Europe continues to experience one of the largest labor shortages in modern history. With aging populations, declining birth rates, and growing industries, many European countries urgently need foreign workers — even those without a university degree.

In 2026, thousands of companies across Europe are actively hiring international workers for high-demand, well-paying roles that require skills, experience, or basic training — not necessarily higher education.

This guide explores the top high-demand jobs in Europe for foreigners without a degree, which countries are hiring the most, salary expectations, visa options, and how to increase your chances of getting hired in 2026.

Why Europe Needs Workers Without Degrees

Several factors have created a massive demand for non-degree workers:

• Many Europeans prefer office jobs over manual or service roles

• Huge shortages in construction, logistics, and hospitality

• Post-pandemic workforce changes

• Reduced immigration from neighboring countries

• Rapid economic expansion in certain sectors

As a result, Europe now welcomes foreign workers of all education levels.

Top High-Demand Jobs in Europe (No Degree Required)

Below are the most in-demand jobs across Europe that you can apply for without a university degree.

1. Warehouse and Logistics Workers

Logistics is one of Europe’s fastest-growing industries due to online shopping and global trade.

Responsibilities:

• Sorting packages

• Packing shipments

• Operating forklifts

• Inventory management

Countries hiring:

• Germany

• Netherlands

• Poland

• Czech Republic

• Belgium

Average Salary:

1,800–2,500 EUR per month

2. Truck Drivers (HGV Drivers)

One of the biggest shortages in Europe is professional truck drivers.

Requirements:

• Training course

• Driving license

• Basic physical fitness

Countries hiring:

• Germany

• Ireland

• UK

• Romania

• Sweden

Average Salary:

2,200–3,500 EUR per month (more with overtime)

3. Construction Workers

Europe’s construction industry needs thousands of foreign workers for residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.

Job types:

• Bricklayers

• Plumbers

• Welders

• Electricians

• General laborers

Countries hiring:

• Denmark

• Germany

• Norway

• Finland

• Switzerland

Average Salary:

2,200–4,000 EUR per month depending on skill level

4. Hospitality and Restaurant Workers

Tourism remains one of Europe’s strongest industries.

Roles available:

• Waiters

• Cleaners

• Housekeepers

• Bartenders

• Kitchen assistants

Countries hiring:

• Spain

• Italy

• Portugal

• Greece

• Malta

Average Salary:

1,500–2,400 EUR per month

5. Caregivers and Nursing Assistants

Aging populations across Europe have created a large need for home care workers.

Responsibilities:

• Assisting elderly people

• Light household duties

• Basic medical support (training provided)

Countries hiring:

• Germany

• Ireland

• UK

• Sweden

Average Salary:

1,900–2,800 EUR per month

6. Cleaners and Maintenance Workers

Cleaning jobs are always in high demand in offices, hotels, hospitals, and schools.

Countries hiring:

• Netherlands

• Belgium

• France

• Luxembourg

Average Salary:

1,600–2,300 EUR per month

7. Farm Workers and Agricultural Laborers

Europe’s agriculture industry relies heavily on seasonal and full-time foreign workers.

Roles include:

• Fruit picking

• Greenhouse work

• Livestock care

• Machine operation

Countries hiring:

• Spain

• Italy

• Netherlands

• Poland

• Finland

Average Salary:

1,400–2,200 EUR per month

8. Factory and Production Workers

Manufacturing is one of Europe’s biggest industries.

Responsibilities:

• Operating machines

• Assembly line work

• Packaging

• Quality control

Countries hiring:

• Czech Republic

• Germany

• Slovenia

• Hungary

• Poland

Average Salary:

1,700–2,600 EUR per month

9. Retail and Customer Service Workers

Retail chains across Europe hire international staff due to constant shortages.

Duties:

• Assisting customers

• Stocking shelves

• Operating cash registers

Countries hiring:

• Germany

• UK

• Sweden

• Ireland

Average Salary:

1,700–2,400 EUR per month

10. Airport and Ground Handling Staff

Airports across Europe need foreign staff for daily operations.

Roles:

• Baggage handlers

• Check-in agents

• Aircraft cleaners

• Security support

Countries hiring:

• Germany

• Netherlands

• France

• Austria

Average Salary:

1,900–2,800 EUR per month

Countries in Europe That Hire the Most Foreign Workers Without Degrees

Below are the easiest and most welcoming countries for non-degree workers in 2026.

Germany

• Huge shortage in logistics, caregiving, and construction

• Offers multiple work visa types for non-degree workers

Netherlands

• High demand in warehouses, agriculture, cleaning, and hospitality

Poland

• One of the easiest work visas in Europe

• Large manufacturing and logistics industries

Czech Republic

• Growing automotive and factory production

• Visa sponsorship for foreign workers

Spain

• Major tourism sector

• Hospitality jobs widely available

Ireland

• Strong demand in logistics, retail, caregiving, and services

European Work Visa Options for Non-Degree Workers

You do not need a degree for these visas:

General Work Permit

Most European countries issue work permits based on job offers.

Seasonal Work Visa

For agriculture, tourism, and hospitality roles.

Skilled Trades Visa

Carpenters, welders, electricians, and plumbers qualify without university degrees.

Shortage Occupation Visa

Countries list jobs experiencing shortages and hire faster.

EU Long-Term Work Visa (after years of residence)

With work experience, you can apply for permanent residency later.

Salary Expectations in Europe for Non-Degree Workers

Salaries vary by country, experience, and skill level.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Job

Learn Basic English or Local Language

Most jobs require basic communication skills.

Create a Strong CV

Highlight physical ability, reliability, and experience.

Apply to Companies That Sponsor Foreign Workers

Many European employers support work visa applications.

Get Training or Certificates

Forklift training, first aid, caregiving courses, or driving licenses increase your chances.

Avoid Scammers

Apply only through genuine companies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a degree to work in Europe?

No. Many high-demand jobs do not require university education.

Can I get a work visa without experience?

Yes, for some roles, but experience improves your chances.

Is Europe safe for foreign workers?

Yes. Most European countries offer strong worker protections.

Can I bring my family later?

Usually yes, after securing a long-term work contract.

Conclusion

Europe’s labor market in 2026 offers an unprecedented opportunity for foreigners without university degrees. With massive shortages in logistics, hospitality, construction, caregiving, and factory work, there are thousands of jobs waiting to be filled.

By choosing the right country, preparing a strong application, and targeting high-demand sectors, you can successfully move to Europe, earn a stable income, and even build a long-term career leading to permanent residency.