Moving abroad to find a job can be a challenge. Before starting on that journey, you will have a lot of questions about what it is really like, how to manage stress, where to go, how to be the best at your job, and if working abroad is really worth it? But don’t worry – we are here to help you all the way. We’ll tell you everything there is to know about finding a job abroad, and what to prepare for if you decide to make the decision to get a job abroad. Follow these steps to make sure working abroad will become the best adventure of your life.

Step 1. Decide to find work abroad

There are many reasons why people choose to change environments and switch to working in a different country. We have listed some key benefits of why choosing a job abroad is great for you:

Career development: International work experience looks amazing on your CV, and is highly respected by employers. If you can change and adapt to different environments, maybe use multiple languages, and do your job well while being away from home, then you are already 10 steps ahead of your competition.
New opportunities: Some job opportunities might not be available for you in your home country – if you haven’t found something that you love at home so far, maybe it’s time to check if anything more interesting awaits abroad?
Expand your network: You are not the only one who will move on this adventure. A lot of people are deciding to get a job abroad nowadays. If they are professionals in the same field as you, you will have a chance to interact with them and make sure your network grows. And who knows, maybe it will also grant you new best friends for life?
Personal growth: Working abroad provides you with a unique set of skills that you can’t get in any other way. You will become resilient, confident, independent and very knowledgeable about the world, and different cultures.
Financial benefits: If you budget well, there is a high chance that you might get an opportunity to live a better, more exciting, and satisfied life, while still managing to make some savings or extra pocket money that you will be able to use to explore your new home.

So, now that you are convinced that working abroad is for you, the next step would be:

Step 2. Pick the right destination for working abroad

Depending on what you prefer and what your plans are for the future, you will have to choose where you would like to go. Our website offers several jobs abroad in Europe, so if these places seem like a good fit for you, don’t hesitate to contact us. To help you make the best choice, consider these five important factors:

How welcome to expats are the people of this country? – You should decide to move to a place where you will feel welcomed by locals, or where there already is an international community. Feeling welcome plays a big role in avoiding feeling lonely on your journey.
Is English a commonly used language there? – It is good to move to a location where you will be able not only to communicate but also to resolve issues and paperwork even if you don’t speak the native language. Living as an expat in countries where speaking English is popular is generally easier.
Is the culture of this country similar to mine? – It’s great to explore other countries and cultures, but it is also important that you feel comfortable around people where you live. Try to look for countries where you can find at least some similarities between your desired lifestyle and the lifestyle of the people that live there.
What climate do I prefer? – Make sure that you are prepared for all the seasons and weather conditions of the country that you are moving to. You have to be prepared for colder, darker winters in Northern parts of Europe or hot, sweaty summers in the South.
How far is this location from my hometown? – If this is your first time moving for a job abroad it might not be the best idea to move across the globe. Choose a place that you can take a short flight to – and where friends and family can easily visit you as well. It can make the transition easier.

When you’ve considered these questions, you can start searching for countries that best fit you and your needs. Below we give you our top 5 picks for welcoming, budget-friendly countries to start working abroad in and why we think they might be a good option for you.

5 best countries to work abroad in Europe

1. Bulgaria

Some people say life is slower and more laidback in Bulgaria, but at the same time you can easily find many interesting things to do. Bulgaria is an attractive destination for those seeking budget living while benefiting from cultural and historical surroundings. It has a relatively low cost of living compared to many other European countries. Bulgaria has a big variety of outdoor activities and especially the beautiful Black Sea coastline and the mountainous regions are incredible places to visit.

2. Portugal

Portugal has reasonably low costs of living, a high quality of life, and an exciting culture. The country has a Mediterranean climate with wonderful beaches. Portugal’s healthcare and education systems are well-developed, and the cost of living is lower than in other Western European countries. If you choose to work in Portugal, you will have endless options for exciting activities in your free time. Furthermore, Portugal is one of the most popular places for digital nomads in Europe.

3. Spain

Spain is the right fit if you dream of working in a warmer climate and love to eat local food and be part of a fun and cool culture. The Spaniards are welcoming, open, and full of passion. Spain’s healthcare system is ranked among the best in Europe with accessible and affordable care. Additionally, Spain has a strong economy with a growing job market, particularly in sectors such as technology, tourism, and renewable energy. Spain’s work-life balance is also highly valued, with a culture that encourages free time.

4. Poland

Poland is a country of music festivals, pierogi and of course vodka. Rent in cities like Kraków, Wrocław, and Gdańsk is significantly lower and even the capital, Warsaw, is cheaper than many other European capitals. Public transportation is efficient and cheap, which makes it easier to get around the country without a car. While salaries may be lower than in Western Europe, you will not be lacking money to live a good life in Poland, especially given the lower everyday expenses. Poland has good job opportunities in IT, finance, and customer service, attracting expats who can enjoy a high quality of life without excessive costs.

5. Greece

Greece has some of the most amazing beaches and islands, light houses, and lots of mountain landscapes. You have to go there if you dream of living and working under the sun. Housing is particularly cheap outside of Athens, with many smaller cities and islands with cheaper living options. With a job in Greece, you can combine work with island hopping, mountain hiking, and fantastic Greek food.

