There are so many inspiring stories of Kenyans moving abroad. From Stephen Sunday, a bus driver in Germany, to Aisha, an entrepreneur in the UK, they followed their dreams and made them come true, and you can do it, too. In this article, we will explain how to find a job in Europe, share some tips, and try to give you the courage to become a professional and live a happy life abroad.
Kenyans in Europe
Build your personal brand
Deal with the formalities
Tips for finding jobs outside Kenya
Kenyans in Europe
The Kenyan diaspora in European countries is growing year by year. Expats search for jobs outside Kenya for obvious reasons: to support their families, earn higher salaries, and find new opportunities. According to 2020 statistics, most migrants choose the UK as their final destination in Europe.
This year, one of the European countries opened its doors to Kenyans. Can you guess which one? Germany! Two countries made a special labour migration deal, which welcomes skilled and semi-skilled Kenyan workers into the country. The tendency shows that it’s getting easier for Kenyans to blend into European life, so let’s explore how to find a job in Europe. Did this inspire you to move to Germany? Find out how to make a perfect CV for local companies.
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Build your personal brand
Searching for jobs abroad for Kenyan citizens is all about proving that you’re worth it. Staying competitive is the key, and here’s what you must consider.
Learning local language
If you have a specific country in mind, mastering its language will make you more attractive to employers. In Europe, jobs for foreigners sometimes require proof of the language, so consider passing an official exam.
Using LinkedIn
Europeans are crazy about LinkedIn accounts. If you're aiming for a high-skilled position, your LinkedIn account should be active. Connect with people, show that you're competent by posting and commenting, and stay professional.
LinkedIn is not so important for foreigners looking for unskilled jobs in Europe, but having it may play a big role in your future.
Gaining experience
Having previous job experience increases your chances; no one argues with that. But what if you don’t have any? Try unpaid internships: easy to get, you shouldn't work all day in most cases, and they still count as job experience. Find a remote option and then ask your company how to find a job in Europe with your background. Plus, volunteer and participate in contests in your field of interest.
Overall, jobs in Europe are possible to get for Kenyan citizens; you just need confidence and preparation.
Deal with the formalities
The safest way to migrate to Europe is to have a job offer and apply for a Work Visa. On the other hand, there’s an option to apply for a Job Search Opportunity Visa in some countries. Here’s some information about visas for jobs abroad for Kenyan citizens.
Countries
Germany, Sweden, Portugal, and Finland are popular European countries offering work visas or job-seeker visas for skilled workers. These countries provide job seeker visas, where skilled migrants can enter and look for employment on-site within a specific period. So when looking for jobs in Europe for Kenyan citizens, consider these countries as convenient options.
Requirements
Typically, applicants need a job offer from an employer or a recognised skill shortage in the host country. For example, Germany’s "Opportunity Card" (Chancekarte) and similar initiatives in Sweden require proof of professional qualifications, sufficient financial means, and, in some cases, language proficiency. Document requirements generally include proof of education, work experience, financial stability, and health insurance coverage. Prepare all these documents and apply — jobs in Europe await!
General information
Each country maintains specific visa types for work, such as the Type D visa for employment in many Schengen countries. Consequently, the answer to “How to find a job in Europe” may differ from country to country. Many countries have job portals and partnerships with Kenyan institutions to streamline hiring and ensure ethical employment standards. Jobs in Europe in sectors like healthcare and IT are particularly in demand, providing greater opportunities for those with skills.
Tips for finding jobs outside Kenya
To sum up, read some valuable tips on how to find a job in Europe.
Identify high-demand sectors: Start by researching European jobs for foreigners in sectors like healthcare, IT, construction, and agriculture. Many European countries face labour shortages in these areas and often prioritise work visas for people with these skills.
Target countries with Worker Shortage Agreements: Some European countries have agreements with Kenya for specific sectors. For instance, Germany and Finland often seek Kenyan healthcare and logistics professionals, making it easier to secure jobs abroad for Kenyan citizens.
Find unskilled job opportunities: If you’re looking for unskilled jobs in Europe for foreigners, countries like Poland, Italy, and Portugal often hire foreigners for seasonal work in agriculture, hospitality, and construction. Look for recruitment agencies specialising in hiring foreigners or seasonal workers in Europe. Short-term, unskilled work visas can be a stepping stone to a long-term stay or further opportunities in Europe. Learn how to apply for a job in Poland in our article.
Look into trainee and internship opportunities: Internships and training programs can be excellent entry points for securing jobs in Europe for Kenyan citizens.
Conclusion
Finding a job abroad for Kenyan citizens requires strategic planning and an understanding of the requirements of each country. Prioritise countries with job-seeker visas and labour agreements, and leverage resources like online job portals and recruitment agencies. With determination, persistence, and a targeted approach, Kenyans can access numerous European jobs for foreigners, from skilled positions to unskilled seasonal work opportunities. Once you move to your dream country, support loved ones back home with secure Profee transfers.
