How to Find Remote Jobs With European Companies
Working remotely for a European company while living in Australia can open up career opportunities across an entirely different employment market.
Instead of limiting yourself to Australian businesses, you could potentially work for a software company in Germany, a technology startup in the Netherlands, a financial technology business in Sweden or an international organisation headquartered in France.
Europe is home to thousands of technology companies, digital businesses and international employers. Some operate with distributed teams and recruit employees or contractors across multiple countries.
However, finding a European remote job that actually accepts Australians can be challenging.
Many positions advertised as remote in Europe are only available to people living within the European Union, European Economic Area or specific European countries.
A company advertising a fully remote position in Berlin may still require you to live in Germany.
The best way to find remote jobs with European companies from Australia is to target employers with international hiring arrangements, search for Australia or APAC eligibility, and verify location restrictions before applying.
You should also consider time zones, salary currencies, language requirements and the legal arrangements involved in working for an overseas employer.
In this guide, we'll explain where to find European companies hiring remotely, which countries and industries are worth exploring, how international employment works and what Australians need to know before accepting an offer.
Can Australians Work Remotely for European Companies?
Yes. Australians can work remotely for European companies while continuing to live in Australia, provided the employer supports Australian-based workers and the arrangement complies with applicable laws.
For example, an Australian software engineer could work for a European technology business through an Australian employing entity.
A digital marketing specialist might provide services to a Dutch company as an independent contractor.
An Australian customer success manager could support Asia-Pacific customers for a German software business.
The important distinction is that the employer must be willing and able to engage someone based in Australia.
Does Remote in Europe Mean Worldwide?
No.
European remote job advertisements often include geographical restrictions.
| Job location | What it generally means |
|---|---|
| Remote — Germany | Usually requires residence in Germany |
| Remote — EU | Generally restricted to eligible European Union countries |
| Remote — EEA | Generally restricted to eligible European Economic Area countries |
| Remote — Europe | Usually requires residence in Europe |
| Remote — EMEA | Europe, Middle East and Africa; Australia generally excluded |
| Remote — APAC | May include Australia |
| Remote — Australia | Specifically targets Australian-based applicants |
| Remote — Worldwide | May accept Australians, subject to employer restrictions |
| Remote — Global | International eligibility must be confirmed |
Even positions labelled worldwide can have exclusions.
Always check the employer's official job description.
Why Look for Remote Jobs With European Companies?
There are several reasons Australians might consider European employers.
Access to More Companies
Expanding your search internationally increases the number of businesses you can research.
This can be useful if your profession is specialised or you're interested in industries with strong European markets.
Opportunities With International Technology Businesses
Europe has established software, financial technology, cybersecurity, e-commerce and digital services industries.
Some employers recruit across multiple countries.
Experience Working With Global Teams
Working for a European business can provide experience with international customers, colleagues and commercial practices.
Different Career Opportunities
Certain European employers may offer positions, products or industry experience that are less common in Australia.
Potentially Competitive Compensation
Some international employers offer attractive compensation for specialised professionals.
However, European remote jobs don't automatically pay more than equivalent Australian positions.
Which European Countries Are Worth Exploring?
Different countries have different industries, languages and working arrangements.
Rather than assuming one country is best, focus on where your professional experience is relevant.
Germany
Germany has a substantial technology, engineering, industrial software and manufacturing sector.
Relevant employers may include enterprise software businesses, cybersecurity companies and industrial technology providers.
English-speaking opportunities exist, but some positions require German.
Netherlands
The Netherlands has an internationally connected business environment, with companies operating in technology, logistics, financial services and e-commerce.
Some businesses use English as their working language.
Sweden
Sweden has internationally recognised technology, software, gaming and digital services companies.
Some employers operate distributed teams, although many remote positions remain restricted to European locations.
France
France has businesses across software, financial technology, artificial intelligence, digital marketing and other industries.
Some international positions are conducted in English, while others require French.
Ireland
Ireland hosts European operations for numerous international technology and professional services companies.
However, a remote position based in Ireland may still require Irish residency.
Spain and Portugal
Both countries have technology businesses, startups and internationally distributed teams.
They also attract companies interested in remote working arrangements.
However, local residency requirements can still apply.
Switzerland
Switzerland has businesses across finance, pharmaceuticals, software and specialised technology.
Some positions offer competitive compensation, but many are restricted to Swiss residents or other approved locations.
European Companies Worth Researching
Several European-founded or European-headquartered businesses are useful starting points for international remote job research.
