Growing Demand for OFWs in Europe: Central & Eastern Europe Opens Up
Filipino skilled workers are seeing a surge in opportunities across Central and Eastern Europe as these countries are demanding more workers beyond the traditional Middle Eastern destinations.
Which Countries Are Opening Up?
The countries actively recruiting Filipino workers include Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Romania, Finland, Slovenia, Croatia, and Hungary.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac highlighted the trend, attributing the surge to economic shifts in the region.
"We know for sure that in Central and Eastern Europe, having joined the European Union, they see themselves as competitive enough to develop and bring forth development and prosperity."
Germany Leads, But Others Are Catching Up Fast
Data from the Department of Migrant Workers shows that Germany currently leads in the number of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) deployed, with over 12,000 deployed this year, followed by Hungary, Czech Republic, and Croatia.
Read more about Germany's specific recruitment plans in our article: Germany to Recruit Skilled Filipino Workers.
🇨🇿 Czech Republic
Doubled its annual quota for Filipino workers — from 5,500 to 10,300, primarily for non-healthcare positions.
🇭🇷 Croatia
Preparing to open jobs for caregivers and hotel workers.
🇦🇹 Austria
Anticipates needing up to 200,000 workers in the coming years.
What Jobs Are Available?
Most jobs available to Filipinos in the region are in industries such as:
- ✓Healthcare & caregiving
- ✓Construction
- ✓Information technology
- ✓Tourism & hospitality
- ✓Automotive repair & manufacturing
Browse all available positions on our job opportunities page, or explore specific sectors like healthcare, hospitality, or construction.
A Word of Caution
Although opportunities are expanding, Secretary Cacdac cautioned that many of these programs are still in the early stages.
"It's still in the early stages [of job availability]. Don't fall for job offers online because there is a proper way of doing things."
This is exactly why platforms like CareerGate exist — to connect Filipino job seekers with vetted, legitimate European employers through a transparent, government-compliant process. Learn more about how CareerGate ensures legitimacy.
Ready to explore European opportunities?
Register on CareerGate and get matched with vetted employers in Greece, Germany, and beyond. Start your application →
Related Articles
Germany Soon to Recruit Skilled Filipino Workers: Electricians, Engineers & More
Beyond Labour: A Bold Rethink of Germany-Philippines Migration
How to Prepare for Your First Job in Europe as a Filipino
Explore more resources for Filipino workers heading to Europe: