How to Prepare for Your First Job in Europe as a Filipino

1. Get Your Documents in Order First

Before anything else, make sure you have these four documents ready:

• ✓Valid passport (at least 12 months remaining validity)
• ✓NBI Certificate of Good Conduct (issued within 6 months)
• ✓Health certificate — a blood exam showing no HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C, in English, issued within 3 months
• ✓Updated CV in English

The health certificate is the one most people forget or underestimate. Go to any accredited clinic and ask for a "pre-employment blood test for overseas work." It typically costs ₱500–₱1,500 and results are ready in 1–2 days. For a full checklist, read our guide on 5 documents every Filipino needs to work in Europe.

2. Sort Out Your Finances

You'll need some savings to cover the transition period. Even if your employer provides housing and meals, you'll want money for:

• ✓Personal expenses in your first weeks (transport, toiletries, phone SIM)
• ✓Any document fees (NBI, health cert, passport renewal if needed)
• ✓Emergency fund — aim for at least ₱20,000–₱30,000 set aside

Wondering how much you can earn? Check our 2026 salary guide for Filipinos in Europe.

3. Prepare Your English Communication Skills

Good news: you don't need to learn Greek or German. English is the working language for all CareerGate placements. But it's worth brushing up on professional English — especially for job interviews. Practice introducing yourself, describing your experience, and answering common interview questions.

4. Research Your Destination

Whether you're heading to Greece or Germany, spend time learning about:

• ✓The local culture and customs (Greeks are warm and family-oriented; Germans value punctuality and directness)
• ✓Basic phrases in the local language — even a few words go a long way
• ✓The weather and what clothes to pack
• ✓The cost of living so you can budget your salary wisely

Heading to Greece? Read our in-depth guide on life in Greece as a Filipino worker.

5. Prepare Mentally and Emotionally

This is the part nobody talks about enough. Moving abroad is exciting — but it's also hard. You'll miss your family. There will be days when everything feels unfamiliar and overwhelming. That's normal.

Build a support system before you leave: join Filipino communities in your destination city on Facebook, save CareerGate's contact ([email protected]) on your phone, and make a plan for staying in touch with family back home.

6. Know Your Rights as a Worker in Europe

EU labour law protects all workers — including Filipinos on work visas. You are entitled to:

• ✓Minimum wage (varies by country)
• ✓At least 20 paid vacation days per year
• ✓Mandatory health insurance (provided by your employer)
• ✓Safe working conditions
• ✓Protection from discrimination and harassment

If you ever face a workplace issue, CareerGate's legal support team is here to help. Don't suffer in silence. Want to know more about us? Read Is CareerGate legitimate?