If you are reading this, you are probably at a crossroads. The Spanish labour market isn't giving you what you expected, salaries aren't enough to live independently and job offers seem to require years of experience you don't have yet . The good news is that Europe is full of opportunities for young people like you who are willing to take the leap and work temporarily outside Spain .
This guide isn't going to sell you fairy tales. Working in Europe can be tough , especially at the beginning. But it can also be the opportunity you need to save real money, gain international experience, improve your languages and decide which career path you want to follow . Here you will find practical information about the best countries to work in Europe in 2026, with real data on salaries, sectors that are hiring, requirements and what nobody tells you: the real challenges you will face .
We have analysed each destination with you specifically in mind: a young person aged 18 to 30 looking for temporary work that allows you to save and grow . Some countries offer higher salaries but also a higher cost of living. Others make accommodation and transport easier . Read on to find out which is your best option, with special attention to the Netherlands, the most balanced and accessible destination for Spaniards without experience .
How did we select the best countries?
Not all European countries are equally accessible or profitable for a young Spaniard looking for their first international work experience . We have applied specific criteria that really matter when you are starting out .
Key selection factors
Cost of living vs real salary: looking at the minimum wage isn't enough . A €2,000 salary in Switzerland is not the same as €2,000 in Poland. We analyse real purchasing power and monthly savings capacity .
Demand for temporary work and operators: we prioritise countries that actively hire workers without experience in sectors such as logistics, industrial production, agriculture, cleaning and hospitality .
Accessible growth sectors: we focus on industries that don't require a university degree: warehouses, greenhouses, factories, cleaning, basic mechanics, customer service and hospitality .
Realistic language requirements: some countries let you work with just basic English or even without speaking the local language at first . This factor is crucial for your first job .
Help with accommodation and transport: countries where companies offer or arrange shared housing and transport to work significantly reduce your initial expenses .
Quality of life and safety: healthcare system, political stability, job security and a welcoming environment for foreigners .
Spain serves as the reference point: a minimum wage of approximately €1,134, a youth unemployment rate of around 28%, and a cost of living that varies between €900-1,200 a month depending on the city .
Ranking of the best countries to work in Europe
Country #1: the Netherlands (Holland)
The Netherlands ranks as the absolute best destination for young Spaniards looking for their first work experience in Europe . It is no coincidence: it combines competitive salaries, a very high quality of life, an exceptional level of English and a unique infrastructure for foreign temporary workers that you won't find in any other European country . Take a look at all the best offers for working in the Netherlands here.
The minimum wage in the Netherlands is approximately €14.40 per hour (€2,371 gross per month working 40 hours a week) . The unemployment rate is 3.6%, one of the lowest in Europe . 90% of the population speaks perfect English, making it the most English-speaking country in continental Europe . The cost of living is around €1,000-1,300 a month when sharing accommodation, allowing real savings of €700-1,000 a month .
The most in-demand sectors are logistics and distribution (e-commerce warehouses), food production (meat processing, dairy, industrial bakery), industrial cleaning and hospitality . Most Dutch companies that hire temporary staff have specific programmes for foreigners, often with Spanish-speaking coordinators. Here you can see logistics and production offers in the Netherlands .
The advantages for Spaniards are extraordinary: the practically native level of English across the whole population means you can communicate from day one without any problems . Dutch culture is direct, transparent and extremely organised, which eliminates unpleasant surprises . The public transport system is exceptional, connecting the whole country efficiently, although the bicycle is the real king . Companies usually provide a bicycle and good-quality shared accommodation, not overcrowded rooms .
Quality of life in the Netherlands is among the best in the world : safe, clean and well-kept cities, a first-class healthcare system, full respect for employment rights and a progressive mindset . Its geographical location is perfect for travelling: Belgium and Germany are an hour away, Paris three, and London is easily reached by train or cheap flights . The Spanish community in the Netherlands is very active and supportive, especially in Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Eindhoven and the Westland region .
The Dutch working environment values efficiency over hours worked: there is no culture of staying late at the office to keep up appearances . Contracts are clear, salaries are paid on time and there is a real balance between work and personal life . For young Spaniards, this contrasts dramatically with Spanish job insecurity .
The challenges are minimal compared with other countries: the cost of living is higher than in Spain, especially in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, but salaries more than make up for it . The weather is rainy and grey for much of the year, which affects your mood at first but you get used to it . Finding independent accommodation can be complicated and expensive, which is why companies that provide it are invaluable . Agricultural and warehouse work is physically demanding, but no more than in other countries .
