Can I move freely within the EU?

The first tip is to check if your concerns are actually correct. Common questions about moving and working abroad are about visas, healthcare, and retirement benefits. One of the biggest advantages of the EU is the fundamental principle of free movement of workers. In short, EU citizens are entitled to:

• Look for a job in another EU country   
• Work there without needing a work permit
• Stay there even after their employment has ended
• Enjoy equal treatment with nationals in access to employment, working conditions and all other social and tax advantages

This principle makes moving within the EU much easier than many people think. There is no need for visas or work permits, and you enjoy the same rights and conditions as nationals. The right to free movement in the EU makes your expat dream much easier!

Who can help me find a job abroad?

Did you know that companies like Apple, Google, and Netflix are outsourcing many of their teams to centralized hubs in Southern Europe?

In these hubs, you can find German, Dutch and French teams (to name a few) that are working with Customer Support, Sales and Marketing.

However, if you browse Google’s career site, you will probably not find any German-speaking marketing positions in Lisbon or Barcelona, for example.

So, how can you discover these niche job opportunities? By connecting with recruitment companies that specialize in these roles! They can help you find a job in your native language that fits both your skills and dream destination.

One such recruitment company is Workwide. They offer you a big selection of jobs in Europe and you are supported by a personal recruiter.

If you are a German speaker, you can find German jobs abroad here. Workwide collaborates with companies in countries like Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands that are looking for German-speaking colleagues.

If you are looking for Dutch jobs abroad, Workwide has you covered as well. If you are looking for jobs in Customer Service, Sales and Marketing in Southern Europe, make sure to visit their site.

Their services are always free for job seekers, and they’ll support you every step of the way to secure your dream job abroad.

Where do I find jobs in the EU as a skilled worker?

There is a widespread shortage of skilled workers in the EU. If you are educated and/or have experience in fields like IT, engineering, or healthcare, you are in high demand.

You can basically pick and choose between countries and employers if you are interested in going abroad. For most of these roles, English is the primary working language, so you don’t need to worry too much about learning a new language before relocating.

LinkedIn is a great resource for finding jobs across Europe as employers from all over the world are gathered here.

Does the employer help with relocation?

Moving abroad is relatively simple from an administrative viewpoint. But there are still challenges along the way. For example, finding accommodation, integrating into the new culture, etc.

Many companies experienced in hiring international talent have established processes or even dedicated relocation teams to assist new employees. Look for employers that offer relocation support—it can make a big difference!

Relocation packages may include a variety of benefits, such as reimbursed moving expenses, free initial housing, language courses, assistance in finding a job for your partner, and many other perks.

These benefits can make your move and transition to your new home country much smoother! Here are some tips on how to negotiate your relocation package.

Do I need to learn a new language before moving?

This article has presented job opportunities where you do not need to speak a new language. You can manage in English or even your native language in the office setting. However, it is highly recommended to at least learn the basics before moving. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel are a fun and easy way to get you started.

Imagine having to ask the cashier in the supermarket for a bag. If you are living in a country with a low average level of English this can become very awkward for everybody involved. Having a few standard phrases in reserve is a real advantage.

If you are hoping to get to know the culture in an authentic way, you will need to learn the language. The best way is to start talking to locals as soon as possible. A scary thought but it is definitively worth going outside your comfort zone.

Summary

Basically, anyone can move abroad with a job! You just need to identify your most valuable asset. It can be your education or work experience, but it might also be your native language skills.

Living abroad is a life-changing experience. It allows you to explore new cultures, meet incredible people, and advance your career. Think about it!

1. Understand the cultural differences in the interview process

Each country has its own work culture. Cultural differences can influence, for example, hierarchy and cooperation. This starts with applying for a job. For example, in some cultures, it is customary to talk directly about your achievements, while others value modesty.

An expert of CVwizard indicates: “It is important to be aware of cultural nuances in the country where you are applying. Directness is not appreciated everywhere. By reading up on the culture of the country where you are applying, you will avoid awkward moments during the application process.”

