Extraordinary scenic beauty, amazing climate, stunning architecture, immense job opportunities, great healthcare, top-notch infrastructure, and remarkable education system entice people from all over the world to seek immigration to Europe.
Many also choose to study abroador pursue other professional opportunities on the continent. With everything so exceptional, Europe is undoubtedly the most desired destination in the world to settle in.
A massive number of Indians migrate to Europe every year, and the numbers have increased threefold in the past three decades. Europe has a stable economy and almost negligible poverty rate and is not as densely populated as India, making it a great place to settle for Indian people. However, immigration to Europe is not that easy.
If you, too, are wondering how to settle in Europe, here’s our detailed guide on “how to settle in Europe from India?”
Key reasons such as a thriving economy, great job market, and incredible benefits are why there is a massive number of migrations in Europe every year from all across the world.
Massive immigration also takes place to Europe from India since many wish to to settle in the continent for the quality of life it offers. Also, the countries in Europe have made significant efforts to assimilate foreigners as well.
This is one of the reasons why more and more Indians want to settle there.
Requirements to Move to Europe from India
If you are thinking about how to settle in Europe from India, here are the things you must keep in mind while planning. In addition to travel visas, people seeking immigration to Europe must submit other documents as well:
1. Language knowledge with proof:
You must know the language of the country where you are seeking immigration. You must also know how to speak English since it is an international language. Multiple tests can help you prove your language proficiency, be it English or any other language.
2. Valid Passport:
Your passport should not be older than ten years and must be valid for at least four more months. Without that, you cannot immigrate to Europe from India.
3. Proof of accommodation:
If you are looking forward to temporarily staying in Europe, you must give proof of your accommodation. Having a sponsor can make your application easier to process and pass. If not, you must provide your living plans.
4. Employment contract:
If you are immigrating for employment purposes, you must have prior experience of at least one year and proof of employment from the organization that contacted and hired you.
Why Should You Settle in Europe
Europe has a rich culture and an intriguing history. Once in Europe, you have so much to explore, and you are pretty much sure to travel the whole continent. It has so much to offer in food, lifestyle, money, social life, and jobs for everyone. Since it covers a large area, it is not densely populated like India.
Europe has a sophisticated standard of living, a great atmosphere, and natural surroundings. Europe is one of the most romantic and promising places on earth where people from all across the world look forward to settling.
It is an ideal place for not just a vacation but for spending the rest of your life. And if you are a student and want to study abroad, you should consider Europe all the more. Although the cost of studying in Europe is high, the quality of life and education is par excellence.
When you are seeking immigration in Europe, it is vital to understand what category you fall under. The immigrant divisions based on your professional background are as follows:
1. Highly qualified workers
You can immigrate to Europe from India under this clause if you prove you have high experience in your field of work. You must have work experience of a minimum of 5 years or are seeking higher educational qualifications.
2. Intra-corporate transferees (ICT)
People from third-world countries can immigrate to Europe from India if they have a working contract with any European company. In such a case, you will immigrate to Europe in the same position. However, you can immigrate under the condition that your current employer has a branch in the country hosting you.
3. Researchers
People holding a valuable degree and willing to conduct research in any European continent are more than welcome and can apply for immigration under this category. However, you should either be associated with your organization or be financially strong to support your research.
4. Seasonal workers
People with temporary work contracts in any European continent can immigrate to Europe. It is essential to show proof of your accommodation arrangements and of your employment status.
5. Students
Any student enrolled at a European university in a full-time curriculum can move to Europe. To study in Europe, students must have valid documents such as health insurance, financial aid, and proof of payment of the application fee.
To settle in Europe with your family, you must first be a temporary citizen in Europe yourself. Only after you have lived here for five years can you bring your family permanently.
The cost of living in Europe is not very expensive in all countries, but there are some requirements that you have to meet. You have to be financially independent to support your living expenses once in Europe.
An EU card helps immediate relocation of your family and allows them to seek jobs in Europe as well. With that, your family does not have to go through any language proficiency tests.
To permanently settle with your family and attain citizenship of a European continent, you would have to:
1) Show your passport with a long-term stay in Europe.
2) Present the birth certificate of you and your family members.
3) Provide proof of income.
4) In case of marriage, you have to show your marriage certificate.
5) Show proof of residence and your employment contract.
Best European Cities for Better Quality Of Life
Below are the best cities in Europe that serve you with better quality of life in terms of location, lifestyle, and opportunities.
1. London, UK
The city is aimed at affluent and skillful entrepreneurs. Having an excellent environment, London is the center for higher education worldwide. It is well-known for its excellent environment and global financial hub.
2. Barcelona, Spain
The city with cultural and architectural heritage offers a comfortable lifestyle and aims majorly to attract entrepreneurs. It provides great business and investment opportunities along with healthcare facilities.
3. Zurich, Switzerland
With excellent ecological conditions, the city is a financial and banking center. Affluent people reside here with high living standards.
4. Brussels, Belgium
The city is the political center of Europe. Having the best infrastructure it provides great security and comfort.
5. Sliema, Malta
This city, being a commercial center, thrives on tourism and international business. Having a mild climate, it syncs well with the quintessential European lifestyle.
