Whether it’s wanting a fresh start from your current job or wanting to begin your post-graduate career abroad, working in a European country can bring a huge number of advantages. But with so many destinations to choose from, what are the top 5 countries in Europe to get a job?
A job in a European country will have you working with people from different cultures and practicing different languages, whether English or another official EU language like French or German. Europe is also home to some of the world’s biggest finance centres and a host of global companies.
If you’re wondering where to move for your future career, then one of these top 5 countries in Europe to get a job could be ideal. Then, read students picks for the top countries for career prospects based on EDUopinions student reviews.
TOP countries to work in Europe in 2025: EDUopinions Picks
1. Germany
Germany offers great options for job seekers at some of Europe’s biggest companies. The country has developed a reputation for its engineering and automotive sectors, and skilled graduates will find opportunities to work at companies including BASF, Volkswagen Group, BMW and Siemens.
Living in Germany can also be affordable, with living costs in the capital Berlin lower than many other European capitals. Most recently, Germany has introduced a new Opportunity Card for skilled workers from non-EU countries, allowing you to move to Germany for one year to look for a job.
2. The Netherlands
The Netherlands has one of the highest life expectancies, good quality water and air, and a high amount of the population can speak English and German with some even speaking Spanish and French, so communication shouldn’t be too much of a problem in a job here.
Its major cities, particularly Amsterdam, have proven that despite their relatively small size, the flourishing start-ups and inventive culture are what matters. New graduates of Dutch universities can even apply for one-year work permits that enable you to look for a job in thriving industries like research, engineering, healthcare, business and teaching.
3. Spain
Known for its friendly environment and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder so many people opt to move to Spain for their careers. Between the sunshine and the buzzing cities, living and working in Spain can be an incredible opportunity, and the country ranks as the second-best expat destination in the world.
Spain has a large automotive industry and is also home to some of the major global pharmaceutical giants (e.g. GSK, Pfizer) and clothing companies (e.g. Inditex, Mango). It ranks high in Europe for overall quality of life and leisure options outside of work, leading to an overall pleasant experience of working in Spain.
4. Norway
Norway is a country that offers great intercultural experience, a flexible working culture, and incredible natural attractions. Norway’s thriving industries include petroleum and gas (Statoil), fishing, finance (Nordea) and chemicals (Norsk Hydro), so professionals with find plenty of job opportunities.
Recently, an increasing amount of business is being conducted in English, so having fluency in the language can be a benefit. Norway is one of the top 5 countries in Europe to get a job with high salaries – monthly pay for a full-time professional in Norway is an average of 52,150 NOK (approximately €4,400) before taxes. However, you’ll also have to deal with a higher cost of living than other destinations.
5. Portugal
Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, meaning that your salary will go further here than other European countries. Plus, it also ranks in the top ten expat destinations in the world, with a higher expat happiness level than the global average.
While finding a job in Portugal can be difficult because the market isn’t as advanced as in other Western European countries, there are a growing number of opportunities for professionals, particularly in high-tech industries. The country is also reporting job shortages in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare and information technology, so if you’re a graduate in these sectors, you might find a healthy market in this sunny nation.
Best Countries in Europe to Get a Job in 2024: Student Picks
To find out which countries students consider the best places in Europe to get a job, we turned to student reviews data from 2016-2024. Of countries that had at least 50 university reviews, these countries had the top three ratings for career prospects.
3. Belgium (4.21/5 Careers Rating)
Student reviewers on EDUopinions chose Belgium as the third-best country in Europe for career prospects. This country may be small, but it has an ideal location between economic stalwarts the Netherlands and France, while Brussels is a centre for jobs in hospitality, government, pharmaceuticals and STEM research.
Student Review – University of Antwerp
I loved the majority of the teaching throughout the degree, particularly the evaluations, which were simple and well-organized. The majority of lecturers were helpful and accessible for assistance when necessary. There were several opportunities to provide input on courses and the degree program, as well as frequent discussions about job prospects and options, all facilitated by a great careers team.
Student Review – Vlerick business School
I believe that it is one of the top European universities in the business area. It is very career-oriented. It is focused in the Benelux area. One bad thing is that as a business school it doesn’t offer masters in other areas and generally it doesn’t offer a bachelor’s degree.
