Consider Berlin, Amsterdam Or Zurich If You Want to Relocate To Europe
Are you looking to relocate to a European country or the UK for work but you’re unsure which one to choose? Then the list below will help you decide.
If you’re particularly interested in the French and UK markets, you’ll find our free resources on the Allora Blog. I wrote these blogs based on my experience living and working in Paris and London.
As an Allora Specialist with expertise across France, the United Kingdom and Thailand, I advise our clients on relocation, career strategy and interview preparation sharing my experience both personally and as a recruiter and talent acquisition professional.
Here are some of the top European cities to consider:
1. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is widely regarded as the tech startup capital of Europe. It is home to over 4,500 tech startups, including giants like N26, Zalando, SoundCloud and Delivery Hero. Beyond technology, Berlin is also a hub for industries such as media, healthcare, and green energy. Berlin offers a wealth of opportunities whether you’re a creative professional, an engineer, or an entrepreneur,
The city’s openness to innovation has made it a haven for professionals with bold ideas. In addition, Berlin’s central location in Europe makes it a strategic base for businesses seeking to expand across the continent.
Berlin is also one of the most diverse cities in Europe, with expats making up a significant portion of its population. This diversity translates into a workplace culture that is open, collaborative, and inclusive. Many companies in Berlin operate in English, making it easier for non-German speakers to integrate.
Note that for some professions, particularly in healthcare and engineering, your qualifications may need to be officially recognized in Germany, which can be a lengthy process so you will need to research the recognition process for your field and prepare documentation in advance.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Known for its international work culture, Amsterdam is a major hub for finance, technology, creative industries, and logistics. Companies like Booking.com, Philips, and Adyen call Amsterdam home, and it’s becoming a center for AI and sustainable technology as well. The Amsterdam Internet Exchange is one of the largest data hubs in the world, cementing its status as a tech hotspot.
If you’re interested in relocating to Amsterdam, make sure to check out neighborhoods like De Pijp and Amsterdam Zuid, which are filled with international residents, global cuisines, and vibrant social scenes.
And finally, the Dutch government actively encourages international talent through schemes like the 30% ruling, which offers tax benefits to eligible expats, meaning they can receive up to 30% of their gross salary tax-free.
Interested in Amsterdam?
Book a consultation with Allora founder, Kelly Kugler. She lived in Amsterdam as an expat while recruiting and building talent acquisition programs across EMEA and the USA.
3. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and a global financial hub. It’s home to numerous multinational corporations, prestigious banks like UBS and Credit Suisse, and a strong insurance sector. The city’s stability and robust economy also make it attractive for professionals in finance, consultancy, and law.
Beyond finance, Zurich is also a growing hub for technology and innovation, with companies in industries such as AI, biotech, and green energy thriving. Companies like Novartis and Roche also offer roles in research, development, and management.
Zurich offers some of the highest salaries in Europe, reflecting the city’s wealth and standard of living. While the cost of living is undoubtedly high, competitive compensation often offsets this, making it a great destination for career advancement.
You’ll have to ensure you have the appropriate visa to work in Zurich, which is often arranged by your future employer. Switzerland prioritizes highly skilled workers in fields like technology, finance, and healthcare. Research visa requirements early and target companies experienced in hiring international talent.
So, is this the year you launch your relocation job search?
OR…
Do you have a remote job and your company will allow you to live in a different country?
Are you self-employed or a freelancer, ready to live in a new country?
If you are exploring the ‘Digital Nomad Visas’, some options grant residency for terms of 1-3 years before needing to renew and some have a path to citizenship. These are independent visas that require proof of your income and other documentation. Each country has different requirements.
If you’re keen on considering several European countries as a digital nomad, you will also have plenty of options. This Forbes article, Digital Nomad Visas in Europe With Low Monthly Income Requirements is a great start.
Book a consultation with Kelly Kugler today and learn how our team will help you live the life you want whether your goal is an employer-sponsored relocation or a Digital Nomad Visa. Kelly has personally experienced both and has been recruiting, hiring and relocating professionals for 20+ years.
We work together as coaches and specialists designing personalized coaching programs to help each of our clients, combining our collective expertise to give everyone the team of support they deserve.
Working abroad can be a transformative experience that can redefine your career and personal life. If you are considering working in a specific country, or would like tips for exploring opportunities abroad, book your free session with our team and let’s take the first step to your new life in Europe!
A bientôt ! Cheerio !
Rachel Meda
Rachel has lived and worked in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Thailand and Paris, France while hiring global talent for Sales, Commercial, Finance, HR and other corporate positions at all levels of seniority.across the markets of Europe, Dubai, APAC, South America and South Africa. She speaks fluent French and English and specializes in expat careers, and relocation job searches.