Step 3. Find work abroad that fits you best

Now that the location is decided, your next step would be to find the perfect job. First, here are the three most important, helpful questions to ask yourself before choosing the right job:

What are my strengths and skills? – Make sure that you choose a job that not only sounds fun but also allows you to use your talents. Are you good with people, or are you good with numbers? Write down a few things that you are really great at, and a few skills that you know you want to improve, and look for a job that allows you to use both.
What kind of lifestyle do I like the most? – Think about whether you prefer a job that includes a lot of physical activities and interactions, or maybe more quiet, individual task-based work. How many hours a day are you able to work? Which type of job would make you feel good about your life and not drained after a long day?
What kind of work environment do I like? – Some people thrive in places where there are a lot of changes, tasks and fast dynamics, while some prefer slower, more relaxed positions. Think about the culture of the workplace, who you would want to work with, and what type of office or setup would be ideal for your lifestyle.

Building a career is a journey, not a sprint. Say yes, learn lots, and gather experiences that make you stand out. Good things take time – and effort. Take it one step at a time, follow what makes you happy, and you’ll find a job you love. Linda – Job Squad Founder, International recruiter

Best jobs for working abroad

Once you know a little bit about yourself, it is good to get a second opinion and seek advice from someone with experience. Our recruiters are ready to chat about finding the perfect match for you. If you haven’t decided on what career path you want to follow just yet, here are some good and high-demand jobs abroad in Europe that will be a smart choice, especially if you know different languages.

Hospitality and tourism industry: Hotels, resorts, and travel companies frequently seek employees, particularly in tourist-heavy destinations such as Mediterranean countries. Roles range from hotel management and tour guiding to bartending and event coordination, making it a great option for those looking for seasonal or long-term opportunities.
Customer service and sales representatives: With the rise of multinational companies and global e-commerce, businesses need multilingual customer service representatives and sales professionals to handle international clients. Many European countries provide job opportunities where you will be speaking in your native language with customers from your home country. You will most often be required to have a decent level of English in order to go through training at your new job. Furthermore, it’s a plus if you have strong communication skills.
Delivery Specialist: These employees are in charge of clarifying the customers’ requests via phone, mail, and the client’s social media. It is a dynamic role that includes tasks like handling inquiries about delivery issues, questions about product and content, reimbursement and refund, as well as payment methods.
Online Game Presenter: A game presenter’s role is to deliver engaging live gaming experiences for online casino players. This is a job that include a lot of fun and human interaction through a screen. An online casino host is presenting online casino games such as blackjack, while interacting with players through live streams and chat. Key skills include on-camera confidence, customer service, and adaptability to unexpected situations.

Step 4. Move to your new country to start your job abroad

Now that you have your destination and you found a job abroad in Europe, it is important to know how you can understand the place you’ve moved to, how to optimise your life, and how to manage formalities.

Every city and its rules are always unique, but there are certain universal steps that you need to take before and when you decide to change your residence:

Visa and work permit: Make sure that you have the correct visa and work permit for your destination country. Start this process as soon as possible. Research the specific requirements and gather all necessary documents. Applications can take time, and delays can derail your plans. Official government websites and advice from our recruiters will always be the most trusted source of information. Job Squad will help you through this process!
Accommodation: Before you arrive, research housing options and consider temporary accommodation for your first few weeks. Facebook, expat forums, and local real estate agents are your best friends. Think about aspects like transport, safety, and proximity to for example supermarkets and restaurants. Always arrange a short visit before your move to view potential properties.
Money: Open a local bank account as soon as possible to manage your finances efficiently. It’s also a good idea to inform your current bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any disruptions. Consider gathering some savings. It is advised to bring two/three months rent and living costs with you.
Health and insurance: Research healthcare options in your new home. Make sure you have the right health insurance coverage, whether through your employer or a private provider. Nothing is as important as your health. Gather your medical records and prescriptions in case you need to see a doctor abroad.

Work is of course very important, but it is even more important to realise that it’s just a part of your life. When working abroad, it is just as important to find ways to enjoy your life through relationships, health and hobbies. You will also function better at work when your life is in balance. Here are some tips to maintain that balance:

Step 5. Find work-life balance while working abroad

Plan your free time: A workation approach, where work and leisure are combined, can be effective. Take advantage of public holidays and long weekends to explore. You can also check websites like Meetup or Internations to connect with fellow expats and join events.
Set up a good remote workstation: If you work fully remote technology is your greatest ally to balance work and travel. Equip yourself with a lightweight laptop, reliable noise-canceling headphones, and any other tools you need for productivity.
Stay flexible: Some unexpected challenges will arise, whether it’s work-related delays, travel disruptions, or cultural differences. Approaching these situations with patience and a problem-solving attitude will help you.

Over time, you’ll develop a rhythm that allows you to thrive both professionally and personally while exploring your destination as an expat.

Ready to work abroad?

Getting used to a new country takes time, but with the right preparation, working abroad can be one of the best experiences of your life. At Job Squad, you can always rely on the help and guidance of our recruiters. They will help you with every step of the way – and the entire process is completely free with no hidden agendas or costs. Don’t wait any longer and start your adventure of working abroad today. Contact us or check out the latest jobs abroad.

Your Account

How to find work abroad in 5 steps