Which Are Best Yet Most Affordable Places to Live in Europe
1. Minsk, Belarus
This place is affordable and hospitable. It has an indie culture dotted with beautiful quaint cafes. Music and dance are a big part of the culture in Minsk. It is flooded with pretty places and reflects old architecture downtown. The national library of Minsk is heaven for book lovers.
2. Tbilisi, Georgia
Since it is centralized, it is a multicultural city with cultural influences from both Asia and Europe. It has people of over 100 ethnicities, making it culturally rich and appealing. Dotted with stunning architecture, Tbilisi is a delight for travelers.
It is also known for its night-time adventures and scenic beauty, making it a calming place for visitors and permanent residents.
3. Kyiv, Ukraine
The city is home to some of the biggest high-tech industries and educational institutions. It has a rich history peppered with some of the biggest churches throughout the city.
The city has ample parks, greenery, and a warm, pleasant atmosphere. The welcoming and friendly people of the city make Kyiv one of the most preferred destinations for immigrants and tourists.
If you were thinking about how to settle in Europe from India, here are a few tips and resources that will always help.
InterNations has an annual Expat Insider survey where you will find insights from thousands of expats in 181 countries/regions representing 177 nationalities. You will find more information on quality of life, ease of settling in the country, personal finance, language, housing, working abroad, etc.
Those who are retired/about to retire can also check out Live and Invest Overseas which ranks leading destinations for retirement. The 2024 index saw Valencia (Spain) coming on top, followed by Braga in Portugal (both in Europe).
Always look at the immigration requirements carefully. If you’re moving to an EU country to study, work, or join a family member, you will have specific rights as per immigration regulations. You may apply for residence permits directly from the EU country authorities, with the common visa and immigration rules applying for those moving for longer periods than 90 days. These are applicable to highly qualified workers, intra-corporate transferees, seasonal workers, researchers, trainees, volunteers, and students.
Make full use of the Schengen - ID-free travel zone provisions. You can travel between the 29 Schengen countries without border checks. The common visa policy helps non-EU visitors with regard to short/transit stays in this zone. Short-stay visas usually entitle visitors to travel through all these countries for up to 90 days in any period of 180 days.
To understand living costs, websites like Numbeo can give you helpful insights on almost every European city, while your moving budget should cover the costs of shifting your belongings, travel insurance, temporary accommodation costs until you find permanent housing, daily living costs, and more.
Check out Wise for international finance management across borders while also striving to learn the local language of whichever region you settle in.
Connect with expat communities to start feeling more at home in your new country/city. Use Meetup and other platforms to interact with like-minded expatriates.
Conclusion
For those thinking about how to settle in Europe, this guide will take care of most aspects involved in the process. From handy settling tips to requirements and immigration, you will find helpful advice that will help you fulfill your dreams of staying in one of the world’s most vibrant continents.
On that note, here’s to a successful and happy stint ahead!
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Am I Eligible for a Permanent Residency through an EU Card?
An EU card is usually issued for four years, depending on your job. An EU card improves your chances of citizenship in a European country and helps your family to move to Europe and continue their lives as they would in their home country.
Do I need to be highly Proficient in the language of the country I am immigrating to?
You need to be proficient in English and the country’s native language where you are immigrating. For example, if you want to live in France, you must have a good grasp of French and English.
Is Europe the best continent for migrants?
It depends on what you want. For any country to be the best for you, it has to offer you the things you want and need. If you look forward to a safe, clean, and promising country, Europe is the green light for you.
However, if you look forward to quick citizenship, Europe might take longer. Getting permanent citizenship is a lengthy process as you need to have impressive working experience and stay there for some period, which can be longer than in other countries.
Can I start studying at European Universities from India and complete my course on campus?
upGrad Abroad can help you start a course in a European University online, and once you meet the university’s requirements, you can finish that course on their campus.
Which country in Europe is easy to settle in?
The United Kingdom is the easiest country to settle in Europe. Although it is easier than in other European countries, obtaining a permanent residency in the UK is a lengthy process. You must live for a set number of years to be able to apply for permanent residency.
Also, you must meet certain conditions and eligibility criteria to apply for permanent residency in the UK.
Which is the best country in Europe to live and work in?
Germany is the best among the countries in Europe to live and work.
Germany, with a wealth of great cities, top-notch infrastructures, ample job opportunities, and a comprehensive welfare system, draws millions of immigrants looking to live and seeking job opportunities every year.
Which is the best European country for Indian students to study?
Germany is the best European country for Indian students to study. The country has a comprehensive welfare system and immigrant-friendly policies.
Moreover, the quality lifestyle and abundant job opportunities Germany offers make it a great study and work destination for Indians.
Which European country gives permanent residence quickly?
The United Kingdom, Belgium, and Malta are the countries that give permanent residency easily to non-EU citizens compared to the other European countries. However, the process of getting PR is lengthy.
Also, you must fulfill specific criteria and live for a set of years to be able to apply for permanent residency.
Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technology, payroll, and education. She has worked as a creator for a few leading companies and has also helped brands grow through her creative writing.
Anupriya Mukherjee is a passion-driven professional working as a Content Marketer and earlier worked as a Digital Marketeer. With around 6 years of work experience, she has experience creating high-quality, engaging content for websites, blogs, news articles, video scripts, brochures, and ebooks.
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