Here at Remitly, we realize that moving to Europe can be both exciting and challenging. So we’ve assembled an in-depth set of guides as part of our Without Borders series to help you out. Our carefully curated city guides provide insights to help you decide where to settle next, covering healthcare, education, visa requirements, finances, banking, and more.
Many of our writers are sharing firsthand experiences and insider tips. So, whether you gravitate towards Lisbon’s bohemian charm or Berlin’s pulsating nightlife, your European adventure starts here.
Moving to Europe Starts Here
Moving to Austria
Being the birthplace of classical music, Austria is a Central European gem that harmoniously combines its history with cutting-edge modernity. It’s well-known for its coffee-house culture and Alpine sports. Thanks to its high quality of life and breathtaking landscapes, Austria entices both nature and culture enthusiasts to move there.
Austrian city guides
- Settling in Graz: Get to know this UNESCO City of Design, where ornate Renaissance and baroque architecture sit alongside bold, contemporary buildings. After Vienna, Graz is Austria’s second-largest city with a lively student scene, strong culinary heritage, and creative energy.
Moving to Belgium
Belgium is the headquarters of the European Union, a country with a long history at the hub of Europe’s political scene. At around 33,600 square kilometers, this compact kingdom offers an admirable standard of living. From its medieval towns to cosmopolitan cities, Belgium lures immigrants with a blend of tradition and contemporary living.
Belgian city guides
- Settling in Ghent: This Flemish gem is where old-world architecture hosts a thriving student population. Visitors flock to Ghent for its picturesque network of canals and waterways, earning it the nickname “Belgium’s best-kept secret.” You can also expect massive public squares and marketplaces.
Moving to the Czech Republic
A country with a rich history—with over 2,000 castles, more than any other European country— stunning architecture, and fertile lands, the Czech Republic offers Central European charm and modern convenience. From Prague’s whimsical streets to Brno’s cafe culture, Czechia as it’s now known is a welcoming destination for immigrants seeking an undeniably chill lifestyle.
Czech city guides
- Settling in Brno: Travel off the beaten path by spending time in Brno, often called the “Czech Silicon Valley” for its many startups. Also known for its efficient tram-train system, the university city has both medieval and big city character. Brno provides an ideal quality of life for those seeking an authentic Czech lifestyle.
Moving to Estonia
Officially called Eesti Vabariik, this Baltic treasure is among the most advanced digital societies in the world. Home to renowned companies like Skype and Bolt, Estonia’s growing technological prowess attracts many digital nomads and startup enthusiasts. Equally impressive are the country’s connection to nature and flourishing sauna culture.
Estonian city guides
- Settling in Tallinn: Tallinn is one one of the best-preserved cities in Europe, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town. While wandering down the cobblestone roads, you may feel like you’re walking into a medieval fairytale. But in contrast, the Ülemiste City Tech Park showcases the city’s place as a modern hub of digital business.
Moving to France
Experience a nation celebrated for its cultural heritage, distinctive gastronomy, and exceptional quality of life. Each region in France tells a captivating story, from the vineyards of Bordeaux to the lavender fields of Provence. Thousands of immigrants move to France yearly in pursuit of its work-life balance.
French city guides
- Settling in Nantes: Welcome to the capital of the Loire-Atlantique region, a city with a rich maritime heritage. Once a significant global port, Nantes has reinvented itself as a hub for sustainable city living; in 2019, it became the European Capital of Innovation.
Healthcare in France
- How to Get Health Insurance in France: Understand the French healthcare system and options available for both public and private health insurance coverage.
French visa information
- France Relocation Guide: Check out our guide to relocating to France to help you start your new life here.
- How to Find a Job in France: We’ve looked into some strategies and resources for navigating the French job market and securing a work visa.
Finance tips in France
- How to Open a Bank Account in France for Non-Residents: Find out more about French banking requirements and the process for setting up your finances.
- How to File Taxes in France: Gain insights into the French tax system and understand your fiscal resident obligations.
- 10 Great Money-Saving Tips When Living in France: Discover useful ways to save money in France.
- 4 Best Banks for Non-Residents in France: Compare top banking options in France tailored for newcomers.
- Cost of Living in France: Take a look at typical living expenses in France to help you budget effectively.
Moving to Germany
As Europe’s largest economy, vibrant Germany is innovative, historic and multicultural. Its strong job market, world-class education system, and high standard of living inspire thousands of non-EU citizens to call Germany home. In 2023 alone, nearly 2 million people migrated to Germany, the majority being Ukrainian and Turkish.
German city guides
- Settling in Berlin: Berlin has an eclectic atmosphere that has seen historic artifacts from the Soviet Union become public street art. Between the city’s many museums, diverse neighborhoods, round-the-clock energy, and inclusive spirit, Berlin is truly unlike any other city in the world.
- Settling in Leipzig: Often dubbed “the New Berlin,” Leipzig boasts an exciting musical heritage, a thriving arts scene, and a growing startup ecosystem. The city also ensures affordable living costs and youthful energy, making it equally attractive to Germans and internationals.
Education in Germany
- How to Study in Germany for Free: Take advantage of tuition-free education at German universities and learn about the application process.
