Top European Countries Offering the Most English-Speaking Jobs
Did you know that "jobs in Spain for English speakers” is one of the most searched keywords for our visitors? No wonder, since so many already made their dream come true to move abroad. At this point we have to say though we are not talking about purely English-speaking jobs, it's much more than that it is multilingual jobs. Your native language as German, Dutch, French, or Nordic is what makes you stand out in the market and what gives you the advantage to land a job in Europe.
Where are the best countries in Europe to find a job as an English speaker? Since the pandemic, international job mobility has increased steadily, with a strong wave of cross-border hiring continuing into 2025. Many professionals across Europe are now actively looking for jobs abroad whether for better career prospects, work-life balance, or a new personal adventure.
In this article, we answer a common question: Which European countries offer the most opportunities for multilingual and english speaker professionals?
Top countries in Europe for English-Speaking Jobs
There are approximately 50 English-speaking countries in Europe including the ones where English is the predominant language. Overall, the English language knowledge in Europe is quite high. In fact, a majority of Europeans report being able to hold a conversation in English. Therefore, it is easier to encourage mobility within Europe than anywhere else.
As a consequence of the mobility and cross-border markets of global companies, there are many opportunities to work in Europe with English and your native language. Many multinational companies with operations in Europe require English speakers for a variety of positions. Some popular choices among English language jobs include customer service, teaching English as a foreign language, and working in the hospitality industry.
🇲🇹 Why Malta is great for English Speakers looking for a Job
English is an official language, spoken fluently by most of the population.
The island hosts many international companies in iGaming, tech, finance, and customer support.
EU citizens don’t need a work permit, and administrative processes are simple.
Malta offers a relaxed lifestyle, low cost of living, and a warm expat-friendly vibe.
It’s a perfect place to kick off an international career, in English, under the sun.
🇳🇱 Why The Netherlands are great for English Speakers looking for a Job
Almost everyone speaks English fluently, including in the workplace.
The Netherlands is home to many international companies in tech, logistics, sales, and customer service.
EU citizens can work freely, and relocation processes are smooth and well-organized.
The country offers a high quality of life, efficient transport, and a very open-minded culture.
It’s a top destination for building a career in Europe, no Dutch required to start!
🇵🇹Why Portugal is great for English Speakers looking for a Job
With its great weather, friendly people, and relaxed lifestyle, it’s the perfect place to work and enjoy life.
The cost of living is lower than in many Western European countries.
EU citizens can work without a visa, and companies often offer relocation support.
Portugal’s growing economy attracts international companiesin tech, tourism, marketing, and customer support. Many international companies have offices in Lisbon and created customer service hubs for which German, Dutch English and French Speakers are always needed.
English is widely spoken, especially in Lisbon and Porto.
*Please only apply if you are an EU citizen or have a valid work permit
🇪🇸 Why Spain is Great for English Speakers Looking for a Job
English is commonly used in international companies, especially in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga.
High demand for multilingual candidates in sales, marketing, and customer support.
EU citizens can work without a visa, and many roles are open to non-Spanish speakers.
Spain offers a great work-life balance, warm weather, and a vibrant social scene.
With its affordable lifestyle and international vibe, it’s an ideal place to kick-start your career abroad.
Find a job abroad *Please only apply if you are an EU citizen or have a valid work permit
Can I live in Spain or Portugal if I only speak English?
As Barcelona and Lisbon became popular destinations for European job seekers we get this question a lot. The answer is yes! In fact, according to EF Education’s English Proficiency Index, Portugal is in the top 10 English-proficient countries in the world, while Spain is 35th with an intermediate score in proficiency.
However, finding a country with a higher-level English proficiency does not necessarily mean that it should be your first choice when looking to move abroad for a job. Instead, checking the number of international openings on job boards and contacting international recruitment agencies to get more information on the market can give you a better idea. For instance, even though Spain is relatively low on the list for English proficiency, in Barcelona the English-speaking population is higher than in other cities and quite a high ratio of jobs actually require English proficiency as the primary or secondary language. You can easily find jobs in IT, Marketing, or Finance in Barcelona with English.
Similarly in Lisbon, as the international market is growing the demand for European language speakers is increasing. Even though the volume of opportunities for only English-speaking professionals might be lower in Lisbon than in Barcelona you will find a great portfolio of opportunities if you speak another European language at a native level.
How to Find an English-Speaking or Multilingual Job in Europe?
Considering all the information given above you probably already figured out that there are many ways to find an English-speaking job in Europe. One way is to search online job boards or company websites for open positions. Another way is to contact companies directly and inquire about English-speaking job openings. Finally, many recruitment agencies like Blu Selection specialize in finding employment for English speakers in Europe. Some places where English is not an official language but where English-speaking jobs may be available include international organisations; multinational corporations operating in global markets; embassies and consulates; tourist destinations; and language schools.
Search online job boards and recruitment agencies
There are many recruitment agencies that specialize in finding employment for European language speakers with a good level of English. Blu Selection is one of these. We have a lot of openings for native language speakers, especially German, Dutch, French and Nordic languages. English is an additional requirement for all our job openings. We guide candidates through the entire recruitment process and the job market of a foreign country and make sure that you are well prepared for meeting your future employer and starting your job abroad. If you want to make use of this support (completely for free of course), the button below will lead you to all our job openings.
Find a job abroad *Please only apply if you are an EU citizen or have a valid work permit
Network with other English-speaking communities who live in the country
Attend industry events or connect with professionals in your field to learn about job openings. Join expat groups, people there may have information about companies that are looking for English-speaking employees just like yourself. Make sure you check with your local foreign language school as they may have information about companies that are looking for international and English-speaking employees as well.
Be flexible, patient, and stay positive
There are many opportunities for multilingual and English speakers in Europe, but being open to different types of jobs and locations will increase your chances of finding employment. Don’t forget that the job search process can take time, so be prepared to continue your search for more than just a month. In general, the job search can be challenging, but staying positive and persistent will eventually lead to success. and remember : We have a lot of openings for native language speakers, especially German, Dutch, French and Nordic languages. English is an additional requirement for all our job openings
Are you ready to kickstart your job search in Europe with recruitment experts who happen to be expats as well? Here we are, ready to help you land your new career challenge with your language skills.