Student Review – University of Liege
University of Liege campus culture is characterized by its vibrancy and diversity, contributing to my personal development and fostering meaningful relationships with peers. The emphasis on practical skills and professional networking has prepared me for success in my future career. Engaging with the university’s dynamic community has allowed me to cultivate leadership abilities and gain a broader worldview.
2. Ireland (4.26/5 Careers Rating)
There are plenty of reasons to study in Ireland, and the wide variety of job opportunities available is just one of them. Reviewers also consider it one of the best countries for international students in Europe, which makes sense given the the ease of speaking English in the country and the work visas on offer after you’ve graduated.
Ireland has also been given a boost since Brexit, as large corporations move their headquarters to Dublin. Companies that have since relocated include major finance companies like like Barclays and JP Morgan as well as S&P Global and Thomson Reuters.
Student Review – University of limerick
Brialliant University, the course was very interesting, very helpful professors and the international administrative office. Lots of opportunities to make international friends, attend career workshops, etc. The university campus is extremely beautiful too! Overall great experience.
Student Review – National College of Ireland
The school provides hands-on approach in courses that are taken, very career-driven and reflects the need in the present labour market. I will definitely recommend it to other people, as they provide help to international students that are new to the Irish environment.
Student Review – Dublin City University
Dublin City University has been an incredible place to study. The programs here are built around real-world applications, so it feels like everything you’re learning has a purpose beyond the classroom. The professors are engaging and bring a lot of industry experience, which makes the coursework feel relevant and practical. DCU has a strong emphasis on career readiness, with plenty of opportunities for internships and networking events. The campus has a vibrant, friendly atmosphere with students from all over, which makes it easy to get involved in societies, clubs, and student life. Studying here has given me both the knowledge and the confidence to take on whatever comes next.
1. Switzerland (4.46/5 Careers Rating)
Switzerland, like Norway, is technically not part of the EU, but it hasn’t stopped EU citizens and expats from outside the EU from dashing to this stunning country, and EDUopinions reviewers rate it the best country for career prospects in Europe. The country offers a brilliant balance combining both high earning prospects with a healthy lifestyle.
The unemployment rate in Switzerland is just 4%, representing both the number of jobs available in cities like Zurich and Basel, and the fierce competition for roles that exists in the country. However, student reviewers who have studied and got a job in Switzerland describe the country as a great place to work.
Student Review – Hotel and Tourism Management Institute (HTMI) Switzerland
I chose to study here because the school is reputable and offers the best quality when it comes to hotel and tourism management. This course is highly sought after at home in Mauritius and this gives me a higher chance to succeed in my career. The school has networks for internships and job training programs with affluent and luxurious hotels In and around Switzerland. the internships are paid and i can make an extra income as a student. Although the tuition and accommodation are high, it is already definitely paying off, it is an investment I would recommend other students to take.
Student Review – ETH Zurich
I love my university and the program. It does offer tons of opportunities for different aspects of my future career, like Job Fairs with huge companies or projects by known professors! However we do NOT have any vacation at all. Our exams are in August for the semester that ended in May. It does affect the mental health by a huge amount. Seing my friends in other universities enjoying the summer and me having study is really sad
Student Review – University of Geneva
It is true that a diploma from a Swiss university isn’t easy to get, but it is totally profitable. First, this program gives us opportunities to meet prestigious Swiss businessmen and businesswomen. Plus our professors are well-known and are the best in their domain. With a diploma from UNIGE, we have a career assured, especially if we want to work in Switzerland (one of the countries with the highest wages), but also internationally.
Our university is located in the international city of Geneva, we can enjoy the little but pleasant student life with students from all around the world.
Conclusion
So, that was our picks of the top 5 countries in Europe to get a job, as well as the top picks from EDUopinions student reviewers.
If you’re considering a move abroad for your career, it’s important to find out as much information about your target countries as possible, including work visa eligibility, if applicable. Additionally, compare living costs in different destinations to see what kind of lifestyle you’ll be able to maintain while living abroad.
Editor’s note: This article was first published on the 21st of February 2018. It was updated in November 2024 for current readers.
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