Suppose you want to apply for a job in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, for example. Then it is important to understand the cultural differences between the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Netherlands has a culture of openness and directness. This is also reflected in the application process, where directness is appreciated.

In the UAE, respect for hierarchy plays an important role. Applicants should communicate formally and with respect, but directness is usually better avoided. Showing respect for local and cultural customs can significantly increase your chances of success.

This means that in addition to translating your CV, you should also localize it by emphasizing or omitting certain parts.

 

2. Locate your resume and cover letter

Tailoring your CV and cover letter to the standard of the country you are applying to is essential. This goes further than translating your CV. Always include relevant international experiences, language skills, and knowledge of local markets. In addition, localization also includes adapting your CV and motivation letter to cultural expectations as described in tip 1.

Also, consider choosing a format that is common locally. If applicable, you can implement local technical terminology. Localizing your resume strengthens your position as a job candidate because it shows that you are making an effort to adapt to local norms, values ​​and work culture. After locating your resume, you can share it with the recruiter or company in question.

Next, you should research your work visa options, starting with the visa requirements in the country where you are applying.

 

3. Research visa requirements and sponsorship

A work visa is often a requirement to work abroad. The rules for this vary greatly per country and can be complex. Therefore, start researching the visa requirements early.

In some cases, your new employer can help you apply for your work visa or even act as a sponsor. Consider this when applying and looking for companies known for supporting international employees.

It’s also helpful to understand the timelines for obtaining a visa so you have realistic expectations about when you can start working. Finally, consider any restrictions or requirements that apply to your specific situation, such as moving your family, your professional experience and educational qualifications.

 

4. Learn about the local job market and industry

A crucial step in applying for a job abroad is to thoroughly research the industry you are interested in within the country you want to go to.

It’s important to get a clear picture of current market trends, the key players and the demand for the skills you have to offer. This knowledge is invaluable for strengthening your application and conducting interviews with potential employers. It also gives you a realistic picture of your options and opportunities in the local labor market.

Even if the main language in the company is English, knowledge of the local language can increase your chances of success and ease your integration into the team and local culture. Consider language courses or practice with educational language applications to improve your language skills.

By informing yourself, you can better assess where your opportunities lie and how you can position yourself as the ideal candidate.

 

5. Use your international network

A reference always works to your advantage but can be extra valuable for a job application abroad. It shows that you are familiar with the local culture and that you have an affinity with the country of interest.

Therefore, use your international network to find your dream job abroad. You can use LinkedIn for this.

Check whether you have contacts at companies in the country where you want to work. If you don’t have one, you can get to know valuable contacts through international conferences, webinars and online forums.

 

Go for your dream job abroad

Finding a job abroad requires preparation, research and adaptability. By applying the above tips, you will increase your chances of finding a successful international career.

You can also choose to use specialized recruitment agencies. Many agencies focus on placing candidates in international roles. These agencies offer valuable insights and support in your search for a job abroad. They understand the local work culture and have closer contact with the local population.

Remember that every country is unique. What works in one country may not work in another. Therefore, stay flexible, be open to learning and be willing to adapt to a new culture and working environment.

 

Understanding the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, officially part of the broader Startup Law, is a significant initiative aimed at attracting non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain while working remotely. This visa is specifically designed to meet the needs of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees by providing them with a legal framework to reside in Spain for extended periods.

The Digital Nomad Visa offers a practical solution for remote professionals who want to experience the Spanish lifestyle while maintaining their employment with companies outside of Spain. This visa represents a shift in immigration policy, recognizing the contributions and economic potential of digital nomads to the local economy. By offering this visa, Spain aims to attract a diverse pool of talent, fostering an environment of innovation and creativity.

