In which EU countries do the most Ukrainians work in 2026

More than half of the Ukrainians of working age residing in European countries are already integrated into the labor markets; however, the level of employment varies significantly depending on the country. As of mid-2025, 57% of Ukrainian refugees aged 20–64 were employed, which is 22 percentage points lower than the average among citizens of host countries. This is reported by Visit Ukraine.

These data are contained in a study by UNHCR, which also notes that Ukrainians often face language barriers and are forced to work below their qualifications.

Employment of Ukrainians in the EU: countries with the highest indicators

The best results are recorded in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, as well as in countries with flexible labor markets. The highest level of employment among Ukrainians is found in:

• Estonia — 72%

• Hungary — 71%

• United Kingdom — 69%

• Poland — 68%

• Bulgaria — 67%

• Czech Republic — 66%

• Netherlands — 64%.

Analysts explain these indicators by active integration programs, demand for labor, and cultural or linguistic proximity.

Employment of Ukrainians in Europe: where is it the most difficult

In northern and some western European countries, the situation is more complicated due to strict language requirements and the need for diploma recognition. The lowest employment rates are recorded in:

• Sweden — 43%

• Finland — 40%

• Denmark — 39%

• Germany — 39%

• Norway — 37%

• Switzerland — 29%.

The study also shows that nearly 60% of employed Ukrainians in Europe work below their level of education. This, according to estimates from the UN, is a key reason for the 40% gap in median salaries between Ukrainians and local workers.

It should be noted that Ukrainians in Poland are employed at 80%, which significantly exceeds the indicators of other countries.