Struggling to land a job abroad can feel like chasing a mirage—endless applications, ghosted emails, and stiff competition. You’re not alone if you’ve found yourself wondering: “Why is this so hard?” The truth? Searching for work in another country isn’t just about sending out resumes—it’s a strategic process with plenty of hidden hurdles. But once you understand why it’s tough, you can start turning things in your favor.
Let’s break down the five most common reasons expats and international job seekers can’t find jobs abroad—and how to overcome them.
1. You’re Competing in a Cutthroat Job Market
Think about cities like London, Berlin, or Amsterdam—these hubs attract global talent. You’re not just up against locals; you’re competing with thousands of highly skilled professionals from all over the world. Employers in these cities are spoiled for choice, often hiring only the top candidates from a massive applicant pool.
On the flip side, countries dealing with high unemployment (like Spain or Greece) also present challenges. With limited roles and a flood of applicants, even locals struggle to find work—making it harder for outsiders to break in.
How to level up in a competitive market:
- Keep applying consistently. Success often comes down to persistence and numbers.
- Leverage your network. Local connections can open doors that job boards won’t.
- Diversify your approach. Use less conventional methods like informational interviews, direct outreach, or attending local webinars.
2. Local Laws & Visa Regulations Work Against You
Here’s the hard truth: many companies prefer hiring locals because it’s easier. Hiring a foreigner often means paperwork, visa sponsorship, and legal risk. Countries like the UK, Switzerland, or Austria may seem attractive, but their immigration policies can be rigid, especially post-Brexit.
For example, in the UK, many job applications now filter out candidates who require visa sponsorship before a human even sees the resume.
How to navigate this challenge:
- Do your homework. Understand the work permit and visa landscape in your target country.
- Apply to international firms. Multinational companies are often better equipped—and more willing—to hire foreign workers.
- Look for roles specifically marked as “visa-sponsored.” These are more likely to welcome international talent.
3. Language Barriers Are Blocking Your Path
Even if you’re fluent in English, it might not be enough. In countries like France, Italy, Hungary, or Finland, many roles require fluency in the local language—even in multinational firms.
Yes, some companies operate in English, especially in Northern Europe. But if the job involves local clients, government work, or customer service, local language skills are often non-negotiable.
Here’s how to work around it:
- Start learning the language—now. Use apps, online classes, or language exchange meetups.
- Get certified. Language certifications add credibility to your resume.
- Target English-speaking roles in countries like the Netherlands, Ireland, Sweden, or Denmark where English proficiency is more widely accepted.
4. You Don’t Have a Local Network
In many countries, jobs aren’t advertised—they’re recommended. In cultures like Italy, Greece, or Japan, who you know can be more important than what you know. “Guanxi” in China or “kizuna” in Japan illustrates just how deeply ingrained personal connections are in hiring.
If you’re applying cold to job listings without any connections, you’re missing a crucial piece of the puzzle.
How to build your network from scratch:
- Use LinkedIn intentionally. Connect with professionals, recruiters, and alumni from your school.
- Join local expat or industry-specific groups. Look on Facebook, Meetup, or forums like Internations.
- Attend webinars, job fairs, and events. Whether virtual or in-person, they’re prime networking grounds.
5. Your Resume Isn’t Localized
One-size-fits-all resumes won’t cut it. In some countries, photo resumes are standard. In others, they’re discouraged. Some places expect ultra-detailed CVs (like Germany’s Lebenslauf), while others prefer brief, skills-focused formats.
Sending an English-only resume to a Spanish employer who expects a local-language CV? That might get you disqualified without a second look.
Tips to adapt your job application:
- Research local resume norms. A quick search or a chat with a local professional can save you weeks of frustration.
- Translate and localize. Even if the company operates in English, a local-language resume shows effort and cultural awareness.
- Seek feedback. Ask locals or expats who’ve succeeded in your target country to review your materials.
So, Where Can You Find Jobs More Easily as an Expat?
Some countries are more open and structured when it comes to hiring foreigners. If you’re flexible about where you go, consider focusing on these expat-friendly places:
- The Netherlands – High English proficiency, multicultural offices, and a strong tech scene.
- Ireland – Home to many global tech firms and open to skilled international professionals.
- Luxembourg – Nearly half the population are expats, especially in finance and public institutions.
- Portugal – A growing startup scene, friendly visa policies, and lower competition than big European hubs.
Whether you’re eyeing tech roles in the Netherlands, global firms in Ireland, or startup opportunities in Portugal, having expert guidance ensures a smoother, faster, and compliant hiring process.
Let a trusted recruitment agency in Pakistan for Luxembourg connect you to the right employers and opportunities.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling disheartened, don’t give up. Job hunting abroad is a challenge, but it’s also a growth opportunity. With the right strategies—understanding local norms, building connections, learning the language, and being persistent—you can overcome the odds.
Stay focused. Stay adaptable. Your dream job abroad is out there—and it might just be one connection or one application away.