Practical tip: look for agencies specialising in recruiting Spaniards for the Netherlands that offer a complete package: contract, accommodation, transport and processing of your BSN (Dutch identification number) . Many have offices in Spain and advise you before you travel, as is the case with International Job Challenge . You will need your ID card, CV and willingness to start . Your BSN is arranged when you arrive by registering at the local town hall . Always check the exact accommodation conditions: location, number of housemates, services included and the cost deducted from your salary .
Why is the Netherlands #1? Because it offers the best balance of all the factors: high salaries, an international environment, easy communication in English, organised and reliable companies, exceptional quality of life and proximity to Spain for visiting family . For a young Spaniard without experience, there is no more accessible and profitable destination .
Country #2: Germany
Germany is the second best destination for young Spaniards, with a robust economy and constant demand for workers . Its labour market is the largest in Europe and takes on thousands of temporary workers every year .
The minimum wage in Germany is €12.41 per hour (approximately €2,151 gross per month working 40 hours a week) . The unemployment rate is around 6% . About 56% of the population speaks English . The cost of living for a young person sharing a flat ranges between €800-1,200 a month, allowing real savings of €600-900 a month .
The most in-demand sectors include logistics and warehouses (Amazon, DHL), industrial production (automotive, machinery), industrial cleaning, hospitality and elderly care . Most don't require fluent German to start .
The advantages for Spaniards are notable: there is a large, well-established Spanish community, especially in cities such as Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt . Many companies offer initial accommodation or help to find it . Public transport is excellent and the healthcare system is first class .
The main challenges are the German language in the medium to long term, the cold winter weather and a more formal and direct culture that can be a shock at first .
Practical tip: register on platforms such as Indeed Germany and Stepstone or directly on the websites of German temporary employment agencies . You will need your NIE, European social security number and a criminal record certificate .
Country #3: Belgium
Belgium combines high salaries with a privileged central location that lets you travel around Europe easily . It is especially attractive for work in logistics and production .
The minimum wage is approximately €11.65 per hour (€2,020 gross per month) . The unemployment rate is 5.5% . Around 60% speak English, especially in Flanders . The cost of living ranges between €900-1,300 a month .
The main sectors are logistics (because of its position as a European hub), industrial production, construction, cleaning and hospitality . The Flanders region (north) has more offers than Wallonia (south) .
The advantages are competitive salaries with the possibility of saving, a perfect central location for travelling and a large international community in Brussels and Antwerp .
The challenges include the country's language divide (Dutch in Flanders, French in Wallonia), complex bureaucracy and a high cost of living in Brussels .
Practical tip: focus on Flanders if you don't speak French . You will need to register at the local town hall and obtain your Belgian identity card .
Country #4: Denmark
Denmark has the highest salaries in Europe for unskilled work, but also the highest cost of living . It is for people looking to maximise income in the short term .
There is no legal minimum wage, but sector agreements guarantee at least €19-22 per hour (€3,300-3,800 gross per month) . The unemployment rate is 5% . 86% speak perfect English . The cost of living is €1,400-1,800 a month even when sharing .
The main sectors are agriculture (pig farms, crops), food production, logistics, cleaning and hospitality .
The advantages are very high salaries that allow significant savings, an excellent level of English and an egalitarian, respectful society .
The challenges include an extremely high cost of living, difficulty finding affordable accommodation and cold, dark winters .
Practical tip: aim for agricultural or factory jobs that include accommodation . You will need a CPR number and a Danish bank account .
Country #5: Austria
Austria offers an exceptional quality of life, stunning scenery and decent salaries . It is ideal if you value stability and a calm environment more than maximum savings .
The minimum wage varies by sector but averages around €1,900 gross per month . The unemployment rate is 4.8% . Approximately 73% speak English . The cost of living is between €900-1,300 a month outside Vienna .
The sectors in demand are tourism and hospitality (especially in ski areas), industrial production, construction and logistics .
The advantages include a very high quality of life, incredible nature and scenery, and a culture similar to Germany's but more relaxed .
The challenges are that German is more necessary than in Germany and salaries are slightly lower .
Practical tip: if you like the mountains and skiing, look for jobs at winter resorts that include accommodation and meals .
Country #6: Sweden
Sweden balances good salaries, quality of life and a progressive environment . Ideal if you are looking for a different experience with a focus on well-being .
Salaries for unskilled work are around €2,500-3,000 gross per month . The unemployment rate is 7.5% . 89% speak excellent English . The cost of living ranges between €1,100-1,500 a month .
The sectors with opportunities are logistics and warehouses, industrial production, construction and cleaning .
The advantages are a very egalitarian and progressive society, excellent English across the population and generous employment benefits .
The challenges include a high cost of living, especially in Stockholm, and long, very dark winters .
