Working abroad

Advance your career with a work experience abroad!

Do you want to gain valuable work experience and embark on a life-changing journey? Try working abroad!

By immersing yourself in a different culture, you will develop new skills, discover career paths, and make professional connections around the world. Many programmes support your international work experience abroad, from short-term internships to job placements.

Learn more in our Euro-Brochure on Working Abroad and explore your options on the Eurodesk Opportunity Finder!

Young person using a power drill during a hands-on activity, surrounded by the words “Gain skills,” “Learn,” “Confidence” and “Network.”
Young person using a power drill during a hands-on activity, surrounded by the words “Gain skills,” “Learn,” “Confidence” and “Network.”

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Work exchange

Exchange a few hours of work and discover the world

Are you eager to explore new cultures while gaining valuable skills? Why not embark on a work exchange?

Work exchange programmes allow you to trade your time and skills in exchange for accommodation, and sometimes meals and perks. Placements with farms, eco-projects, and local initiatives usually last from a few weeks to several months.

It’s a great opportunity if your goal is to travel worldwide, gain practical experience, and engage more deeply with local communities. Perfect for travellers seeking a meaningful gap year on a budget!

Discover the latest opportunities on the Eurodesk Opportunity Finder.

Au pair

Live in a host family abroad

Dreaming of experiencing a new culture while caring for children? Become an au pair and join a host family.

Au pair programmes are cultural exchanges where young adults live with a host family in a foreign country while providing childcare and light household assistance for 6 to 24 months. 

Being an au pair is a great opportunity to gain work and life experience in another country while learning the local language. Different websites propose au pair opportunities. Be sure to check the conditions before signing up!

Discover the latest opportunities on the Eurodesk Opportunity Finder.

Internships

Take your career to the next level

Are you looking forward to boosting your career? Employers usually highly value doing an internship abroad. Why not add such an experience to your CV? 

Internships abroad can help you improve your skills while providing an unforgettable life experience. 

If you are a student, Erasmus+ offers opportunities to do an internship during or just after your studies. Consult your university’s international office for more information.

Consider applying for traineeships at EU institutions and international organisations. They can offer a significant career boost and lead to future employment within those bodies. You will find many in our database.

Discover the latest opportunities on the Eurodesk Opportunity Finder and get more information on the European Youth Portal.

Entrepreneurship

Learn from experienced professionals

Do you have a business idea but are still unsure where to start? Why not learn from experienced entrepreneurs abroad? 

Entrepreneurship programmes offer hands-on experience for aspiring entrepreneurs abroad. 

If you’re a student or recent graduate, the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme allows you to work alongside experienced business owners in another country for 1 to 6 months. You will acquire practical skills for running a small business while expanding your professional network across borders.

For those seeking a longer-term experience, consider applying to accelerator programmes or incubators with an international focus. They often provide mentorship, funding, and resources to help launch your startup idea in a foreign market. 

Discover the latest opportunities on the Eurodesk Opportunity Finder and get more information on the European Youth Portal.

NEED HELP?

Whether you have a specific project in mind or are open to new experiences, Eurodesk mobility advisors are here for you! You will find your nearest Eurodesk info point on our interactive map.

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