Important information about working in Europe

Are you thinking of moving to Europe in search of a job? Then these questions will be on your mind - What are the visa requirements? What jobs are in demand? What is the application process? Which is the best country to work in? We will try and answer these questions so that you will have all the important information about working in Europe before making your overseas career here.

 

What are the visa requirements?

The visa requirements in Europe are different for EU and non-EU citizens. If you belong to a country that is part of the EU, then there are no restrictions and you can work in any EU country without a work visa.  However, if you are not a citizen of any EU country, you should get a work visa to search for a job and work in any European country.

 

The other option is the EU Blue Card. This is a work permit valid in 25 EU member states. This is a work permit that allows highly qualified non-EU citizens to work here. The Blue Card was introduced to stimulate the economic development of Europe and encourage qualified professionals from other parts of the world to work in Europe and give them the freedom to move within the European Union.

 

How good are your chances to getting a job in Europe?

While there may be job opportunities in the EU, the European companies will consider your application only if they fail to find somebody within the EU to fill the vacant position. But the good news is many European countries are facing skill shortages that is forcing them to look at people from outside Europe for employment. For instance, the development of a strong digital economy has led to a shortage of qualified professionals in the software industry.

 

There are online sites where you can find out about the skill shortages in specific European countries or the skilled workers they are looking for. Based on this you can decide on your chances of landing a job with your skill sets.

 

The top jobs in Europe today are in the engineering and healthcare sectors. People with a STEM background and qualified doctors and nurses have better chances of finding a job here.

 

What is the application process?

The application process for jobs across different countries in Europe has some interesting exceptions.  For instance, instead of submitting a resume, you are expected to submit a Curriculum Vitae or CV which will contain details of your education and work experience.

 

Employers conduct interviews over Skype or in-person to select the right candidate. In case you must travel for the interview, the company bears all the expenses. Each country will have its own process and etiquette standards for the interview. The wise thing is to do your research before your interview to create the right impression.

 

Which is the best country to work in?

When it comes to working in Europe, the salaries, incentives and benefits vary between the EU member states even if the job profile is the same. For instance, the salary for a software developer in Switzerland or Denmark is much higher than the salary for a similar profile in France or Finland.

 

However, a low salary does not necessarily mean you are underpaid. You must consider the cost of living. This will include your monthly expenses for rent, groceries, travel, etc. A high salary in a country with a high cost of living means less possibility of saving money whereas you have better chances of saving money if you work in a country where the cost of living is low even if the salary is not very high.

 

Another factor to consider is the taxes you will be paying. There is no point in getting a high salary if you must pay a considerable amount in taxes. It is better to work in a country with lower taxes even if the salary is low.

 

If you are aware of the important information for working in Europe, you will be better prepared for your job search. It will be easier to find your dream job in the European country of your choice.