The initiative aligns with Spain’s broader goals of becoming a hub for startups and tech-savvy professionals, contributing to the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

 

Requirements for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

To qualify for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

1. Remote Employment: Applicants must work for a company based outside Spain or be self-employed with clients primarily outside Spain. Additionally, only 20% of their total income can come from within Spain.
2. Proof of Employment: If employed, applicants need to provide a contract of employment and evidence that their work can be performed remotely. Freelancers must show contracts or commissions from clients outside Spain. In both cases, the digital nomad must have had a working relationship with their client or employer for at least three months prior to the application.
3. Minimum Income: There is a minimum income threshold, which is €2,646 per month, or €31,752 annually, as of 2024. This ensures that applicants can support themselves while living in Spain.
4. Background Check: A clean criminal record is essential. Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate from their home country and any country that have lived in, in the last five years.
5. Health Insurance: Full-coverage private health insurance in Spain is mandatory.

 

Steps to Obtain the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain

The process of obtaining the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps.

Start by gathering all necessary documents, including proof of employment, income statements, health insurance, and accommodation details.

You can apply from either your home country or Spain while on a student visa. If you’re applying from your home country, you’ll need to visit the Spanish consulate there.

You’ll receive a one-year visa, renewable for a three-year residence permit. However, if you apply from Spain, you’ll directly receive a three-year residence permit.

The Digital Nomad Visa follows a fast-track process and a positive administrative silence. This means that you should have your resolution within 20 days. If you don’t have it by then, you can assume the resolution is positive.

With a positive resolution for the three-year residence permit, you will have to go to a police station in Spain to have your fingerprints taken for the physical card. The card should be ready to pick up in about a month.

To be able to renew your digital nomad visa, you will need to become a tax resident in Spain, which means staying in the country for more than 183 days.

 

Benefits of Spain’s Remote Work Visa

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa offers several significant benefits. Firstly, it grants legal residency in Spain, allowing digital nomads to live and work without worrying about visa overstay issues.

The visa also expands travel opportunities, as residency in Spain allows digital nomads to travel freely within the Schengen zone and explore many European countries with ease.

Furthermore, this visa offers favorable tax conditions. For example, if you are a digital nomad working for a company based outside of Spain, you can apply for the Beckham Law tax regime. Instead of paying a progressive income tax rate of up to 45%, you will pay a flat rate of 24%.

In addition, major cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia have vibrant communities and coworking spaces, making them ideal for remote workers. Being part of Spain’s growing community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs offers numerous networking opportunities and the potential for professional growth. By the way, a good way to stay connected while working as a digital nomad in Spain is using eSIM.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa provides remote workers with professional flexibility and an enriching lifestyle. By meeting the criteria and applying, digital nomads can live in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries, enjoying sunny beaches, historic cities, and vibrant cultural scenes.

 

Agree on a Realistic Start Date

Once you have accepted a job, it’s crucial to agree on a start date that gives you enough time to prepare for your move. This is especially important for those moving long distances. Consider how much notice you are required to give to your current employer. You can then begin making preparations as soon as possible.

 

Research the Location

Once you’ve got your start date confirmed, you can start to research the area you are moving to. This is a hugely significant part of the job relocation process. You can get an idea of what public transport, restaurants and social life are like. You may be moving to a location that has a lot of museums or places with plenty of scenery on offer.

If the country’s primary language is not English, you should endeavour to learn the language. Learning the basics before you arrive will give you a headstart and allow you to carry out your new role efficiently.

 

Renew or Apply for Your Passport

Check the date on your passport to ensure that it is valid for your date of travel. Some countries require a minimum of 6 months before the expiry of passports. Most countries in the EU require at least 3 months. You must apply for a new passport if your passport does not fit the criteria. Bear in mind that passports take around 3 weeks on average to arrive.

 

Apply for a Visa

You’ll need to apply for the correct visa for your stay. The visas and permits you will need are dependent on where you are moving. It’s important to note that employers will likely arrange your visa application for you, especially if it is a sponsor-related visa.

Most countries split their working visas into 2 categories: Skilled Workers and Seasonal Workers. Tech roles fall under the Skilled Worker category as they require specialist training.

 

Within Europe

Those relocating to Europe will have to apply for a permanent stay visa which is different for each country.

