Moving to Europe is a thrilling fantasy for many Americans and Canadians. However, without the right planning, it will stay as just a fantasy.
There’s no doubt that Europe is an amazing continent full of great sights, food, and culture, and if you want to enjoy the European lifestyle long-term you’re going to need a j-o-b.
Contrary to what some believe, Europeans don’t only take siestas or lounge around all day in a café. You’ll need to join the workforce and luckily there are plenty of cities in Europe where you can find jobs in Europe for Americans.
To start getting in touch with employers and land a job you’re going to need to create a Euro-style resume.
In this article we’ll give you tips on how to create your resume, tell you what requirements you’ll have to meet to live in Europe, as well as point you to the best countries to begin your job search.
With the following resume advice and tools, you can create a Euro-approved resume and begin to turn your European dream into a reality.
How Should I Format My Resume to Fit My European Job Search?
One of the first things to consider on your European job search is to get your resume properly formatted. Our easy-to-use resume–building tool makes the formatting job much easier, especially when your application is going to cross the pond.
It’s also helpful to understand the differences between resumes and what exactly needs to be highlighted for your application to be successful.
Some main differences between an American and European resume (or CV) include:
- Photos: They are common on resumes in most European countries
- Length: Resumes in Europe are usually 2-3 pages
- Tone: Resumes are often friendlier
Adding your photo to a resume is necessary in almost every European country. The only exceptions to this are the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands, and Sweden.
To properly format your resume, you’ll have to keep in mind that hiring managers in Europe value certain parts of a section a bit more than managers in the U.S. and Canada.
Follow the tips below to ensure your best qualifications stand out.
- Keep it concise: Although European CVs tend to be more detailed than American resumes, it’s still essential to keep things short and sweet. Aim for a maximum of two pages, and make sure to only include information that’s relevant to the job you’re applying for.
- Languages matter: Being multilingual is a huge asset in Europe, so make sure to showcase your language skills!
- Mind the gaps: Unlike in the U.S., European employers don’t frown upon gaps in your employment history. However, it’s still a good idea to address any significant gaps.
- Tailor your CV: Just like you would for a job search in the U.S., make sure to tailor your resume to each position you apply for. Highlight the most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that make you the perfect candidate for the role.
The Europass format will be your best friend in this process. It’s a standardized format that makes it easy for employers across the continent to understand your qualifications. The Europass CV includes sections like:
- Personal information
- Job-related skills
- Language skills
- Digital skills
- Education and training
- Work experience
- Additional information (e.g., certifications, publications, etc)
Now that you know how to create a CV, you’ll need to understand where to find the best jobs for Americans in Europe are and the requirements you must fulfill.
A quick tip, the faster you find someone willing to hire you, especially if you’re still in the U.S., the easier the entire process will be.
How Can I Find a Job in Europe?
The fact that English is a desirable business language and the rise of the digital economy in Europe means getting a job in Europe as an American is possible for both entry-level and experienced professionals.
Job searching in the EU and Europe, in general, is quite similar to the US with most applications being made online via job websites. You will be required to register, complete any questionnaires that are necessary, attach your resume and maybe a cover letter too.
The Best Sites to Find Jobs in Europe
Like in the US, many Europeans use LinkedIn to browse positions in their local area. However, there are a few providers out there who are tailored to American ex-pats. The best sites for finding a job in Europe include:
- Monster Worldwide
- Go Abroad
- Eurojobs
- CareerJet
- Going Global
Alternatively, you could be lucky enough to be working in an international company and be able to request a transfer to one of its foreign offices in Europe.
This is probably one of the most straightforward ways to live and work abroad in the EU and around the continent. In this situation, your company’s HR department will probably take care of most of the paperwork, such as your visa, for you. It’s a win-win!
If you’d rather move to Europe independently and aren’t sure what you’ll need to do to get jobs, keep reading. What follows is a step-by-step guide on how to get all the required documentation to find employment in Europe when you are a US national.
What are the Visa Requirements to Work in Europe?
The key thing that Americans arriving in Europe will need before they land is a valid Schengen visa (which is applicable in 26 EU countries), or a visa for the non-Schengen country that they’ll be living in.
In many of the Schengen countries, you can arrive and look for jobs straight away, or if you prefer to, apply for positions before you leave the US.
There isn’t a universal work permit for the entire EU at present. While every member country follows a fairly standard application procedure each can set its own rules and stipulations for granting work permits.
US citizens aren’t required to have a work permit on arrival in the Schengen countries of the European Union. You can wait to apply for once you’ve got to the country you’ve decided to work in.
What Do I Need When Applying for a European Work Permit?
Every country has its own rules for foreigners working within its borders. Nevertheless, the following items will be expected in almost all European nations.
- A completed application form and one photocopy
- Two identical photos of you
- A valid passport (with over 6 months remaining validity)
- A return flight reservation to your home country
- Medical insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- An employment contract
- Proof of any academic qualifications
- Any proof of language knowledge
Be aware, however, there are different rules for those arriving in the UK, Ireland and other non-Schengen countries.
On the other hand, if you are a dual citizen of a European country, congratulations! You will be able to look for jobs and work right away without much in the way of additional red tape.
Popular Jobs for Americans in Europe
Are you wondering how you’ll get your foot in the door, especially if you’re so far away?
Getting a job in Europe as an American isn’t always straightforward, with a possible language barrier and applying for a visa. However, plenty of Americans are living and working abroad, so it is more than possible.
Luckily, as a native English speaker, certain jobs are made for Americans who dream of working in Europe.
They are easier to land and since English is one of, if not the primary requirement, you’ll have a huge advantage over other candidates.
Some of the most popular jobs for U.S. citizens in Europe include:
- English Teachers
- Healthcare Professionals
- Customer Service Assistants
- IT Technicians
- Au Pairs
Most of these jobs are easy to find throughout Europe and just about any hiring manager would love to hire an American for these roles.
What Are the Most Popular Countries for Americans Working in Europe?
Europe is diverse. Certain countries and areas earn more money off of tourism, while some favor industry or tech. The most popular places for Americans to work in Europe seem to be:
- Spain
- France
- Portugal
- The Netherlands
- The United Kingdom
- Germany
- Austria
- Greece
- Italy
In a country like Spain, teaching positions are usually the easiest positions to find.
In Germany or the U.K. where English is a native language or spoken at a very high level, you may be able to make it as an IT technician.
Working in Europe Checklist
Before setting off for the airport, or even before applying to jobs, it’s essential to check that everything is understood.
So let’s make sure you are clear on everything you are going to need to embark on your professional European adventure:
- A resume that has the correct European resume format
- A valid visa for the country you’ll be living in or a European passport
- An understanding of the jobs that are most available
- Appropriate foreign language skills
- A little research on the countries and jobs that you’re interested in
Living overseas for work is a unique experience and Europe is one of the best places to live that life. All it takes is a little planning, paperwork, and a well-prepared application.
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