These aren't guaranteed to have current vacancies open to Australians.
Instead, they're examples of employers whose careers pages and hiring policies are worth investigating.
1. Spotify — Sweden
Spotify is a Swedish-founded audio streaming and technology company.
Its Work From Anywhere approach has supported flexible working arrangements for eligible employees.
However, the policy doesn't mean employees can automatically work from any country.
Check the specific position's approved location.
2. SAP — Germany
SAP is a German enterprise software company with international operations, including Australia.
Relevant positions may include software engineering, consulting, customer success, sales and technical support.
Not every role is fully remote.
3. Adyen — Netherlands
Adyen is a Dutch financial technology company providing payments infrastructure.
Its international operations make it worth researching for technology, finance, operations and commercial positions.
Working arrangements vary by role.
4. Booking.com — Netherlands
Booking.com is a Netherlands-headquartered travel technology business.
It recruits across technology, commercial operations, data and other functions.
However, international operations don't guarantee fully remote Australian positions.
5. Revolut — UK-founded European operations
Revolut is a UK-founded financial technology company with operations across Europe and other markets.
Potentially relevant careers include engineering, product, risk, operations and customer-related positions.
6. Wise — UK-founded international business
Wise is an international financial technology company founded in London.
It operates across multiple countries, including Australia.
Working arrangements and geographical eligibility vary.
7. Typeform — Spain
Typeform is a Spanish-founded software company known for online forms and surveys.
It is worth researching for software, product, marketing and customer-related positions.
Check the approved hiring countries.
8. Remote — International employment technology
Remote provides global employment and payroll services and operates with a distributed workforce.
Its careers page explains that many positions are globally remote, but some have location or time-zone restrictions.
Candidates should review the eligibility information in each advertisement.
9. Matomo — International remote-first team
Matomo provides web analytics software and operates with a globally distributed team.
Its careers page describes team members across Europe, New Zealand, Asia and North America.
This makes it an interesting employer to research for geographically distributed opportunities.
However, individual positions can still be restricted to particular regions.
10. Canonical — UK-based technology company
Canonical is the company behind Ubuntu.
It has an established distributed workforce and advertises home-based positions across several professional fields.
Some roles have worldwide eligibility, while others are restricted to particular regions.
These employers should be treated as research leads rather than a verified list of Australian-eligible vacancies.
Best Remote Careers With European Companies
Some professions are particularly suitable for working with European employers from Australia.
| Career | Potential opportunities |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer | Application and software development |
| Cloud Engineer | Cloud infrastructure and automation |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | Security engineering and compliance |
| Data Analyst | Business intelligence and reporting |
| Product Manager | Digital product development |
| UX Designer | Digital products and user experiences |
| Digital Marketing Specialist | International marketing campaigns |
| SEO Specialist | Search marketing and content strategy |
| Customer Success Manager | International customer relationships |
| Account Executive | Business-to-business sales |
| Technical Account Manager | Technical customer support and account management |
| Business Analyst | Business systems and process improvement |
| Project Manager | International project coordination |
| Recruiter | Global recruitment and talent acquisition |
| Finance Specialist | International financial operations |
Your existing professional experience should guide which positions you pursue.
For example, someone with a background in business-to-business sales may have stronger prospects applying for international account management positions than retraining immediately for a technical career.
How to Find European Remote Jobs Open to Australians
The most effective approach is to search for employers rather than simply searching for jobs located in Europe.
Step 1: Identify International European Employers
Start with European businesses that already operate outside their home countries.
Companies with Australian operations or Asia-Pacific customers may be more familiar with hiring people in Australia.
Step 2: Check Their Careers Pages
Look for positions labelled Australia, ANZ, APAC or worldwide.
Step 3: Search for Remote-First Companies
Some European-founded businesses operate with distributed teams.
However, remote-first doesn't necessarily mean worldwide hiring.
Step 4: Search for APAC Responsibilities
A European software company might recruit an Australian customer success manager to support customers in Asia-Pacific.
These positions may be particularly suitable because the working hours can align with Australia.
Step 5: Consider International Contracting
Some European businesses engage Australian professionals as independent contractors.
This can be relevant for software development, marketing, consulting and design.
Step 6: Verify the Employment Arrangement
Before applying, confirm whether the company supports Australian employment or genuine independent contracting.
Best Websites for European Remote Jobs
Several websites can help you discover European employers and international vacancies.
Deskless
Deskless features remote opportunities sourced directly from Australian and international company websites.
