Europe jobs for Indians and Asian workers
Which European countries hire workers from India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan, how the work permit process works, what you can earn and what it costs.
Can Indians and Asians get jobs in Europe?
Yes. Many EU countries face labour shortages in factories, warehouses, construction, farming, hotels, delivery, healthcare and IT, and they issue work permits to non-EU citizens when a local employer offers a job. The key point is that the employer comes first: in almost every EU country the employer must get permission to hire you before you can apply for a work visa.
Which countries hire the most Asian workers?
| Country | Typical sectors | Target net salary / month |
|---|---|---|
| Luxembourg | Construction, industrial support, maintenance | €2,400–€2,650 |
| Finland | Manufacturing, production | €1,650–€1,900 |
| Italy | Delivery, couriers, warehouses, logistics | €1,300–€1,500 |
| Cyprus | Construction | €1,300–€1,400 |
| Estonia | Factory, packaging, warehouse | €1,200–€1,400 |
| Malta | Hotels, kitchens, cleaning | €1,250–€1,300 + service charge |
| Croatia | Construction, warehouse | €1,100–€1,250 |
| Greece | Construction, agriculture | €1,000–€1,200 |
Salaries are target net monthly figures for the programmes listed on this site and vary with tax, hours and the employer. Germany and Poland also hire large numbers of non-EU workers; see Germany and Poland.
Three ways into a European job
- Employer-sponsored work permit. The most common route for factory, warehouse, construction, hotel, farm and delivery jobs. The employer applies for your permit, then you apply for a national (Type D) visa. See visa sponsorship jobs.
- Job-seeker visas. A few countries let qualified people enter to look for work, such as Germany's Opportunity Card. Portugal's job seeker visa is closed in 2026.
- EU Blue Card. For graduates and experienced IT professionals with a well-paid job offer. See the EU Blue Card guide.
How long does it take and what does it cost?
For employer-sponsored programmes, expect about 3–4 months from registration to visa, depending on the employer, the work-permit authority and the embassy. Costs depend on the country and programme; our current programme fees are listed on the fees page, and air tickets and embassy fees are separate.
Documents to start collecting
- Passport with plenty of validity
- CV with every job and its dates
- Experience letters, including from Gulf employers
- Education and trade certificates, driving licence if you have one
- Police clearance and, when asked, a medical report
Frequently asked questions
Which European country is easiest for Indians to get a work permit?
There is no single easiest country. Countries with large labour shortages, such as Croatia, Malta, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Estonia and Poland, regularly issue employer-sponsored permits for semi-skilled jobs. Graduates and IT professionals have more options through the EU Blue Card and Germany's Opportunity Card.
Do I need IELTS for a job in Europe?
Most semi-skilled work permits do not need IELTS. Basic English helps, and some jobs, such as hotel work in Malta, need it. Skilled visas may ask for English or local-language proof; Germany's Opportunity Card, for example, needs at least English B2 or German A1.
Can I go to Europe on a visit visa and find a job there?
No. A Schengen visit visa does not allow you to work, and many countries refuse to switch a visit visa to a work permit inside the country. Get the work permit and the correct national visa before you travel.
Register your CV with EuroVisa Desk
We are building a candidate database that European employers and sponsors can search. Register your CV and documents now, and we will contact you when an employer looks for your skills or a programme opens that fits you. Registration is free, and your details are shared only with your consent.