For example, those moving to Spain will need to apply for a Long-Stay Visa (Visado Nacional) and those moving to Norway will need a Residence Permit.

 

Outside Europe

Those moving further afield may need to provide even more documentation compared to European countries. Popular countries for UK workers outside Europe include Australia and the USA. Your applications must be submitted and approved well in advance of your departure date.

The visa required for those moving to Australia is dependent on your new employer. They may submit an application for the Employer Nomination Scheme Visa which means that they will sponsor your work in the country. Those unable to be sponsored can apply for a Skilled Nomination Visa. This visa requires a points-based test to be passed as well as a thorough skills assessment.

Those moving to the USA must have a job offer in place before submitting their application. Temporary employees moving for an established period of time may apply for a Nonimmigrant Work Visa. However, in most cases, those moving to America for the foreseeable will need to apply for Employment Immigration. These visas require employer sponsorship and are dependent on your qualifications and experience.

 

Make Copies of Important Documents

As you make various arrangements for your move, you will find that your pile of paperwork will stack up. Always create a copy of your important documents to have on hand as a precaution. This includes copies of your visa application, shipping inventory, and insurance documents. This is essential when encountering time-sensitive details such as the shipment of goods.

 

Healthcare and Insurance

The UK is home to a national healthcare system. Not all countries have this in place, therefore you will need to take out some form of healthcare insurance. This will cover you in the unfortunate event of an accident.

Most countries require expats to have healthcare insurance as part of the application process. Those bringing their car or other motorised vehicle will also need to take out vehicle insurance. It is illegal to drive a car without a driving licence and insurance in place.

 

Find a New Property

Once you’ve carried out your research, you can begin to look for accommodation. A lot of tech companies operate in metropolitan cities. It’s important to note that properties in city centres are likely to be much higher than the national average. Make sure you factor in your salary and current savings to find a property that meets your needs and remains within your budget.

You can choose whether you want to pay more in rent and live closer to your work or live further afield for a cheaper price and take a daily commute.

 

Contact Your Bank

You must contact your current bank to let them know about your move and departure date. Once this is done, you should arrange to open a new account in your new destination. Having this in place before you start your new job means that you can provide your new employer with updated payment information.

 

Arrange the Shipment of Goods

You’ll need to arrange for your goods to be shipped to your new destination. The best way to do this is by hiring an international removal company that can offer expert advice. This includes providing suggestions on the best shipping option for your needs. They will also ensure that your belongings arrive on time.

Whether you are moving lots of goods or embarking on a smaller move, leaving it in the hands of a professional company can alleviate the stress. Using comparison sites can be a great way of finding the best company for you while also saving you money on your removal costs.

 

In Conclusion

Being as organised as possible for your move will ensure the experience is as stress-free and seamless as possible. Give yourself enough time to get your arrangements in place. Setting a realistic starting date means you can settle into your new home at your own pace. From having your visas in place to saying your goodbyes, this will guarantee the best start to your new chapter.

 

How to Move to Slovenia for Work in Tech

A visa is not necessarily required to immigrate to Slovenia, but it all depends on where you’re coming from. A Slovenia work visa may be needed to gain entry and establish residence.

 

Moving to Slovenia as an EU Citizen

If you’re a citizen of one of the European Union Member States or a citizen of one of the member states of the European Economic Area (EEA), you do not need a visa or residence permit to enter Slovenia. However, you will need a valid identity card or valid passport.

As of 2023, these rules apply to citizens of:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Republic of Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland (EEA)
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein (EEA)
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway (EEA)
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Spain
• Sweden

If you are not a citizen of one of these countries, you’ll need to obtain a visa before moving to Slovenia.

 

Moving to Slovenia as a Non-EU Citizen

To visit or immigrate to Slovenia as a non-EU citizen, you’ll need to obtain a visa by submitting an application explaining the reason for your visit and by providing a few identifying documents. A long-stay work visa will allow you to stay in Slovenia for an extended period while you work.

After getting your visa, you’ll also need to apply for a temporary residence permit. You can do this before arriving in Slovenia at the same embassy where you apply for your visa or you can do it on arrival at the nearest administrative unit.