It can help Australians explore international employers without relying exclusively on traditional recruitment platforms.
LinkedIn Jobs can help you research European-headquartered companies recruiting in Australia.
Use Australia as your location and remote as the working arrangement.
We Work Remotely
We Work Remotely features remote positions across several professions.
Check geographical restrictions carefully.
Remote OK
Remote OK can be useful for technology and startup opportunities.
Some positions may be open worldwide, while others are restricted.
Himalayas
Himalayas offers location and time-zone filters that can help Australians identify eligible international vacancies.
Working Nomads
Working Nomads features remote positions across different professional categories.
European-Specific Job Boards
Platforms such as Euro Remote Jobs and WorkRemotely.eu focus on European remote employment.
These can be useful for discovering companies, but their listings primarily target people living in Europe.
For Australians, they're often better used for employer research than direct applications unless the role explicitly accepts applicants outside Europe.
Useful Search Terms for European Remote Jobs
Try combining your profession with location eligibility.
Examples include:
- European companies hiring remotely in Australia
- Remote jobs European companies Australia
- Work remotely for European company from Australia
- European startups hiring worldwide
- Remote Europe jobs worldwide
- Remote jobs European companies APAC
- German companies hiring remotely Australia
- Dutch companies hiring international remote workers
- European software companies hiring Australia
- Remote customer success European company Australia
- European remote software engineer worldwide
- European startups hiring Australian contractors
- Global remote jobs European companies
- Remote-first companies Europe hiring worldwide
- European companies with Australian remote employees
Avoid relying exclusively on searches such as "remote jobs Europe".
These frequently return positions restricted to European residents.
Do You Need an EU Work Visa to Work Remotely From Australia?
Generally, no.
If you're physically living and performing all your work in Australia, you don't ordinarily need an EU work visa simply because your employer is based in a European country.
However, you must have the appropriate right to work in Australia.
If you travel to Europe to perform work, different immigration requirements may apply.
What About Business Trips?
Some international employers organise meetings, training sessions or company gatherings in Europe.
Depending on the destination and activities, you may need specific permission to enter or work.
European countries have different immigration rules, and the Schengen Area's visitor arrangements don't automatically authorise all employment activities.
Check the official requirements for the country you're visiting.
How European Companies Can Hire Australians
There are several possible arrangements.
Australian Subsidiary
A European business may have an Australian employing entity.
You could be employed locally while working with colleagues overseas.
Employer of Record
Some companies use an employer of record to employ Australian-based staff without establishing their own Australian subsidiary.
The provider handles relevant local employment administration.
Independent Contracting
A European business may engage an Australian professional under a genuine independent contractor agreement.
You might invoice the company for agreed services.
However, contractor classification depends on the actual working relationship.
A company can't necessarily avoid employment obligations simply by describing someone as a contractor.
How Much Can You Earn Working for a European Company?
Compensation varies substantially between countries, professions and employers.
European salaries are often advertised in euros, although companies in countries such as Switzerland, Sweden and Denmark use their own currencies.
Some international employers use Australian-dollar salary bands for Australian employees.
Others negotiate compensation in a foreign currency.
Example Euro Salary Conversions
The following table uses a hypothetical exchange rate of €1 = A$1.70.
| Salary in euros | Illustrative AUD equivalent |
|---|---|
| €35,000 | A$59,500 |
| €45,000 | A$76,500 |
| €55,000 | A$93,500 |
| €65,000 | A$110,500 |
| €75,000 | A$127,500 |
| €90,000 | A$153,000 |
| €110,000 | A$187,000 |
| €130,000 | A$221,000 |
These are mathematical examples, not current exchange-rate quotations or typical salaries.
They don't include tax, superannuation, transfer fees or other expenses.
Do European Companies Pay Australian Employees European Salaries?
Not necessarily.
Some employers adjust compensation based on location.
For example, a company might advertise a salary range for employees living in Germany but use a different range for employees based in Australia.
Ask whether the advertised salary applies to Australian applicants.
Consider the Entire Compensation Package
A salary may not tell you everything about an offer.
Review paid leave, superannuation, bonuses, equipment, insurance and other benefits.
If you're contracting, compare your gross fees with the value of an employee package.
European vs Australian Time Zones
Time zones are an important consideration when working for European employers.
Europe spans several time zones, and some countries observe daylight saving time.
The difference between Europe and Australia changes throughout the year.