Practical tip: temporary employment agencies are your best way in . You will need a personnummer, which is issued when you register .
Country #7: Norway
Norway offers the highest salaries in all of Europe, but requires a larger initial investment and adapting to an extreme climate .
Minimum salaries under collective agreements are around €22-25 per hour (€3,800-4,300 gross per month) . The unemployment rate is 3.8% . 90% speak perfect English . The cost of living is the highest in Europe: €1,500-2,000 a month .
The main sectors are fishing and fish processing, construction, logistics and cleaning .
The advantages are extraordinary salaries that allow you to save a lot, and stunning nature .
The challenges are a prohibitive cost of living without provided accommodation and an extreme climate, especially in the north .
Practical tip: only recommended if you get a job with accommodation included .
Country #8: Ireland
Ireland is perfect if your priority is improving your English while you work . Its friendly culture and welcoming atmosphere make adapting easier .
The minimum wage is €12.70 per hour (€2,200 gross per month) . The unemployment rate is 4.3% . 100% speak English as their native language . The cost of living is high: €1,200-1,600 a month .
The sectors in demand are hospitality (pubs, restaurants, hotels), cleaning, retail and logistics .
The advantages are total immersion in English and a friendly, welcoming culture .
The challenges include a very high cost of living, especially in Dublin, and a housing crisis .
Practical tip: look for work outside Dublin (Cork, Galway, Limerick), where the cost of living is lower .
Country #9: Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is the budget option that lets you save a high percentage of your salary thanks to its low cost of living .
The minimum wage is approximately €4.80 per hour (€832 gross per month), but factory jobs pay €1,200-1,600 . The unemployment rate is 2.8% . The cost of living is just €600-900 a month .
The main sectors are industrial production (automotive, electronics), logistics and construction .
The advantage is a very low cost of living that lets you save proportionally more .
The challenges include significantly lower salaries and the very difficult Czech language .
Practical tip: focus on established multinationals that pay better .
Country #10: Poland
Poland completes our top 10 as an option for people looking for European experience with minimal investment .
The minimum wage is €4.30 per hour (€746 gross per month), but warehouses and factories pay €1,000-1,400 . The unemployment rate is 3.1% . The cost of living is €550-850 a month .
The sectors with opportunities are logistics (many Amazon centres) and industrial production .
The advantages are a very low cost of living and beautiful cities with a youthful atmosphere .
The challenges include low salaries compared with western Europe .
Practical tip: Amazon and other large companies are your best way in .
Quick comparison of all countries
Country
Approx. monthly net salary
Monthly cost of living
Savings potential
English level
Key sector
Help with accommodation
Netherlands
1.900-2.100€
1.000-1.300€
700-1.000€
Excellent (90%)
Agriculture, logistics
Very high
Germany
1.650-1.900€
800-1.200€
600-900€
Good (56%)
Logistics, production
High
Belgium
1.600-1.800€
900-1.300€
500-800€
Good (60%)
Logistics, production
Medium
Denmark
2.600-3.000€
1.400-1.800€
1.000-1.400€
Excellent (86%)
Agriculture, production
Medium
Austria
1.500-1.700€
900-1.300€
400-700€
Very good (73%)
Tourism, production
Medium
Sweden
2.000-2.300€
1.100-1.500€
700-1.000€
Excellent (89%)
Logistics, production
Medium
Norway
3.000-3.400€
1.500-2.000€
1.200-1.800€
Excellent (90%)
Fishing, construction
Low
Ireland
1.700-1.900€
1.200-1.600€
400-600€
Native (100%)
Hospitality, retail
Low
Czech Rep.
900-1.200€
600-900€
300-500€
Low (27%)
Industrial production
High
Poland
750-1.100€
550-850€
200-400€
Medium (33%)
Logistics, production
High
The Netherlands stands out as the most balanced option: it combines competitive salaries with significant real savings, an exceptional level of English that makes communication easy from day one, and the best accommodation and support for foreign workers anywhere in Europe . If you have no previous experience and are looking for your first international opportunity, the Netherlands is undoubtedly your best choice .
If your absolute priority is maximising savings regardless of the cost of living, Norway or Denmark with accommodation included are options . If you want to improve your English as a native language, choose Ireland . If your initial budget is very limited, the Czech Republic or Poland require less investment .
How do you choose the right country for you?
Define your priorities
There is no perfect country for everyone . You need to ask yourself what matters most to you at this stage of your life .
Is your main goal to save money? The Netherlands offers the best balance between high salary and real savings capacity, with the added advantage of full support for foreigners . Denmark and Norway pay more, but only if you get accommodation included .
