Why do Indians perceive Europe as a land of better job opportunities? 

For representative purposes.
| Photo Credit: iStockphoto

The perception of Europe as a land of better job opportunities has been growing among Indians, particularly among the younger and more educated population. This belief is shaped by multiple factors, including higher wages, career growth prospects, and lifestyle advantages. A well-established Indian diaspora in Europe significantly influences migration aspirations. Many Indians have relatives or acquaintances who have settled in European countries, which influences their perception of employment prospects. Word-of-mouth recommendations, social media influence, and success stories of Indian expatriates contribute to a positive image of working in Europe. Many Indian students pursue higher education in European universities, which often provide post-study work opportunities. As a result, Europe remains as an attractive destination for both education and employment, reinforcing the perception that the region offers long-term career benefits. This article explores the reasons behind this perception, drawing on data collected by the Lokniti-CSDS in collaboration with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS).

Employment opportunities

A substantial proportion of Indians (63%) believe that Europe offers better employment opportunities than India (Table 1).

This perception is especially pronounced in smaller towns, where job prospects are relatively limited. Nearly three in four (72%) respondents from small cities believe that Europe provides better job opportunities compared to three in five in mid-sized and big cities (Table 2).

The attraction to the European job market stems from the presence of structured career growth opportunities, professional development programs, and access to high-skilled jobs that may not be as readily available in India. Moreover, countries such as Germany, the U.K., and France have introduced policies that encourage skilled migration.

Additionally, according to the survey, nearly 62% of respondents believe that workers in Europe earn more than their Indian counterparts for the same work (Table 3).

This wage disparity is reinforced by personal networks, as individuals with family or relatives in Europe are more likely to perceive a substantial difference in earnings. Nearly three in four (72%) respondents with family members working abroad believe that people in Europe earn more for the same work, compared to three in five among those without such family connections (Table 4).

Indian professionals and skilled workers believe that their skills are valued more highly in European job markets, where competitive salaries, social security benefits, and better working conditions provide strong financial incentives.

The aspiration for better employment prospects has led many Indians to consider relocating to Europe. Nearly one in six (15%) respondents in the survey reported plans to apply for a work visa to Europe, while some have already initiated the process. Among those seeking employment abroad, the key motivations include higher wages (38%), career growth opportunities (21%), and access to developed infrastructure (7%) (Table 5).

Beyond employment and wages, lifestyle factors also influence perceptions of Europe as a desirable work destination. More than half (51%) of survey respondents believe that life in Europe is more comfortable than in India whereas a little over one in four (27%) don’t agree with this. This belief is strongest among younger (60%) and highly educated individuals (57%), while it declines with age and lower education levels. Factors contributing to this perception include access to superior healthcare, better public infrastructure, and social welfare benefits. Exposure to Western media, including films and social media, has reinforced the idea that Europe offers a higher standard of living (Table 6).

The perception of Europe as a land of better job opportunities is driven by multiple factors, including higher wages, structured career growth, financial incentives, and lifestyle advantages. Survey data reveals that a significant percentage of Indians believe that Europe offers better employment prospects and a better standard of living. This perception is reinforced by exposure to global networks, Western media, and personal success stories of close networks.

The authors are researchers at Lokniti-CSDS. This analysis is based on data collected during a comprehensive study on Indian Perceptions of Europe and Germany, jointly undertaken by Lokniti-CSDS with financial support from the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, India Office.