Vitor Correia – From Portugal!

Vitor from Portugal is 29 years old and has studied mechanical engineering. After his Masters’ thesis in Germany, he decided to go back to his home country to work and travel. The idea of ​​working abroad had been in the back of his mind for a long time. So finally, he decided to take the plunge and come to the Netherlands. After all, he already had a lot of friends here!

So why did you choose to work abroad actually?

“It’s good for your personal and professional development. I’ve always wanted to get out of my comfort zone. I had worked 9 months in Germany, but I wanted more! I wanted to learn more about different cultures so I could develop both my professional and personal side. Working abroad has given me better working conditions compared to Portugal. A better salary, and in every way better quality of life!”

So how did you experience the process of working abroad?

”In my case, it was straightforward. I received a lot of support from Xelvin. I just applied and did the interviews with Xelvin and the company. Roel gave me a lot of good support. I was pleased because Roel basically arranged all the appointments. From the bank to the expat service, it was all really smooth. One minute I was in Portugal, then all of a sudden, I was in the Netherlands. I even had a house. It was so easy! Roel was always at the end of the phone. If I had any doubts, he helped me and gave me the guidance that I needed. He even helped me prepare for the interviews.”

What did you actually use to find jobs abroad?

“LinkedIn is a great tool. I used that platform the most, and I think it is the best way to find a job and come abroad. I chose the Netherlands straight away because I knew there were excellent opportunities here for me. You can also use many other websites. The internet is always good; there are plenty of jobs out there!”

If you look at where you are right now, would you still choose to work abroad?

“Yeah, without a doubt. Like I said before, the working conditions are much better in the Netherlands. In Portugal, it is customary to work at least 9 to 10 hours a day, and the salaries are pretty low. When I got here, I thought I was in paradise because the Dutch have a nice balance between private life and work. When you arrive here, it feels amazing!

So what would you tell someone if he/she is doubting about working abroad?

”I would explain that your income and working conditions are excellent in the Netherlands and that you can build a future and live an amazing life here. My friends actually convinced me to take the step, the step of working abroad. I mean, 40 days of holidays, you won’t see that in Portugal!”

Are you also interested in moving to the Netherlands? Then, have a look at our vacancies!

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