Example: European Office Hours in Melbourne
The following examples show approximate conversions of 9 am–5 pm local office hours.
| European city | Melbourne during European summer and Victorian winter | Melbourne during European winter and Victorian summer |
|---|---|---|
| London | 6 pm–2 am | 8 pm–4 am |
| Berlin | 5 pm–1 am | 7 pm–3 am |
| Amsterdam | 5 pm–1 am | 7 pm–3 am |
| Paris | 5 pm–1 am | 7 pm–3 am |
| Stockholm | 5 pm–1 am | 7 pm–3 am |
These are representative seasonal conversions. Differences vary during daylight saving transition periods.
Australian states also have different daylight saving arrangements.
Can You Work Australian Business Hours?
Yes, if the employer permits it.
Some European companies recruit Australians specifically to support Asia-Pacific customers.
Others operate asynchronously, allowing employees to work with limited overlap.
However, certain positions require regular meetings with European colleagues.
Questions to Ask About Working Hours
Before accepting an offer, clarify:
- Which time zone does the team operate in?
- Are working hours fixed?
- How much overlap is required?
- Are evening meetings common?
- Is overnight work expected?
- Does the role support APAC customers?
- Is international travel required?
A position may be fully remote but still have working hours that don't suit your lifestyle.
Do You Pay Australian Tax When Working for a European Company?
Generally, Australian tax residents must declare assessable worldwide income, subject to applicable exceptions and special rules.
This can include income received from European employers and clients.
Being paid in euros doesn't automatically make your earnings exempt from Australian income tax.
The Australian Taxation Office provides guidance on foreign income and tax residency.
What If the European Company Doesn't Withhold Australian Tax?
Some overseas employers don't operate Australian PAYG withholding.
Depending on the arrangement, you may need to manage your own Australian tax obligations.
Don't assume that the entire amount deposited into your bank account is available to spend.
What If You Pay Tax Overseas?
Australia has tax treaties with numerous countries, including several European nations.
Depending on the circumstances, treaty rules and foreign income tax offsets may be relevant.
However, the outcome depends on your residency, the country involved and where your work is physically performed.
Seek professional advice if both countries may tax the same income.
What If You're a Contractor?
You may need to consider an ABN, income tax, GST and business expenses.
Certain exported services can qualify as GST-free, but the rules depend on the nature of the services and other conditions.
Do European Companies Pay Australian Superannuation?
It depends on the employment arrangement and applicable Australian law.
If you're employed through an Australian subsidiary or employer of record, Australian superannuation obligations may apply.
Direct employment by an overseas company can require closer examination.
Some contractor arrangements can also create superannuation obligations.
Confirm the arrangements before accepting an offer.
What Employment Rights Apply?
Working for a European company doesn't automatically mean you'll receive every employment benefit available in the company's home country.
Equally, an overseas employer doesn't necessarily remove Australian employment obligations.
The applicable rules depend on the employing entity, contract and relevant laws.
Before signing, confirm:
- Who your legal employer is.
- Whether you're an employee or contractor.
- Salary and payment currency.
- Tax withholding arrangements.
- Superannuation.
- Paid leave.
- Public holidays.
- Working hours.
- Equipment and expenses.
- Notice and termination provisions.
- Applicable law and dispute resolution.
If the contract is complicated, consider obtaining professional advice.
How to Apply for European Remote Jobs From Australia
A targeted application can help you stand out.
Step 1: Confirm Australian Eligibility
Check whether the employer can engage someone based in Australia.
Step 2: Tailor Your CV
European employers commonly use the term CV.
Focus on relevant skills, experience and achievements.
Step 3: Highlight International Experience
If you've worked with overseas customers, suppliers or teams, explain how that experience relates to the position.
Step 4: Demonstrate Remote Working Skills
Employers may value independent working, written communication and digital collaboration.
Step 5: State Your Location
Make it clear that you're based in Australia.
Step 6: Prepare for Time-Zone Differences
Confirm interview dates and times carefully.
Step 7: Clarify Language Requirements
Some European employers use English internally, while others require local-language fluency.
Step 8: Review the Employment Arrangement
Before accepting an offer, clarify compensation, tax, superannuation and working hours.
Example Email: Asking a European Employer Whether They Hire Australians
If you find a suitable vacancy but aren't sure whether Australian applicants are eligible, you can send a short enquiry.
Subject: Remote Position – Australian Applicant
Hi [Hiring Manager],
I'm interested in the [Job Title] position and wanted to confirm whether the company considers applicants based in Australia.
