Deciding to work abroad is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t speak the local language.
This is one of the most common concerns among international job seekers. Whether you're considering a move to Portugal, Greece, or anywhere else in Europe, language often feels like a barrier too big to overcome. But the truth is, you don’t need to be fluent to make your dream of working abroad come true. Let’s break down how you can overcome this hurdle with confidence.
🌍 Step 1: Focus on English-speaking jobs
Many international companies operate entirely in English, especially in roles like:
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Customer support
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Sales
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Marketing
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IT
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Gaming and tourism
You’ll often find job listings that say things like “English speakers welcome” or “No local language required.” These companies are used to hiring people from abroad and have training and onboarding systems in place to help you succeed.
Look for job titles that include your native language, such as "German-speaking Customer Support" or "Dutch Sales Representative." Countries like Portugal, Greece, Malta, and the Netherlands are especially friendly to English-speaking workers and often offer relocation packages.
🧠 Step 2: Learn the basics (fast!)
You don’t need to be fluent before moving. Start by learning everyday phrases—just enough to:
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Say hello 👋
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Order coffee ☕
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Ask for directions 🗺️
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Greet your coworkers 🤝
Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Memrise can help you get started. Pair that with real-life exposure: change your phone language settings, watch local YouTubers with subtitles, or follow local influencers.
Language learning doesn’t have to be formal. Even listening to music, watching TV shows with subtitles, or chatting with native speakers online can accelerate your progress.
🧳 Step 3: Let your native language work for you
If you speak German, Dutch, French, Italian, or Swedish, your language skills are in high demand for customer-facing roles abroad—even if you don’t speak the local language.
Multilingual companies prioritize native-level fluency in your own language, and your role will often involve helping customers from your country or region. In many cases, speaking the local language is not even required!
Highlight your language skills in your CV and interviews—especially if you can speak multiple languages. This can open up more job opportunities and help you stand out.
🤝 Step 4: Join expat communities
You’re not alone. Thousands of people move abroad every year without speaking the local language.
Join online expat communities and forums like Internations, Meetup, or Facebook groups for your target city. These platforms offer:
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Real advice from people who’ve been in your shoes
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Networking opportunities and local job tips
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Emotional support when culture shock hits
You can even find language exchange partners or attend local events for newcomers. Building a community makes adapting much easier.
🛠️ Step 5: Get support from your employer
Many international companies understand that relocation comes with challenges. That’s why they offer:
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Free or subsidized language classes
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Relocation assistance (flights, housing, paperwork)
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Mentorship programs with other expats
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Onboarding processes in English
Be sure to ask your recruiter or HR contact about the support they provide. Even a small effort on their part can make a huge difference in how quickly you adapt to your new home.
✅ Final thoughts
Not speaking the language doesn’t mean you can’t move abroad.
Every year, thousands of people build new lives in countries where they didn’t speak the language at first—and you can too.
All it takes is a little research, a proactive mindset, and a willingness to learn. You don’t have to be perfect, just open-minded. You’ll be amazed how much you can pick up once you’re living and working in a new country.
Let your international career journey begin—with or without perfect language skills.