German visa information
- Getting a Volunteer Visa in Germany: Review the process and requirements for obtaining a German volunteer visa.
- How to Get a Digital Nomad Visa in Germany: Read about Germany’s freelance visa option for digital nomads and remote workers.
Finance tips in Germany
- How to File Taxes as a Non-resident in Germany: Begin to grasp the German tax obligations as a non-resident.
- Cost of Living in Germany: A comprehensive overview of expenses in German cities to help you stay on budget.
Moving to the Netherlands
This low-lying kingdom embodies progressive thinking, entrepreneurial spirit, and work-life balance. For example, a standard work schedule ranges from 29 to 36 hours a week. The Netherlands’ open culture, modern infrastructure, and international outlook incentivize everyone from corporate professionals to ambitious artists to relocate.
Dutch city guides
- Settling in Amsterdam: Dive into the capital’s iconic streets and canals, where Golden Age architecture meets sophisticated urban design. Amsterdam’s cosmopolitan vibe, cycling culture, and famous museums guarantee a full experience every weekend. Two of the most famous museums in Amsterdam are the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.
Finance tips in the Netherlands
- How to File Taxes as a Nonresident in the Netherlands: Go over how to file Dutch taxes during your residency.
Moving to Norway
This affluent Scandinavian kingdom provides sustainability, unparalleled natural beauty and social equity. Add that to outdoor recreation options and high living standards, it’s understandable why many people move here.
Norwegian city guides
- Settling in Bergen: Nestled among seven mountains and fjords, Bergen charms people with its colorful Hanseatic wharf and active commerce areas. It’s also the gateway to Norway’s stunning western coastline, with no shortage of astonishing views and whale-watching opportunities.
Moving to Portugal
Founded in 1143, Portugal is the oldest nation-state on the continent. Beyond just heritage, the country is known for its laid-back lifestyle, warm climate, affordable living, and burgeoning digital nomad scene. Portugal also has one of the fastest pathways to citizenship in Europe.
Portuguese city guides
- Settling in Lisbon: Explore the capital’s seven hills overlooking the Atlantic, where popular attractions include old-fashioned trams and mouthwatering pastries. Throughout the city, you will find walls adorned with intricate tiles, “azulejos,” an integral part of local architecture. There are beaches nearby and strong Mediterranean influences, making Lisbon a one-of-a-kind choice to settle in.
- Settling in Porto: Founded along the Douro River in the medieval age, Porto is known for its port wine and well-preserved river district. Home to numerous elegant bridges, it features a UNESCO-listed city center, and many beautiful churches. Porto is a city that cherishes tradition while still welcoming newcomers.
Portuguese visa information
- How to Get a Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal: Apply for the D7 Passive Income Visa to secure your path to remote work in Portugal. The main requirements are proof of stable income and health insurance.
Moving to Slovenia
Slovenia may be small, but it offers extraordinarily varied landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to sun-drenched coastlines. Strategically located between Western Europe and the Balkans, it’s a country whose commitment to sustainability and outdoor recreation caters to nature enthusiasts and urbanites alike. Great food, too.
Slovenian city guides
- Settling in Ljubljana: Venture throughout the capital’s pedestrian-friendly center and experience its eclectic arts scene. Ljubljana feels like an open-air museum, with its well-preserved Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture. No matter where you go, expect a picturesque backdrop, flourishing café culture, and riverside charm.
Moving to Spain
Immerse yourself in a culture with centuries-old traditions, celebrations, and beloved cuisine across every region. From the sun-drenched Costa del Sol to the verdant hills of Galicia, Spain can be a home for people of every taste, so is unsurprisingly a popular relocation destination.
Spanish city guides
- Settling in Alicante: Uncover the charms of this Mediterranean community, renowned for its beaches, historic old town, and cultural festivities. Like most Spanish cities, Alicante has a busy festival schedule, especially with the annual Hogueras de San Juan. Every June, the city puts on a spectacular display of large-scale sculptures, bonfires, and fireworks.
Healthcare in Spain
- How to Get Health Insurance in Spain: Spain’s renowned healthcare system makes public and private healthcare options available to residents.
Education in Spain
- Education in Spain: Here’s our guide to Spain’s education system, including public, private, and international schools for all grade levels.
Spanish visa information
- Getting a Volunteer Visa in Spain: Find out how to volunteer in Spain with this particular visa.
- How To Get a Digital Nomad Visa In Spain: Madrid and Barcelona in particular are entrepreneurial hubs; follow our essential steps for Spain’s digital nomad visa and its application process.
Finance tips in Spain
- Banking in Spain: Receive practical advice on managing your finances in Spain, including opening bank accounts and understanding local banking practices.
- How to File Taxes in Spain: Acquire knowledge about the Spanish tax system and your obligations as a foreign resident.
Cultural insights in Spain
- Spain Relocation Guide: Familiarize yourself with local customs, social norms, and etiquette to help you integrate smoothly into Spanish society.
- 8 Essential Apps for Immigrants Living in Spain: Download the best apps for moving to Spain to help navigate daily life. For example, apps for language learning, public transportation, and local services.