Temporary residence permits last for a year before you’ll need to ask for an extension. You’ll need to stay in Slovenia for five years before you can apply for a permanent residence permit.

 

Can I Get a Blue Card to Move to Slovenia?

The EU Blue Card program is available to non-EU/non-EEA nationals and aims to simplify the immigration process. In effect, a Blue Card is a residence permit. If you qualify for a Blue Card, it will put you on the fast track toward permanent residence and citizenship in Slovenia (or any of the participating EU countries).

Being a Blue Card holder also provides countless benefits outside of Slovenia. In many ways, it gives you the privileges of an EU citizen, including free movement throughout the EU (no additional visas required) along with full educational, economic, cultural, human, and health rights.

To qualify for a Blue Card, you must fulfill all of the following criteria:

• Have a valid work contract or binding job offer for highly qualified employment that will last at least 12 months; and
• Meet the minimum salary threshold in Slovenia; and
• Present documents proving that the relevant higher professional qualifications have been met; and
• Present a valid travel document, an application for a visa or a visa and a valid residence permit or a national long-term visa; and
• Present proof of sickness insurance; and
• Prove you do not pose a threat to public policy in the view of the Member State.

In Slovenia, a Blue Card is valid for two years and can be extended to a maximum of three years. The application process involves a thorough review of you and your skills, so set aside 4-6 months and prepare to pay an application fee of €140.

While entering Slovenia without a Blue Card means you’re 5 years away from permanent residence, a Blue Card could allow you to become a permanent resident in as little as 21 months if you achieve B1 level knowledge of the Slovenian language (or 33 months otherwise).

 

Cost of Living in Slovenia

Excluding rent, a single person’s estimated cost of living in Slovenia is €791. A one-bedroom apartment ranges from €484 to €605 per month on average. A three-bedroom apartment is about twice as much.

The capital of Ljubljana has the most amenities and it’s naturally the country’s economic and cultural hub, meaning many job opportunities can be found there — but it also has a higher cost of living.

In Ljubljana, the average cost of living is €803 for a single person without rent. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center starts at €700 a month. With some good searching, you may be able to find a two-bedroom apartment for around €1,000 a month, but it won’t be downtown. Utilities range from €250 in the summer to €350 in the winter for a couple or small family.

 

Average Salary in Slovenia for Tech Jobs

When searching for jobs in Slovenia, you may be surprised by the average salary, which will look quite low compared to some other EU countries.

For a software engineer, the average salary is just €34,774 annually, which works out to around €2,897 monthly. As with any country, salaries vary across the market and it is possible to find a good offer if you spend time looking.

Alternatively, you can work remotely for a non-local company and try to get a residence permit by opening a company of your own.

 

Taxes in Slovenia

There are a few different types of taxes in Slovenia and you’ll need to sort them out before you arrive to ensure you’re budgeting based on your actual take-home pay:

• Personal Income Tax: You will need to pay taxes on all the money you earn in Slovenia. This is a progressive tax with brackets of 16%, 27%, 34%, 39%, and 50%, depending on your income. If you enter your salary and resident status into this calculator, it’ll estimate your personal income tax obligation.
• Social Security Contributions: Both employers and employees must contribute to the Social Security fund. 16.1% will be paid by your employer and 22.1% will be paid by you as an employee.
• Capital Gains Tax: If you sell a home or other asset, or inherit certain property in Slovenia, you may have to pay Capital Gains Tax, which ranges from 0% to 25% depending on the situation.
• Value Added Tax (VAT): All EU countries now charge VAT at a standard rate of 22%. There is also a reduced rate of 9.5% and a few goods and services are excluded entirely. In most cases, the prices you see when shopping in Slovenia will be “VAT inclusive,” meaning this tax has already been factored into the display price.
• Property Tax: There is no property tax in Slovenia.
• Payroll Tax: The payroll tax was abolished in 2009.

