When we think about leaving our homeland, the question that comes to mind is always the same: Which is the best country in Europe to live in? It is not an easy decision at all.
Who we are Venezuelans we know what it means to start from scratch, far from the family, from the flavours of home, from those wonderful Venezuelan beachesBut we also know that we have a lot to learn. emigrate is often a matter of necessity, of seeking a future with greater stability, security and opportunities.
EuropeThe region, with its diversity of cultures and ways of life, is one of the most attractive destinations for us.
But of course, which is the best country in Europe to live in if you are Venezuelan? It is not enough to just look at the map and jump in. You have to consider many factors such as the ease of obtaining residency, employment opportunities, quality of life, costs, access to health and education, and something very important for us, the presence of a Venezuelan community that makes us feel at home.
What factors determine which is the best country in Europe to live in?
Before talking about countries, it is essential to understand what makes a place the best place for us. Not all of us are looking for the same thing. But in general, as Venezuelans we have experienced uncertainty, we tend to prioritise:
- Ease of regularisation of our situationSome countries have long and complicated processes, while others offer options such as asylum, visas for workers, students, or social roots.
- Employment opportunitiesThe most important thing is not only the quantity of offers, but also the quality of the jobs, the salary and the possibilities for promotion. Sectors such as hospitality, technology, logistics or health are often the most accessible for those who emigrate.
- Quality of lifeThe following are some of the aspects that define the European Union: street safety, efficient public transport, green spaces, access to culture, air quality, and so on. daily well-being. We are looking for countries where life is not just about working to survive, but where we can breathe and enjoy ourselves.
- Cost of living: know which is the best country in Europe to live in also involves understanding whether our income will be enough to live comfortably. Rent, food, transport, basic services... Everything counts.
- Access to quality public health and education: to have quality public health and accessible education is key when looking at what is the best country in Europe to live in. We need places where we have decent health care and training opportunities for ourselves and our families.
- Presence of a Latin or Venezuelan communityThere is nothing like meeting other compatriots who have already travelled the road. A ... vibrant community helps us not to feel alone, to receive advice, emotional support and even job opportunities. Knowing that there are people who understand us is a huge relief.
With these criteria in mind, we will review which is the best country in Europe to live in being Venezuelan.
Spain
For many of us, the most common answer to the question of which is the best country in Europe to live in being Venezuelan is Spain.
Mainly, and not coincidentally, the language unites us, the culture is similar, and there is one of the most important Venezuelan communities largest in Europe. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia or Malaga are full of compatriots who have already made their lives there and can help us with open arms.
In terms of ease of regularisationSpain offers several options, from the asylum application (although this is becoming increasingly difficult), up to the residency by social roots or the possibility to apply for the nationality after only two years of legal residence.
The labour market is competitive, but there are opportunities in hospitality, retail, logistics, customer service and technical professions. The cost of living varies from city to city, for example, living in Madrid or Barcelona It tends to be expensive (although if you go to the outskirts of the capital it is usually much cheaper), but in smaller cities you can live a decent life with fewer resources.
The public health is one of the best in Europeas well as the education. And, above all, in Spain It is easier to feel "at home", thanks to the cultural proximity.
Portugal
Another country that stands out is Portugal. Many Venezuelans have found in this country an alternative to Spain, with a quieter pace of life and slightly more affordable but somewhat similar prices.
Lisbon and Porto most of the job opportunities, but there are also Venezuelans at Algarve and other regions. Portugal offers programmes of residence for immigrantsCitizenship is possible after five years of legal residence.
The cost of living is slightly lower than in Spainespecially in housing and food. The public health is good, albeit with some waiting times. And something that cannot be overlooked, the Portuguese is easier for us to learn because of its slight resemblance to the Spanishand the people are usually very welcoming.
Italy
When we think of which is the best country in Europe to live in, Italy appears as an option for those looking for a warm and historic environment. In addition, many Venezuelans we have roots Italianswhich facilitates the obtaining citizenship by descent.
