Can you work abroad without experience?
Leandra
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7 minutes Reading time
A lot of people dream about starting a new life abroad, but think they don’t have enough experience yet. Maybe you have worked part-time, just finished your studies, taken a gap year or simply want something new. It is easy to assume that international companies only hire people with long CVs and years of office experience.
The reality is often very different.
You do not always need previous experience to start working abroad. Many employers hiring through our platform focus first on your language skills, motivation and willingness to relocate. For most entry-level jobs abroad, training is provided after you start. That means your first serious job can also be your first move abroad. If you are looking through our vacancies and wondering whether you are qualified enough, this blog is for you.
Yes, you can work abroad without experience
Many of the jobs on our platform are suitable for beginners, career changers or people ready for a fresh start. In customer-focused roles especially, companies have well-structured training programs that guide you through system setup and prepare you for your daily tasks. So they focus less on your background and more on whether you can communicate clearly, stay calm under pressure and learn quickly.
For example, if you have worked in retail, hospitality or any role where you engaged with customers, that experience is already valuable. Even organising projects during your studies or balancing work with university can show responsibility and time management. So if your CV feels light, that does not automatically mean your chances are low.
Best beginner-friendly jobs abroad by destination
Instead of only looking at job titles, it often helps to look at the destination too. Some countries are especially popular for starters because the vacancies are beginner-friendly and support with relocation is often included.
Work in Portugal without experience
Portugal is one of the most popular choices for people starting their first job abroad. Many vacancies are based in Lisbon and Porto, with a strong demand for roles in:
You may help customers with online orders, answer account questions by chat or phone, review online content or speak with clients about products and services. A big advantage is that many vacancies include your flight to Portugal, and accommodation is often fully included. That can remove two of the biggest worries people have before moving abroad.
Lisbon is known for its international atmosphere, sunny weather and lively social scene. Porto offers a slightly calmer pace, beautiful riverside views and a relaxed lifestyle.
Portugal can be a strong option if you want practical relocation support and a smooth first step abroad.
Ready for a fresh start? Explore our jobs in Portugal and discover your next opportunity. 🇵🇹
Work in Greece without experience
Greece is another strong choice for beginners looking for something new. Many vacancies are based in Athens and Thessaloniki, with a strong demand for roles in:
Depending on the role, you may support customers in your native language, solve account issues or help clients with services and subscriptions. Many vacancies include your flight, and the first month of accommodation is often provided. This gives you time to arrive, settle in and search for longer-term housing without pressure.
Athens offers city energy, history and sunny weather. Thessaloniki is known for its waterfront lifestyle, student atmosphere and friendly social scene. If you prefer more freedom, some remote jobs in Greece allow you to live in any city or island you like. That means you could choose places such as Crete, Rhodes or a quieter coastal town. Keep in mind that with remote roles, you are usually responsible for arranging accommodation yourself from day one. For people who want support when relocating or flexibility in where they live, Greece is often a very attractive option.
Want to start somewhere new? Check our jobs in Greece and see which role suits you best. 🇬🇷
Work in Spain without experience
Spain remains a favourite for candidates who want sunshine, city life and a strong work-life balance. Many vacancies are based in Valencia, Malaga and Alicante, with a strong demand for roles in:
Cities such as Valencia are especially popular because they combine beach life with a modern city atmosphere. Some vacancies are also hybrid jobs in Spain, which means you do not always need to live in a big city close to the office. This can give you the freedom to live in a quieter town or coastal area while still enjoying regular office days. For many people, Spain feels like a lifestyle move as much as a career move.
Looking for career opportunities? Explore our jobs in Spain and find your next adventure. 🇪🇸
What counts as experience for jobs abroad?
Even experiences outside work can matter. Studying abroad, volunteering, organising projects or balancing studies with responsibilities can all show independence, organisation and adaptability. So no, experience does not only mean years in an office.
How the application process for jobs abroad usually works
Applying for jobs abroad is often simpler than people expect. In most cases, the process follows a clear path:
- You pick a vacancy and apply with your up to date cv
- A recruiter reviews your profile
- You may have an introductory call or screening
- You get an interview with the employer
- You receive an offer
- You prepare for relocation
For some roles, the process can move quickly, especially if you are flexible with your start date and ready to relocate soon.
What support can be included in jobs abroad?
Many candidates worry more about moving abroad than about the job itself. The good news is that some vacancies offer practical support to make the move easier. Depending on the vacancy, this can include:
- Flight to your new destination
- Pickup service from airport
- Temporary accommodation
- Help with paperwork
- Relocation guidance
- Healthcare included
- Career growth opportunities after onboarding
- Bonus
This always depends on the employer and destination, so it is important to read the vacancy details carefully.
Is working abroad without experience worth it?
For most people? Absolutely. Working in a new country teaches you more than any CV course ever could. You pick up real work experience, improve your language skills and learn how to navigate a completely different work culture, often within just a few months. And on top of that, you become more independent, more adaptable and a better problem-solver almost without noticing.
The personal growth is real too. You build confidence, make friends from all over the world and prove to yourself that you're capable of more than you thought. And recruiters notice. International work experience on your CV is always a plus, it shows you're proactive, flexible and not afraid to step outside your comfort zone. In a competitive job market, that really does make a difference.
Final thought
You do not need the perfect CV before you begin. Many people start with little experience and grow quickly once they get the opportunity.
There are beginner-friendly jobs abroad available right now in Portugal, Greece, Spain and even more. Some include flights, accommodation support and training, making the move much easier than many people expect.
Explore our vacancies abroad and discover which destination could be your next step.🧡