Do you want to improve your English for your professional future? The Netherlands is ideal: 90% of the population speaks perfect English, you will use it every day, and it is more affordable than Ireland . Ireland offers native English but less savings capacity .
Are you looking for an enriching cultural experience? The Netherlands places you in the heart of western Europe with easy access to Belgium, Germany, France and England . Its open, cosmopolitan culture will enrich you personally .
Do you prefer a more relaxed and open environment? Dutch culture is direct, honest and progressive, without rigid hierarchies or unnecessary formalities . The work-life balance is real, not just talk .
Assess your profile
Be honest with yourself about your current circumstances . Your age, financial resources, language skills and physical stamina will determine which country is realistic for you .
If you are 18-22 with no previous work experience, the Netherlands is your ideal destination . Dutch companies have decades of experience integrating young foreign workers, with proven systems and ongoing support . If you are 25-30 with some experience, the Netherlands is still excellent but you could also consider the Nordic countries .
In terms of initial budget, the Netherlands requires between €1,000-1,500 to settle in if you go on your own . However, many specialised agencies offer all-inclusive packages where you only need your ticket and some money for the first few days until your first payslip . This advantage is unique to the Netherlands and you won't find it in other destinations .
As for languages, if you only speak Spanish, the Netherlands is your best option after Ireland . English is enough for everything: work, daily life and paperwork . If you have basic English, you will improve quickly in the Netherlands through constant immersion . If you don't speak English, many specialised agencies in the Netherlands have Spanish-speaking coordinators to support you .
Consider your physical stamina: work in greenhouses, warehouses or production is physically demanding . In the first few days you will be tired, but your body adapts quickly . The advantage of the Netherlands is that greenhouses are controlled environments (heated in winter), not outdoor work in extreme conditions .
Checklist before you go
Documents in order: valid ID card/passport, European Health Insurance Card, up-to-date CV in English, digital copies of everything .
Confirmed employment contract: never travel without a signed contract or written confirmation . Check the net salary, working hours, duration, accommodation conditions if applicable, and trial period .
Accommodation secured: provided by the company or booked for the first few days while you search . Don't arrive without knowing where you will sleep . In the Netherlands, most reputable companies include good-quality shared accommodation in their package .
Financial resources: at least €800-1,000 as a safety cushion for unexpected events . If you work with an agency that provides accommodation from day one, this amount is enough .
Health insurance: the European Health Insurance Card covers emergencies, but consider additional private insurance .
Communication plan: a mobile SIM or roaming plan, translation apps downloaded, emergency contacts noted down .
Realistic expectations: the first few months will be hard . Accept that you will feel homesick, that the work may be monotonous and that saving requires sacrifice .
Tips for making the most of your experience working in Europe
Save from day one
Open a local bank account immediately to avoid transfer fees . In the Netherlands, ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank or apps such as Bunq and Revolut are popular and easy to open .
Use public transport or a bicycle . In the Netherlands, the bicycle is faster and cheaper than any alternative . Many companies provide one when you arrive . Monthly public transport passes (OV-chipkaart) work out cheaper than individual tickets .
Shop at budget supermarkets: in the Netherlands, Albert Heijn is expensive; go for Lidl, Aldi, Jumbo or Plus . Avoid expensive brands and restaurants in the first few weeks . Cook at home .
Share accommodation with other workers if the company doesn't provide it . As well as saving money, you will have company and advice from people who have been there longer .
Set a monthly savings target and transfer that amount to a separate account on payday . If you don't see it, you don't spend it .
Keep improving
Use the immersion to improve your English . In the Netherlands everyone speaks perfect English, so practise constantly . Talk to Dutch colleagues, watch series in the original version and download apps such as Duolingo . Fluent English multiplies your future job options .
Integrate culturally: attend local events, join language exchange groups (many at Dutch libraries), try the local food and learn about the country's history . The more you integrate, the better your experience will be .
Network constantly: connect with other Spaniards but also with Dutch people and other foreigners . Many better jobs are found through contacts, not job portals .
Take advantage of weekends to travel . From the Netherlands you can visit Brussels (2h), Amsterdam (variable), Cologne (2.5h), Paris (3.5h) and London (4h) . Low-cost flights, cheap buses and frequent trains .
Plan your future
Document your work experience: keep contracts, payslips and certificates . This adds to your CV and helps with future residence permits if you decide to stay .
Look into training options: the Netherlands offers vocational courses and training programmes . If you show interest, some companies let you move up internally .
Build your career strategically: if you start in a greenhouse or warehouse, aim to move up to coordinator, forklift driver or supervisor . Every step adds valuable experience .