In terms of residence, Italy also allows for regularisation on the basis of roots and has different permits for workers and students. The northern cities (Milan, Turin, Bologna) offer more job opportunities, although the cost of living is also considerably higher (1000-1500 € rent).
Italy has a efficient public health and a latin community very strong, which helps to adapt. It does, learn Italian is key to integrating well into working and social life.
Germany
Germany is an economic giant, and it is only natural that we take this into account. Employment opportunities in sectors such as technology, engineering, logistics and healthcare are abundant. The big challenge is the languagewithout a good level of GermanOnce learned, however, it is a great advantage.
In terms of residenceGermany offers visas for skilled workers and students. Your quality of life is excellent: transport, security, environment, infrastructure. Of course, the cost of living can be high in large cities such as Berlin or Munich (900-1200 € rent).
The public health is of a very high standard, although it requires insurance, which is also a bit expensive. The Venezuelan community is not as numerous as in SpainBut more and more people like us are daring to venture into this wonderful country.
France
France also appears in the list of options when we search for which is the best country in Europe to live in. Paris is the economic and cultural centre, but cities such as Lyon, Toulouse or Marseille also offer quality of life.
The French is essential for work, although opportunities exist in hospitality, technology and international trade. France makes it easy to residence for students, skilled workers and asylum seekers.
The cost of living at Paris is very high, but as in all countries, there are other regions that are more accessible. The public health is one of the best in Europeand the system of social aidss is no slouch.
Ireland
Ireland has been gaining ground. With a growing economy, it offers opportunities in technology, finance and customer service.
Although the weather can be a challenge, the ease of obtaining work visas, and the quality of life compensate. Dublin is expensive, but other cities such as Cork o Galway are more accessible.
The English greatly facilitates the employment integrationand although the Venezuelan community is small, it is very active.
Other countries to consider
In addition to the best-known options, there are other countries that we should also consider when we ask ourselves which is the best country in Europe to live in being Venezuelan. Each has its particularities, advantages and challenges, and can be interesting alternatives depending on our circumstances.
- Belgiumwith a stable economy and a strong labour market in Brussels, particularly in international organisations and service sectors, Belgium offers opportunities for those seeking skilled employment. While the cost of living can be high in the capital, other cities are more affordable.
- The Netherlandsrecognised for its high quality of life, efficient services and respect for social rights, it is a very attractive country. However, it should be borne in mind that the cost of living is highespecially in Amsterdam and other large cities.
- Sweden and NorwayThe countries are among the most socially well off in the world, excelling in safety, environment and public services. However, the high cost of living and language barriers (Swedish or Norwegian) can make adaptation more complex.
- Polandwith a emerging economy and a low cost of living, Poland presents itself as an option for those looking to get started with limited resources. Warsaw and Krakow concentrate most of the job opportunities. However, Polish language is a major challenge and the Venezuelan community there is still small.
So what is the best option?
The answer depends on each one of us, on our needs, and what is fundamental for us as Venezuelans.
If we prioritise language and cultural proximity, Spain y Portugal are the winning options. If we look for economic stability and we don't mind facing the language challenge, Germany e Ireland offer great opportunities. If we have Italian roots, Italy can be the ideal gateway. And if we want quality of life in vibrant cities, France is a strong option.
The best country to live in is the one that offers us real opportunitiesbut also human qualityThat warmth that we have lost and that we miss so much. We are looking for something more than stability, we are looking to regain tranquillity, the possibility of dreaming big without fear of tomorrow.
At Curiara, We know how difficult it is to make this decision and start afresh in another country. That's why we want to accompany you every step of the way.
Not only do we help you better understand the processes of setting up in Europe, but we also offer you the peace of mind that comes with being able to send money to your loved ones in Venezuela in the form of fast, safe and uncomplicatedBecause even if we change country, our heart is still there, with our people.
Curiara, uniting families.
