Embarking on a career in a foreign country presents unique challenges and opportunities.
Moving to another region for work within the European Union (EU) has become increasingly common. In 2022, about 7.1 million EU citizens aged 15 and overworked in other EU countries where they did not have citizenship. This mobility is facilitated by the freedom of movement within the EU, allowing citizens to take up employment in all member states. Germany emerged as a particularly popular destination, with 2.8 million EU foreigners employed there in 2022. Other significant destination countries included Spain, Italy, and France. The report can be found here.
The number of EU citizens living and working in another EU country has more than doubled over the past decade. As this report states, 17 million EU citizens were living outside their own country, up from 8 million in 2007. Among these, 9.5 million were economically active. This increase also includes 2 million citizens who have a daily cross-border commute. Despite this growth, these figures are still considered low for a continent with a population of over 512 million inhabitants.
These statistics highlight the dynamic nature of labour mobility within the EU, reflecting the increasing trend of EU citizens moving across borders for work opportunities.
To navigate this journey successfully, it’s crucial to focus on key areas such as cultural acclimatisation, mastering the local language, understanding legal and documentation requirements, building a robust professional network and adapting to different workplace environments. Additionally, financial planning, accessing healthcare, developing social connections, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and preparing for the mental and emotional aspects of living abroad are essential.
Addressing these aspects can significantly ease the transition, making working abroad a more enriching and fulfilling experience.
Cultural awareness: Educate yourself about the local culture, customs and social norms of the country you are moving to. This will help you integrate more smoothly into your new environment.
Language skills: Learning the local language, even at a basic level, can significantly ease your daily life and work interactions. It helps in building relationships too.
Legal and documentation requirements: Ensure all your paperwork, such as visas, work permits and legal requirements, is in order. Understand the tax system and any social security benefits you’re entitled to.
Professional network building: Establish a local professional network. Join professional groups, attend networking events and connect with colleagues and industry peers in your new location.
Adaptability and flexibility: Be open to new experiences and ways of working. Adaptability is key to overcoming challenges in a new work environment.
Financial planning: Understand the cost of living in the new country and plan your finances accordingly. This includes housing, health insurance, daily expenses and savings.
Healthcare access: Know how the healthcare system works in your new country and ensure you have the necessary health coverage.
Social connections: Try to build a social support system. Engage with the community, join clubs or groups that align with your interests and participate in local activities.
Work-life balance: Be mindful of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This can be challenging in a new environment, where work cultures may differ significantly.
Mental and emotional preparation: Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for the move. It can be stressful and overwhelming, so consider seeking support from friends, family or professionals.
Working abroad can be an enriching experience. It requires patience, effort and an open mind to fully embrace the new opportunities and experiences it offers.