Keep your options open: after 6-12 months, assess whether to stay, change sector in the Netherlands or return to Spain with experience and savings that let you start a business or look for a better job .
Avoid common mistakes
No vayas sin contrato confiando en «lo arreglaremos allí» . Muchos jóvenes han llegado a trabajos inexistentes o condiciones abusivas .
Don't spend your whole salary on going out in the first few months . It is tempting when you earn more than in Spain, but the goal is to save .
Don't isolate yourself with only Spaniards . Creating a Spanish-speaking bubble limits your language learning and cultural experience .
Don't accept abusive working conditions . Know your rights: minimum wage, maximum hours, rest days . The Netherlands has strict employment laws that are respected .
Don't idealise your destination or underestimate the challenges . There will be difficult days . That is normal . Homesickness passes and the experience is worth it .
Frequently asked questions
Where are the best salaries paid for working in Europe without a degree?
Norway offers the highest salaries (€3,800-4,300 gross per month), followed by Denmark (€3,300-3,800) . However, the high cost of living reduces real savings . The Netherlands offers the best balance with €2,371 gross, a moderate cost of living and a real possibility of saving €700-1,000 a month with full support for foreigners .
Which European country accepts temporary workers who don't speak English?
The Netherlands has the largest infrastructure for Spanish-speaking workers without English . Many specialised agencies have Spanish-speaking coordinators and form groups of workers who speak the same language . Germany also has this structure, but with a lower level of English among the general population . Poland and the Czech Republic hire without English, especially in factories with programmes for foreigners .
Can I work in Europe and bring my partner?
Yes, if your partner is Spanish, they can enter and live in any EU country without any problems, but they will need their own work arrangement . If you are married or in a registered partnership, some countries such as the Netherlands allow family reunification, making permits easier . If your partner is from outside the EU, the process is more complex and varies by country . The most practical option is for both of you to find work independently . In the Netherlands, many young Spanish couples work together at different companies in the same sector .
Is accommodation included in temporary jobs in Europe?
In the Netherlands, most companies that recruit foreign temporary workers offer good-quality shared accommodation, usually deducting between €250-400 a month from the salary . This includes a single room or one shared with at most 1-2 other people, an equipped kitchen, bathroom, wifi and cleaning . Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic also often offer it . Always check the specific conditions: quality of the accommodation, number of people, services included and whether the deduction is reasonable .
How much can you really save working in Europe?
In the Netherlands, if you are disciplined, between €700-1,000 a month . In Norway with accommodation included, €1,500-2,000 a month . In Germany, €600-900 a month . In Denmark, €1,000-1,400 . In Ireland, €400-600 . In the Czech Republic or Poland, €300-500 . In the first few months you will save less because of settling-in costs . From the third month your savings stabilise . Disciplined workers in the Netherlands save €8,000-12,000 in their first year .
Ready to take the step?
Working in Europe isn't for everyone, but if you have read this far, you probably have the determination needed to make it work . We won't promise it will be easy . In the first few months you will miss your home, your food and your language . There will be cold days, hard work and moments of loneliness . But you will also have a transformative experience that gives you financial independence, personal maturity and tools to build your future .
Thousands of young Spaniards are having this experience right now . Some stay for years, others return after saving enough to start a business or continue their studies . What they all have in common is that they took the step instead of staying stuck .
The Netherlands represents the best opportunity to take that first step: proven infrastructure for foreigners, reliable and organised companies, ongoing support, an international environment and real savings capacity . You don't need previous experience . You don't need to speak perfect Dutch . You just need the desire to work, the ability to adapt and the courage to leave your comfort zone. Take a look at the International Job Challenge website to work in the Netherlands with full support from Spain.
The best country to work in Europe isn't the one with the highest salary or the nicest weather . It is the one that fits your goals, your profile and your current circumstances . For most young Spaniards without experience, that country is the Netherlands .
Ready to work in the Netherlands with everything organised? We specialise in connecting young Spaniards with real opportunities in the Netherlands . We provide your contract, quality accommodation, transport and full processing of your BSN . You are not alone in this process: we support you from Spain to your first day at work . Check our available vacancies in logistics and production and start your European adventure with real guarantees . Upload your CV today and take the first step towards your independence .
Additional resources
Common mistakes when looking for work in the Netherlands : a complete guide on how to get your BSN (Dutch identification number), open a bank account, register at the town hall and take out health insurance.
Employment sectors in the Netherlands : a detailed analysis of greenhouse agriculture, logistics and warehouses, food production and industrial cleaning, with specific salaries and requirements.
Real testimonials : stories of young Spaniards currently working in the Netherlands, their experiences, the savings they have made and practical advice.
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