In recent years, a significant increase has been observed in the number of professionals seeking employment across European borders. With its strong labour protections, diverse economies, and high quality of life, Europe has become a preferred destination for skilled and semi-skilled workers from around the world. For those planning to relocate, identifying the best European countries for foreign workers has become an essential first step in the job search.
At Career Pack, we have guided numerous job seekers through the process of selecting the right country, preparing compliant job applications, and adapting to new work cultures. Based on economic trends, visa accessibility, and employment demand, we have curated a list of the most promising European destinations for international talent.
Germany: Europe’s industrial powerhouse
Germany has consistently been ranked among the best European countries for foreign workers, largely due to its robust economy and well-established infrastructure. A high demand for engineers, IT specialists, healthcare professionals, and skilled tradespeople has created ample opportunities for non-EU applicants.
Moreover, the introduction of the German Skilled Immigration Act has made it easier for qualified foreign workers to obtain residence permits. Within Career Pack, resources specific to German CV standards and Blue Card eligibility have been included to assist applicants targeting this destination.
Netherlands: innovation and international business
The Netherlands has gained a reputation for being open, progressive, and highly internationalised. Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven have become magnets for global talent, especially in sectors such as technology, logistics, and finance.
Foreigners are frequently hired by companies operating in English-speaking environments, and visa sponsorship is common for in-demand roles. For this reason, the Netherlands remains one of the best European countries for foreign workers, particularly for those who may not yet be fluent in Dutch.
Ireland: English-speaking access to the EU
As one of the few EU countries where English is the primary language, Ireland holds a unique appeal for global professionals. Multinational companies in Dublin and Cork, including major tech firms and pharmaceutical giants, offer frequent employment opportunities to non-EU candidates.
Through Career Pack, users can access Irish CV templates and guidelines for navigating work permit applications. Because of its language accessibility and economic openness, Ireland continues to rank among the best European countries for foreign workers.
Sweden: a model of work-life balance
Sweden offers more than just beautiful landscapes and progressive values. It has been widely recognised for its commitment to employee welfare, innovation, and equality in the workplace. Foreign professionals in healthcare, IT, and green technology are particularly sought after.
Although the Swedish language may present a barrier initially, many roles are available in English, especially within international companies. For those prioritising both career development and quality of life, Sweden stands out among the best European countries for foreign workers.
Portugal: emerging opportunities with lifestyle appeal
Portugal has emerged as a favourable destination for remote workers, tech entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. In addition to a relatively low cost of living, the Portuguese government has introduced residency pathways such as the Tech Visa and D7 Visa to attract foreign talent.
While salaries may be lower compared to northern Europe, the overall lifestyle benefits make Portugal an appealing option. Because of its openness to foreign professionals and growing startup scene, Portugal is now being counted among the best European countries for foreign workers.
Factors to consider when choosing a country
While the countries listed above offer strong advantages, the best choice will depend on a range of personal and professional factors. These include:
- Visa accessibility and legal requirements
- Industry-specific demand
- Language expectations
- Cost of living and taxation
- Long-term settlement options
Within Career Pack, each of these factors has been addressed in detail across our country-specific resources. This enables users to make informed decisions when identifying the best European countries for foreign workers based on their individual goals.
How Career Pack supports your decision
Making the right move requires more than just choosing a location. Application materials must be localised, legal processes must be understood, and cultural norms must be respected. That’s why Career Pack offers a comprehensive digital toolkit designed to support foreign workers at every step.
From CV templates aligned with national standards to relocation checklists and visa guides, we ensure that each user is fully prepared to enter their chosen market. Whether Germany’s engineering sector is being pursued or the creative industries in the Netherlands, the Career Pack toolkit equips users with the resources needed to compete.
Conclusion
Across Europe, opportunities for foreign professionals continue to grow. With clear policies, international industries, and demand for skilled labour, multiple countries can be considered ideal destinations. However, not all markets are equal, and proper preparation is essential.
By focusing on the best European countries for foreign workers, job seekers can streamline their efforts and increase their chances of success. At Career Pack, we are committed to guiding individuals on this path — from selecting the right country to securing that all-important first role abroad.