 

Renting an Apartment in Slovenia

All sorts of accommodations are available in Slovenia, ranging from shared accommodations and spare rooms to apartments and houses.

In your search, know that many people do not want to report the income they receive from renting out a property. This may mean they try to lease to you without an official contract — and you should be wary of these situations. You may also experience challenges due to language barriers, especially in more rural areas.

Most apartments that aren’t being leased “under the table” are handled by real estate agencies, which means they likely have an English-speaking representative. However, these agencies often require at least one month’s rent upon signing and may ask for other deposits as well.

As far as where to look for housing, Nepremicnine.net is the largest and most popular real estate site in Slovenia. You can also find a partially translated version in English.

 

Healthcare in Slovenia

Slovenia has a social health insurance system offering universal coverage to all residents and a broad range of benefits. It costs around 30 euros a month for an adult and children’s healthcare is fully covered. There are co-pays for healthcare services, so some Slovenians choose to take out private health insurance to cover these co-payments.

Until you become a resident of Slovenia, you’ll likely need to purchase a private expert health insurance plan. This is a type of international medical insurance policy that will cover both emergencies and routine care while you’re in Slovenia or elsewhere.

When it comes to the quality of care, Slovenia’s healthcare system is considered good and may even offer state-of-the-art equipment and services, especially in Ljubljana.

 

Language

Locals speak Slovenian, which is a Slavic language that can be challenging for non-Slavic speakers to learn. However, Slovenian is rarely spoken outside of the country and most locals have learned to speak English. German and Italian are also widely spoken.

Coffee Culture

Slovenia is renowned for its thriving coffee culture, notably the increasing abundance of specialty coffee shops and roasters.

International Tech Companies in Slovenia

Some of the largest international tech companies in Slovenia include:

• Infomediji is a virtual reality streaming company with a team of more than 100 skilled engineers and developers. They are rapidly growing and need specialists across the fields of data analytics, machine learning, UX/UI, and more.
• Outfit7 is a game development company with 20 hits and counting, entertaining billions of people around the world.
• SportRadar is a sports technology company that offers immersive experiences for sports enthusiasts and bettors. They’re partnered with DraftKings, FanDuel, the NBA, and countless other major organizations.
• Hisense Europe has a more than 70-year-long reputation providing home appliances to Slovenia and other nations. They have a growing R&D center and recently invested 45 million euros into a new factory that will produce side-by-side refrigerators.
• Outbrain makes over 344 billion recommendations each month to people around the world. Its algorithms are embedded into countless social media networks, determining what shows up in user feeds. The company is a powerhouse that continues to innovate.
• Comtrade Group is home to a number of innovative IT businesses across the area of smartphones, consumer electronics, software, development, gaming, and more. They have won multiple awards for their sustainability efforts and they have global partners like Microsoft helping them continue to grow.
• Endava has over 12,000 employees around the world working to provide solutions to companies in the payments, financial services, telecommunications, media, technology, consumer products, retail, mobility, and healthcare sectors. They’re one of the largest tech companies in Slovenia and have a growing world-class engineering team.

 

While Slovenia has relatively low salaries compared to places like Germany, it has many benefits, including a high quality of living, great work-life balance, free medical insurance, a good education system, a convenient location, and many opportunities for remote work.

If you want to start searching for job opportunities abroad, let Relocate.me help you find the perfect position.

The Crucial Role of Employee Support in International Relocation

Employee relocation is a complex process, laden with challenges ranging from logistical hurdles to cultural adaptation. For HR professionals, providing comprehensive support throughout this process is critical. Effective relocation support can significantly impact an employee’s ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment, which could ultimately affect their productivity, satisfaction, and overall morale.

 

Planning Ahead: The Pre-Relocation Checklist

A successful relocation begins with meticulous pre-relocation planning. This includes ensuring all visa and immigration documentation are in order, making housing arrangements, and addressing financial adjustments like cost-of-living and taxation. Early and thorough planning can alleviate much of the stress associated with moving countries, setting a positive tone for the employee’s experience. For businesses, this can often mean compliance with local legislation if the business doesn’t have an entity set up at the destination company. Often, services like Employer of Record (EOR) can be very helpful.

