A jobseeker’s guide to working across Europe

Thinking about working abroad? If so, you are part of a wider European trend. In 2024, about 10 million working-age EU citizens were living and working in another EU Member State. Whether you’re considering something short-term, a seasonal job or a permanent move, working abroad is more accessible than ever.

Why move?

Gone are the days when moving abroad was only a last resort or for the very young. Today, people move for better wages, career growth, lifestyle changes, or simply because their skills are in demand elsewhere. The latest data shows that while young people (20–34) still make up a large group, older workers (40+) are increasingly making the leap too – often with established careers and higher education. Young or old, there’s something for everyone, if you’re ready to take the first step.

Type of work abroad

Not all moves are permanent. In fact, short-term postings are on the rise. Around 3.6 million EU workers were sent abroad by their employers in 2024, with assignments lasting about a month on average. This could be your foot in the door – a chance to test a new country without committing long term.

Then there’s the classic cross-border commuter: living in one country, working in another. Nearly 2 million EU citizens do this, many with permanent contracts. If you live near a border, this could mean higher salaries just a train ride away.

Seasonal work is another option, especially in agriculture, tourism or food processing. While fewer than a million take this route yearly, many return to the same employers or countries for decades. Some even settle permanently.

Here’s how EURES can support you

Navigating a new country’s job market can feel daunting – that’s where EURES comes in. With a network of over 900 EURES Advisers, EURES is your go-to resource for everything from job searching to personalised career advice.

EURES also offers the Targeted Mobility Scheme, a service providing financial support for moving abroad, language courses and other costs linked to working abroad.

Besides this, EURES organises the European Job Days (EJDs), connecting you with employers through on-site and online recruitment events. Campaigns such as ‘Join the European Job Days’ highlight these services and raise awareness of how EURES can support your career journey.

Practical tips

Research: Use the EURES portal to check labour market trends and living conditions in your target country.
Network: Visit the EJDs platform to discover upcoming events.
Prepare: Tailor your CV to local standards and brush up on language skills.
Stay flexible: Consider short-term postings or seasonal work as a stepping stone. Many long-term movers started this way.

Work abroad isn’t just a trend – it’s a stable, growing part of the EU labour market. Whether you’re chasing higher wages, new experiences or career advancement, you don’t have to limit yourself geographically. With EURES, your next big opportunity could be just across the border.

Interested in reading the report on labour mobility in the EU? Follow this link. Find out how an Italian content specialist found her dream job in Munich, or how a Lithuanian manager started a new life in Norway – all with EURES support.

Related links:

‘Join the European Job Days’

Targeted Mobility Scheme

European Job Days

Annual report on intra-EU labour mobility – 2025 edition

Content professional finds dream job in Munich

Former manager moves from Lithuania to Norway for new challenges

Read more:

European Job Days

Find EURES Advisers

Living and working conditions in EURES countries