Can an American get a job in the EU?
Asked by: Ariane Lang | Last update: September 1, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (17 votes)
Getting a job in Europe as an American isn't always straightforward, with a possible language barrier and applying for
Can a US citizen work in the EU?
The Permit Process:
Work permits are mandatory for all non-EU/EFTA citizens, even for short-term work. The government limits the number of permits issued each year. If you're self-employed, you'll need to take charge of the application yourself.
Which country in Europe is easiest to get a job?
- Sweden 🇸🇪
- Lithuania 🇱🇹
- Iceland 🇮🇸
- Latvia 🇱🇻
- Slovakia 🇸🇰
- Luxembourg 🇱🇺
- Czechia 🇨🇿
- Wrapping it up: Time to Get a Work Visa.
Is it hard to move to Europe as an American?
Depending on your situation, some countries may have a more straightforward option to residency. Some of the most difficult countries to move to are Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Iceland. These countries have limited visa options for the average American.
What European country is easiest for an American to move to?
Favorable Tax Regime and Benefits For Expats
The tax regime in Portugal is one of the core reasons why it is the easiest country in Europe for Americans to move to. A good example is the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) Tax Program, which you can obtain with your temporary and permanent residence permits in the country.
How to get a job in Europe without sponsorship | Jobs in France for foreigners
How to get a job in Europe as an American?
As a US citizen, you do not have an automatic right to work in Europe. You need a valid Schengen work visa or a work visa for a specific non-Schengen country. Many Americans looking to work in Europe will use their 90 days per 180 days visa-free period to apply for jobs before obtaining a work visa.
What is the cheapest country to buy residency in Europe?
The cheapest Golden Visa countries in the EU are Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Hungary. In each of these states, a residence permit can be obtained for €250,000.
Is it cheaper to live in America or Europe?
Europe is cheaper than the U.S. based on variables such as prices of goods and services, exchange rates, and market conditions. Being savvy and knowledgeable about local customs, price patterns, and international financial matters can help a visitor maximize the advantages.
What is the golden visa for Europe?
Golden Visa programs offer residency and sometimes citizenship in exchange for investment. This investment can be in real estate, businesses, or government funds. Many European countries are reforming or phasing out their Golden Visa programs.
Can a US citizen live permanently in Europe?
In most European countries (including those members of the Schengen Area), short stays of up to 90 days in one 180-day period are allowed without a visa for American passport holders. However, if you wish to live in Europe, you need a long-stay visa and/or residency permit.
What job is most in demand in Europe?
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) specialists are by far the most in-demand professionals, making up 9% of all online job advertisements. Euronews Business takes a closer look at job ads and the most requested skills in the EU.
What is the best country in Europe for Americans to work in?
Top European countries offering work-life balance
Spain, France and Austria are often hailed as the best European places to live in and work.
Which European country is best for unskilled jobs?
For those searching for unskilled jobs in Europe for foreigners, these industries provide steady employment with competitive wages. Additionally, specific countries like Romania, Hungary, Germany and Switzerland are particularly appealing for unskilled labor due to their work environments and salaries.
How long can a US citizen stay in the EU?
With a valid U.S. passport, you can stay up to 90 days for tourism or business during any 180-day period. Do not overstay! You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area. To stay longer than 90 days, you must have a visa.
What countries can Americans work in without a visa?
- Albania.
- Germany.
- Namibia.
- Netherlands.
- Andorra.
- Greece.
- Nicaragua.
- Antigua and Barbuda.
Can I work in Europe with an American degree?
Yes, American degrees are recognized in Europe. Many European countries have established frameworks to assess and recognize foreign degrees, including those from the United States.
What is the easiest country to get permanent residency in Europe without investment?
What is the easiest European country for non-EU citizens to get permanent residency in? Thanks to their straightforward Golden Visa programs, Portugal and Greece are often cited as the easiest countries for non-EU citizens to obtain permanent residency.
How much money do you need to get a Golden Visa in Spain?
Spain Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment scheme. For a minimum investment of 500,000 EUR, non-EU nationals can get a Spanish residence permit and secure visa-free travel across Europe's Schengen Area. Eventually, you can also obtain Spanish citizenship.
What is the Swiss Residence Program?
The Switzerland residence by investment program, known as the Swiss Residence Program, offers residence to individuals and their families through substantial economic contributions to the country.
What are the cons of living in Europe?
- The Uphill Task of Navigating the Famous European Bureaucracy.
- Narrower Streets and More Compact Living.
- Taxes are Generally High and You Might Pay Double.
- Public Transportation Can Be Intimidating and Inconvenient.
- A Complicated Network of Languages and Dialects.
Can an American buy a house in Europe?
Yes, Americans can buy property in Europe, but the rules differ across countries, making it an exciting yet detailed process to navigate. In the UK, there are no restrictions, though buyers must follow anti-money laundering laws and often work with a solicitor.
What is the cheapest country to live in?
- The cheapest place to live in the world is Pakistan, according to Numbeo's 2024 Cost of Living Index.
- Countries with a low cost of living and high quality of life include Costa Rica, Portugal and Malaysia.
- The cheapest places to live in the US are Wichita and Overland Park, both in Kansas.
What is the fastest citizenship by investment?
- Vanuatu: 1–4 months.
- St Kitts and Nevis: 4-6 months.
- Dominica: 6+ months.
- St Lucia: 6+ months.
- Grenada: 8+ months.
- Antigua and Barbuda: 6 months.
- Turkey: 8+ months.
- Jordan: 4-6 months.
Where is life the cheapest in Europe?
- Portugal.
- Turkey.
- Romania.
- Poland.
- Hungary.
- Slovakia.
- Czechia.
- Montenegro.
What is the easiest EU residency for Americans?
Retire To Portugal
The quickest, easiest, and most affordable country to seek residency in Europe, Portugal has the lowest income requirement on the continent. While the number isn't set, it's based on the country's minimum wage, which is 903 euros (about $950) as of January 2025.