 

Bridging Cultural Gaps: Orientation and Training

Cultural orientation and targeted training are indispensable tools in helping employees adjust to their new surroundings. Understanding local customs, workplace etiquette, and social norms is crucial when settling in a new country. Tailored training sessions that address these areas can help mitigate the cultural shock and speed up the acclimation process.

 

Speaking the Language: Providing Linguistic Support

Language barriers can pose significant challenges to relocated employees. Offering language training or immersion programs not only equips employees with essential communication skills but also demonstrates an employer’s investment in their long-term success and well-being. Various tech companies like Meta, provide linguistic support through external partners, to both relocating employees and also their families moving with them.

 

Family First: Comprehensive Family Support Services

Relocation isn’t just an individual endeavour; it often involves an employee’s family. Providing spouse or partner employment assistance, educational counselling for children, and community integration support can ease the transition for the entire family, reducing stress and facilitating a smoother adjustment to the new locale.

 

Health Is Wealth: Ensuring Adequate Healthcare and Insurance

Access to quality healthcare and appropriate insurance coverage is a paramount concern for relocating employees. Facilitating healthcare system enrollment or offering comprehensive international health insurance plans are essential steps in ensuring the health and safety of employees and their families.

 

Building Connections: Social Inclusion and Networking

Creating opportunities for social interaction and professional networking can help new employees forge connections, combat loneliness, and enhance their sense of belonging. Whether through company-organized events or community engagement initiatives, encouraging these interactions can foster a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

 

A Focus on Mental Health

Relocating can take a toll on one’s mental health due to the stress, anxiety, and isolation it may bring. Providing access to mental health resources and support services is crucial in helping employees manage these challenges and maintain their well-being at a time when they are apart from their usual support networks.

 

Beyond the Move: Continuous Support and Integration

Support shouldn’t stop once the move is complete. Ongoing check-ins, mentorship programs, and continuous professional development opportunities are essential for ensuring the long-term success and integration of relocated employees with the company.

 

Cross-Cultural Understanding: Inclusion Training for All

Integrating an employee from another culture into the workplace is a two-way street. Cross-cultural training for existing staff can promote a more inclusive environment, enhancing collaboration and understanding across diverse teams.

 

Learning from Experience: Soliciting Feedback

Gathering feedback from relocated employees can provide invaluable insights into the effectiveness of the support provided. This feedback should serve as a foundation for continuous improvement, ensuring future relocations are even more successful, which ultimately helps with employee retention.

 

Successful International Relocation in Action

Tech giants like Google and Facebook exemplify how thorough and thoughtful relocation support can ease the transition for international hires. These companies offer comprehensive relocation packages that cover everything from corporate housing and moving expenses to social integration programs, significantly reducing the stress of moving and allowing employees to focus on what they do best.

 

Conclusion

Recruiting and relocating international talent offers vast potential benefits for organizations willing to invest in comprehensive support services. By addressing the logistical, cultural, and personal aspects of relocation, companies can ensure their global recruits are positioned for success. Not only does this benefit the individual employees, but it also contributes to a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic workplace culture, driving the organization forward in an increasingly globalized world.

 

Where To Start?

Most countries are quite different from one another (even those located within the EU). They have diverse requirements, attitudes, etc., so you should start by picking both the country and the city where you want to live.

Test the waters, study other expats’ feedback. Your best bet may be saving up some money, researching the country you enjoy, then going there to see what is around and what the people are like.

The more you know about the country and city you want to move to, the less stressful your relocation will be. Once you have your target city narrowed down, you can start searching for a tech job in your soon-to-be home.

 

Cost Of Living In Your New Locale

When moving to another state or out of your home country, figure out the cost of living in your new locale first — it can vary dramatically from location to location. There are tons of websites available (e.g. Numbeo or Teleport) that you can use to get an idea of your estimated expenses.

