If you’re a foreigner looking for job opportunities in Eastern Europe, both Romania and Poland are attractive options. Each country offers different benefits in terms of wages, job availability, and living conditions. But which one is the better choice for you? Let’s compare the two.
Job market: Romania vs. Poland
Jobs in Romania for foreigners
Romania has a growing economy, with demand for workers in industries such as:
- IT & Software Development – Romania is known for its strong IT sector, with many international companies outsourcing here.
- Manufacturing & Construction – Many factories and construction sites need skilled and unskilled workers. Also welder jobs in Europe, especially tig welder jobs are avalaible in this category.
- Customer Service & BPO – Many multinational companies set up call centers in Romania.
- Agriculture – Seasonal work is common in farming and food production.
Pros of working in Romania:
✅ Lower cost of living compared to Western Europe.
✅ Many jobs available for foreigners, even without a degree.
✅ English-speaking jobs in IT, BPO, and tourism.
Cons:
❌ Salaries are lower compared to Poland.
❌ Bureaucracy can be challenging for work permits.
❌ Fewer international job opportunities than Poland.
Jobs in Poland for foreigners
Poland has a larger and more developed economy, offering jobs in:
- manufacturing & logistics – Poland is a European hub for production and supply chain jobs.
- IT & Engineering – Like Romania, Poland has a strong tech industry.
- construction – Many foreign workers, especially from Ukraine and Asia, work in construction.
- hospitality & services – Hotels and restaurants in big cities hire many foreigners.
Pros of working in Poland:
✅ Higher wages than Romania.
✅ More job opportunities, especially in logistics and factories.
✅ Easier work permits for non-EU citizens.
Cons:
❌ Higher cost of living, especially in cities like Warsaw and Kraków.
❌ More competition for skilled jobs.
❌ Polish language skills are often required for many roles.
Which country to choose?
| Factor | Romania 🇷🇴 | Poland 🇵🇱 |
|---|---|---|
| wages | lower | higher |
| living costs | cheaper | more expensive |
| job availability | moderate | high |
| work permit process | difficult | easier |
| english-speaking jobs | available in IT, BPO | more opportunities in big cities |
| career growth | slower | faster |
Final verdict
- Choose Romania if you prefer a lower cost of living, work in IT, agriculture, or customer service, and don’t mind lower salaries.
- Choose Poland if you want higher wages, more job options, and are willing to live in a busier, more expensive country.
Both countries offer great opportunities for foreign workers, but your choice depends on your industry, salary expectations, and lifestyle preferences. Another attractive job market in Central Europe is also Slovakia.
Check also article: schengen job seeker visa for Poland in India.