Employment of Ukrainians in Europe: in which countries does the highest percentage of Ukrainians work?

The European labor market integrates Ukrainian refugees in different ways, and the level of employment varies significantly between countries. Find out where it is easiest for Ukrainians to find work, why most work below their qualifications, and what really increases their chances of finding employment

Get advice from a lawyer on employment abroad

GET

As of mid-2025, 57% of Ukrainian refugees aged 20–64 in European countries have jobs, including self-employment and informal employment. At the same time, this figure is 22 percentage points lower than the average employment rate of citizens of the host countries. This is according to a study by the UNHCR.

The data shows significant differences between countries, as well as systemic problems faced by Ukrainians in European labor markets — from language barriers to jobs that are significantly below their level of education and experience.

Where Ukrainians most often find work in Europe

The highest employment rates among Ukrainian refugees are recorded in Central and Eastern European countries, as well as in countries with more flexible labor markets. The leading countries in terms of employment of Ukrainians are:

● Estonia — 72%

● Hungary — 71%

● United Kingdom — 69%

● Poland — 68%

● Bulgaria — 67%

● Czech Republic — 66%

● Netherlands — 64%

These countries combine active integration programs, demand for labor, and, in some cases, cultural and linguistic proximity, which makes it easier for Ukrainians to get started.

Countries with rates close to the average

In a number of countries, the employment rate of Ukrainians fluctuates around the European average but still remains lower than the employment rate of the local population. Close to the average:

● Spain — 61%

● Italy — 58%

● Lithuania — 57%

● France — 53%

● Romania — 50%

● Moldova — 46%

● Ireland — 46%

● Belgium — 46%

In these countries, employment is often complicated by language requirements, complex procedures for recognizing diplomas, and high competition for jobs.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Where is it most difficult for Ukrainians to find work?

The lowest employment rates are recorded in northern and some western European countries, where labor markets are more regulated. The lowest employment rates are in:

● Sweden — 43%

● Finland — 40%

● Denmark — 39%

● Germany — 39%

● Norway — 37%

● Switzerland — 29%

In these countries, language skills, complex professional certification systems, and high formal education requirements play a decisive role.

Work below qualifications: the main challenge for Ukrainians

A separate problem that experts point out is the huge mismatch between Ukrainians' education and the work they do. Almost 60% of employed Ukrainians work below their level of qualification. Among refugees with higher education, more than a third are employed in low-skilled positions. For comparison, among citizens of host countries, this figure is only 7%.

According to UN estimates, this mismatch is the key reason for the 40% gap in median wages between Ukrainian refugees and local workers.

What really increases the chances of finding a job

The study also shows which factors have the greatest impact on the successful employment of Ukrainians in Europe:

● Knowledge of the local language increases the likelihood of finding a job by 13 percentage points.

● Length of stay in the country: +10 percentage points after 1–2 years, +14 percentage points after 2–3 years, +20 percentage points after more than 3 years.

● Education: vocational education — +5 percentage points compared to secondary education, higher education — about +10 percentage points.

● Gender: men find employment 7 percentage points more often than women.

● Age: people aged 50–64 are 10 percentage points less likely to find a job

Practice shows that many problems with the employment of Ukrainians abroad are related not only to language or education, but also to the correct processing of documents, work permits, and recognition of qualifications. That is why, before entering the labor market or changing your status, it is advisable to consult with specialists in labor and migration law. On the Visit Ukraine platform, you can get advice from lawyers on employment abroad and avoid common mistakes that cost time and income.

We remind you! The level of minimum wages in the EU in 2026 varies significantly depending on the country and purchasing power. Read about where the highest wages are paid, in which countries incomes have not grown, and what this means for Ukrainians planning to work in Europe.

Photo: shutterstock

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2026, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.