in order to travel for an extended amount of time. But how about combining travelling and earning money, without working your ass off? How does working normal hours, and then heading straight to the beach for a cocktail and pizza with your friends, and enjoying the sunset sound to you? A gap year job abroad is the perfect combination.

Of course you won’t become a millionaire overnight. Salaries for gap year jobs in Europe can vary depending on location, job type, and your experience. Some jobs abroad might come with free accommodation and meals, but for others, budgeting like a pro is key. Research the average cost of living in your chosen destination to avoid sticker shock. Remember, a cosy apartment in Copenhagen might not have the same amenities as a flat in Portugal.

You can always ask any recruiter at Job Squad about prices and expected salaries. We have people living all over Europe and other places in the world, so we have first-hand knowledge and experience from a job abroad.

5. Become a local in the countries you usually choose for vacation

Have you ever been thinking (or saying out loud): “I think that I could actually live here” whenever you are on vacation? Well good news, you can! And it only takes a few clicks to make your dreams come true and extend your weekly vacations to six months or even for good.

Personally, I have never felt happier since moving to a warmer climate. Of course it’s not the same living in a place as being on vacation. But when comparing the pros and cons, I personally feel more uplifted and having a higher quality in my daily life when living in Greece versus Denmark. I will never consider looking back and it’s been more than two years since I moved to Athens.

And it’s super cool becoming a local in destinations where people visit and dream of living on a day to day basis. Because guess what? The Greek islands and monuments do not get less impressive and beautiful by living there. On the contrary, they are even more accessible and you get to experience it week after week after week – whenever you’re off work. Imagine having sun, warm weather, mountains, and crystal clear water as a “default setting” – instead of rain and wind as in Denmark. That’s something I value highly every single day.

Also, get ready for some hilarious misunderstandings and language fumbles along the way. Sometimes things will go wrong. Get over it easily with a good laugh and be open to what might happen. The best trips often start with unplanned detours.

6. Unexpected memories and life lessons

If you crave new experiences, personal growth, and a chance to step outside your comfort zone, then this is absolutely for you. You’ll develop new skills, maybe learn a new language (or at least some fun hand gestures and basics), and gain independence as you navigate unfamiliar territory. Stay open-minded, go with the flow, and embrace the unexpected. The best adventures often lie beyond the planned things.

A gap year job abroad offers a great mix of travel on weekends, cultural exchange, and personal growth. Just remember, the salary might not match your wildest dreams (especially in popular tourist destinations), but the cost of living in the south is also lower. So picture yourself picking out the gelato of the day on your lunch break, heading to the beach with a pizza and beer after work in southern Europe, or exploring hidden bars in Budapest in the evening – priceless day to day moments, right?

So, pack your bags, unleash your inner explorer, and get ready for an unforgettable gap year job and work adventure in Europe. Remember, the real magic and self development lies in the experiences you collect, not just the pictures you post.

7. Plant seeds for promotions and an international career

Maybe you’re not just looking for a quick adventure, but the beginning of a whole new life abroad. Our higher positions in various European countries might be a perfect fit after a gap year job abroad. These jobs offer a chance to truly immerse yourself in a new culture, build a career within Europe, and maybe even find your forever home. Research visa requirements, cost of living, and job markets in your chosen European country for a smooth transition – we’re ready to help you with all of this and more to start your gap year job adventure easily.

Remember, the perfect job in Europe is out there. Consider your goals, personality, and budget to pick the path that leads to the most unforgettable experience. With a little planning and a lot of open-mindedness, you’ll be well on your way to an adventure that will transform you, inspire you, and leave you with stories that’ll make everyone back home jealous (in a good way, of course). So, pack your bags, unleash your inner explorer, and get ready to write the next chapter of your life with your gap year abroad.

Is a job abroad the right adventure for me?

Home is where the heart is, and sometimes that means being close to family and close friends. A gap year abroad can be an incredible experience for building independence, but it can also be isolating if you’re not eager to be social. If the concept and idea to go abroad excites you, we strongly encourage you to go for it.

We, at Job Squad, all have first hand experience and believe that it’s the best thing you can do to grow personally and professionally. Getting to travel while earning money, who doesn’t want that? But if the thought of being away from your loved ones for an extended period tugs at your heartstrings, listen to that feeling.

Do you thrive on routine and find comfort in the familiar? While Europe has its fair share of cosy cafes and predictable public transport systems, there will be surprises. Imagine navigating a busy farmers market in Greece where everything is slightly chaotic and with people shouting in a language you don’t quite understand. Or figuring out a new laundry system in your shared apartment in Spain. If these scenarios send shivers down your spine, a gap year job abroad might be a little too much of a good thing.

Here’s the bottom line: This gap year is your own adventure. Don’t feel pressured to follow some pre-ordained path just because everyone else seems to be doing it. Be honest with yourself about your personality, your needs, and your comfort level. If Europe seems a bit too daunting right now, there are countless other ways to explore the world and gain valuable life experiences.

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7 best reasons to take a gap year job abroad