Europe is a strong market for graduates in tech, finance and engineering, but work permits differ by country. This is an overview; always check the official source for the country you're targeting.
EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for university graduates with a qualifying job offer. Each country sets a minimum salary, with a lower threshold for shortage occupations such as many IT roles. Germany publishes its current thresholds on Make it in Germany. CareerYard marks German roles whose posted pay meets the Blue Card level.
The Netherlands: highly skilled migrants
Dutch employers must be "recognised sponsors" with the IND to hire most non-EU professionals under the highly skilled migrant scheme. The IND publishes the public register, and we flag listed employers on their jobs.
United Kingdom: Skilled Worker visa
UK employers need a sponsor licence to hire on the Skilled Worker route, and there are salary and skill requirements. The government publishes the register of licensed sponsors. Recent graduates of UK universities may also be eligible for the Graduate route. See GOV.UK: Skilled Worker visa.
Practical tips
- Check whether the role needs a local language; many tech roles in Berlin, Amsterdam and London work in English.
- Pay is usually quoted as a gross yearly salary. Compare it with the local cost of living, not with US numbers.
- Ask about relocation support and whether the company has sponsored people in your situation before.