If you’ve already received a specific job offer, assure that the salary you’re offered will be sufficient. Remember, each country is unique, so bear in mind the varied costs of living.

For example, while living in San Francisco, one can currently expect to make $100–120K. In Portugal, on the other hand, a more realistic salary might be €20–24K (depending on the specific job). The good news is that you can live comfortably with €2000 per month in Portugal, as food and housing are very cheap. An engineer that might bring in $150k in Chicago or Seattle would net about €50–55K in Berlin. In Spain, developer salaries are not so high either, but compared to what? Developers will rarely make more than €1500–2000 per month, but that salary is considered substantial in Spain and you will be able to live comfortably — all your personal needs will be met. If you want to relocate from the UK to Switzerland, yes your salary will rise significantly, but it won’t make you better off, because you will be spending more. Thankfully, though, most European countries don’t have a huge income wage gap for software engineers.

Depending on where you go, it’s quite possible that a lower gross salary could end up being quite reasonable because expenses are lower, apartments are cheaper, you might not need a car, etc. Remember to take other factors into consideration as well, such as quality of life, benefits, tax advantages, advancement opportunities, etc.

 

Make Sure You Know Exactly What Your Relocation Package Entails

Another thing you should pay close attention to is what your future employer will and won’t offer in terms of relocation support. The offers you receive might differ to some degree. Some companies hiring international talent can only cover basic expenses such as visa/paperwork and flight tickets, while others can offer their potential employees much more advanced relocation assistance. This is generally dependent on the size and age of the company in question. Learn more here.

 

Is English Enough To Live And Work Abroad?

Language is also something to be taken into account, as it varies greatly from country to country (both the languages spoken and how common multilingualism is). In most cases, there’s no need to worry about the local language. You will be able to get a great tech job in many countries by being fluent in English only. However, there are exceptions, and how easily you can get a job and carry on daily life will be affected as a result.

Let’s say, for example, you’re thinking about joining a new project either in Berlin or Copenhagen.

You can get many jobs in both Denmark and Germany speaking only English, but in Denmark you can also do almost everything else in English (all government agencies speak English, most forms are bilingual, banks and doctors’ offices all do English, etc.). In Germany, on the other hand, the civil service and even doctors generally expect you to interact with them in German. Not that you shouldn’t also learn some Danish in Denmark, but how critical it is to quickly become proficient in the national language(s) varies a lot between countries.

So, with that in mind, it’s a good idea to check the EF English Proficiency Index before choosing your next work destination abroad.

Either way, if you want to fully integrate into your new country, you’ll need to learn the language (though, many haven’t and manage to do just fine).

Bonus tip: Do learn some of the native language of your target country before you apply. Having that on your resume and being able to handle small talk during the interview demonstrates that you are serious about staying in your new country.

 

Visa

While each country is a little different when it comes to visas, generally speaking, being sponsored by a company is all you need to acquire one. So, your first step should be to find an employer that is willing to sponsor your application for a work permit.

 

What If You Don’t Have Formal IT/CS Education?

Of course things like a university degree and work experience in your field will make your job hunt easier. In some situations, it will be very hard, nearly impossible, to secure a job with relocation without a combination of prerequisite education and on-the-job experience. However, there are also a number of overseas companies which don’t consider the lack of a formal degree as an obstacle to hiring, and they would sponsor a work visa. For example, in the Netherlands, it isn’t essential for a “highly skilled migrant” visa to have a formal education in IT. This is also the case in places like Denmark, Ireland, etc.

The hardest part about landing a tech job abroad is finding one that won’t low ball you because you might lack formal schooling.

Note: If you are passionate about technology and programming, don’t stop at university. It will be tough to compete with other candidates if you rest on your laurels. Do your own side projects, get a GitHub account to display your skills, work internships, attend meetups, and network to gain an advantage.

 

And last, but not least, ensure your significant others are on board with your decision to move before you start the relocation process. You should try making use of services like Relocate.me to help organize all the information you’ll need to know about relocating, then make a convincing case to your family and friends that your decision is the right one.