Going abroad for work is an opportunity to earn higher wages, but it also involves specific start-up expenses. Many workers focus on the hourly rate and forget that a budget for working abroad should include not only a ticket and a suitcase, but the entire first month of living in a new country. Below you will find real figures from 2026 and practical tips on how to avoid a financial trap at the beginning of your trip.
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Please note that preparing a detailed relocation budget mainly concerns people who organize their move abroad independently. Those employed through a recruitment agency or directly by a foreign employer often have most initial costs covered, for example in the form of an advance payment, so they do not have to worry about these expenses.
Budget for Working Abroad – Where to Start?
Before you sign a contract, calculate all the expenses you will incur before receiving your first salary. In many countries, wages are paid after 4 weeks, so you must have sufficient funds to get started.
The minimum relocation budget in 2026 for one person moving to Germany or the Netherlands is usually €800–€1200. In Scandinavian countries, it is advisable to have even 8,000–12,000 SEK, as living costs are higher.
First Month Abroad – What Costs Should Be Included?
The costs of the first month abroad include:
- a housing deposit (usually equivalent to 1 month’s rent). If you are going abroad through a recruitment agency, accommodation is often already guaranteed in your contract.
- the first month’s rent paid in advance,
- food,
- transport,
- basic equipment (bed linen, cleaning products),
- administrative formalities.
Housing Costs Abroad in 2026
If you decide to rent independently, housing costs abroad will take up the largest part of your budget.
Example rates in 2026:
- Germany – room: €500–€800, studio apartment: €900–€1,400,
- Netherlands – room: €600–€900, apartment: €1,200–€1,800,
- Belgium – room: €450–€750,
- Denmark – room: €700–€1,000.
If the employer provides accommodation, the cost may be lower (e.g. €300–€500 per month), but always check whether it is deducted from your salary.
Living Costs Abroad and Food Expenses
Average monthly living costs abroad for one manual worker are:
- Germany: €800–€1,200 (excluding rent),
- Netherlands: €900–€1,300,
- Belgium: €800–€1,100.
Food expenses alone usually amount to €250–€400 per month if you cook for yourself. Eating out significantly increases expenses.
Transport and Commuting to Work Abroad
A monthly public transport ticket in 2026 costs:
- Germany: €49–€70,
- Netherlands: €80–€120,
- Belgium: €60–€90.
If you commute by car, add fuel costs (approx. €1.70–€2.00 per liter) and possible parking fees. Transport and commuting to work abroad can range from €70 to even €250 per month.
Health Insurance Abroad
In Germany, mandatory health insurance abroad costs around €200–€250 per month (if not paid directly from your salary). In the Netherlands, the health insurance contribution is about €130–€160 per month.
Always check whether health insurance is included in your employment contract.
Visas and Formalities Abroad
EU citizens do not need visas in EU countries, but when working in Norway or Iceland, additional administrative fees of around €50–€150 may apply. There may also be costs for document translations or obtaining a tax identification number.
Bank Account Abroad and SIM Card Abroad
Opening a bank account abroad in 2026 is often free of charge, but some banks charge a monthly fee of €5–€15.
A SIM card abroad with an internet package costs approximately €10–€30 per month. It is worth having a local number, especially if your employer requires phone contact.
IT Costs and Remote Work Tools
If you are going abroad for manual work, you usually do not need to invest in equipment. However, if you plan additional online work, it is worth considering IT costs and remote work tools, such as a laptop (€500–€1,000) or an internet subscription (€30–€50 per month).
Adaptation Costs and Emergency Relocation Buffer
At the beginning, adaptation costs always arise – purchasing work clothing, equipping the apartment, administrative fees. Realistically, you should allocate €200–€500 for these expenses.
Additionally, an emergency relocation buffer is necessary – at least the equivalent of one month’s living expenses, i.e. approximately €1,000–€1,500. This serves as protection in case of delayed salary payment or a job change.
How to Calculate a Relocation Budget Step by Step?
Check the actual housing and deposit costs.
Add monthly living and transport expenses.
Include insurance and administrative formalities.
Add a safety buffer.
Going abroad for work is an investment in higher earnings, but only a well-calculated budget will help you avoid financial stress. Before you leave, check all first-month costs abroad and prepare a cash reserve.
On our platform europa.jobs, you will find up-to-date job offers for manual workers across Europe – many of them offer accommodation and support with formalities, which significantly reduces start-up costs.
A well-planned departure means a calmer start and a greater chance of saving money quickly.
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