I understand the role is advertised as remote, but wanted to check whether Australian-based employment or contracting is supported.
I'd appreciate any clarification before submitting my application.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
This can save time if the company only recruits within Europe.
How to Avoid European Remote Job Scams
International employment scams can involve people impersonating legitimate companies.
Be cautious if a recruiter requests upfront payments, asks you to transfer money or promises unusually high earnings for minimal work.
Check whether the vacancy appears on the company's official careers website.
Verify recruiter contact details independently.
Don't provide sensitive identification or banking information until you've confirmed the recruitment process is legitimate.
The Australian Government's Scamwatch provides guidance on employment scams.
Find International Remote Opportunities on Deskless
Deskless is a dedicated remote job board featuring opportunities sourced directly from Australian and international company websites.
Rather than relying exclusively on traditional recruitment platforms, Deskless helps job seekers discover remote vacancies published through employer career pages.
This can include opportunities across software development, sales, marketing, finance, customer success, operations and other professions when available.
New remote opportunities are added daily, and the platform operates through a paid membership model.
However, not every international vacancy accepts Australian applicants.
You'll need to review each job description to confirm geographical eligibility, salary, employment arrangements and time-zone requirements.
Explore Remote Jobs on Deskless
Common Mistakes Australians Make When Applying for European Remote Jobs
Assuming Remote Europe Means Worldwide
Many European remote positions require applicants to live within Europe.
Assuming EU and EMEA Include Australia
Australia isn't part of the EU, EEA or EMEA regions.
Ignoring Language Requirements
Some employers require fluency in German, French, Spanish or another European language.
Overlooking Time Zones
European office hours can involve evening or overnight work in Australia.
Assuming European Salaries Apply Globally
Some employers use location-based compensation.
Forgetting Currency Differences
Not every European country uses the euro.
Confusing Contracting With Employment
Contractor revenue isn't equivalent to an employee salary.
Ignoring Australian Tax
Australian tax residents generally need to declare relevant worldwide income.
Applying Without Checking Location Eligibility
Confirm that the employer can actually hire someone based in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Australians work remotely for European companies?
Yes. Some European companies employ or contract Australian residents remotely, provided they support an appropriate international arrangement.
Do I need an EU work visa to work from Australia?
Generally, no, if all your work is physically performed in Australia. Travel to Europe for work may involve separate immigration requirements.
Which European countries have remote job opportunities?
Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, France, Ireland, Spain, Portugal and Switzerland are among the countries worth researching.
Do European remote jobs require you to live in Europe?
Many do. Positions labelled EU, EEA, Europe or EMEA often have regional restrictions.
Can I work for a German company from Australia?
Yes, if the company supports Australian-based employment or contracting.
Do European companies hire English-speaking remote workers?
Some do, particularly international technology businesses. Other positions require local-language proficiency.
Do European companies pay in euros?
Some do. Others pay in local currencies or use Australian-dollar compensation for Australian employees.
Do I pay Australian tax on European remote income?
Australian tax residents generally need to declare relevant worldwide income, subject to applicable exceptions.
Can I work Australian business hours?
Yes, if the employer allows it. APAC-focused and asynchronous positions may be more suitable.
Where can I find European companies hiring Australians remotely?
Search European company career websites, LinkedIn, international remote job boards and platforms such as Deskless.
Final Thoughts
Working remotely for a European company from Australia can provide access to career opportunities beyond the local employment market.
European technology businesses, software companies and internationally distributed employers may offer positions across a wide range of professions.
However, the most important step is confirming that the company can actually hire someone living in Australia.
A job advertised as remote in Germany, France or the Netherlands doesn't automatically mean Australian applicants are eligible.
Focus on businesses with international operations, distributed teams or positions specifically supporting Australia and Asia-Pacific.
Before accepting an offer, review the employment arrangement, salary currency, tax obligations, superannuation and working hours.
Time zones deserve particular attention because standard European business hours often fall during Australian evenings or overnight.
If possible, prioritise positions that support Australian customers or allow asynchronous working.
Most importantly, expand your search beyond traditional employment websites.
Many international companies publish vacancies directly through their own career pages, and exploring these opportunities can help you discover employers you might otherwise overlook.
Ready to explore remote jobs with international employers?
Explore remote jobs on Deskless and discover opportunities sourced directly from Australian and international company websites.
Find remote positions across technology, sales, marketing, finance, customer success and more, and expand your career opportunities beyond the Australian job market.