If you’re in turf management or groundskeeping, working in Europe can be a great way to gain international experience and learn new techniques in different working environments. Many European countries offer temporary work visas that allow UK citizens to live and work for a set period, with opportunities in golf courses, sports stadiums, public parks, and other sporting venues across the continent.
The information in this article is accurate to March 2025. Note that Visa requirements, costs, and eligibility factors may change, so always check the latest guidance before you apply.
Table of Contents
What Visas Are Available for Working in Europe?
Since the UK left the EU, UK citizens no longer have the automatic right to work in Europe. But that doesn’t mean working in Europe is no longer an option at all. Several countries offer temporary work visas or seasonal work permits that allow non-EU citizens to take on short-term jobs.
Popular options include:
- Spain Seasonal Work Visa
- France Seasonal Work Permit (Titre de Séjour Travailleur Saisonnier)
- Germany Job Seeker Visa (for skilled workers)
- Ireland Working Holiday Visa (for applicants aged 18-35)
- Netherlands Seasonal Work Visa
- Italy Seasonal Work Visa
Each country has its own requirements, including the type of work allowed, the duration of the visa, and whether or not you need a job offer before applying.
Who Can Apply?
The eligibility criteria for a seasonal work visa in Europe will depend on the country you’re applying to, but in most cases, you’ll need:
- A valid UK passport
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself
- Health insurance coverage
- A job offer or contract from an employer (in some countries)
- A clean criminal record
Some visas, like the French seasonal work permit, are designed specifically for agricultural or hospitality work. But turf management roles on golf courses, sports fields, and public parks usually fall under seasonal work categories.
How to Apply
Most European countries require you to apply for a work visa before you enter the country. The application process usually involves submitting your documents to the local embassy or consulate in the UK, paying a fee (which varies depending on the visa you’re applying for), and attending an appointment.
The time it takes to process visas can vary, so it’s best to start your application several months before you plan to travel. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and that you have all the paperwork that you’ll need, both for the application and when you arrive.
Finding Work in Turf Management
The best way to find work in turf management across Europe is to be proactive. While some larger facilities might advertise positions through job boards or recruitment agencies, many jobs in turf management are filled through word of mouth or by contacting the venue directly.
So, research clubs and organisations in your chosen destination and reach out to them with your CV. You’ll also find it beneficial to join industry groups like International Greenkeepers for Hire, which can help you find opportunities ahead of time.
Countries like Spain, Portugal, and France have busy golf seasons, and clubs in these countries usually need extra staff in spring and summer. Northern European countries, including Germany and the Netherlands, also have strong demand for groundskeepers at sports stadiums and public parks during peak seasons.
At International Greenkeepers for Hire, one of our key roles is to help people from all over the world connect with turf management jobs in Europe and beyond. You can use our Turf Passport system to get your CV in front of clubs and organisations seeking skilled workers, and browse our Facebook group and LinkedIn for job opportunities. Joining our network gives you access to an international community of greenkeepers, helping you find the right role before you even arrive.
Work Permits in Ireland
Ireland’s Working Holiday Visa is one of the easiest options for UK citizens looking to work in Europe, so it’s well worth considering if you’re aged between 18 and 35. The visa lets you stay for up to 12 months and take on short-term jobs, including groundskeeping roles.
Ireland’s mild climate and growing number of golf courses make it a popular spot for turf management work. But, of course, it’s not a whole lot different from the UK, so if you’re searching for warmer weather or you want to challenge yourself with significantly different turf conditions, you’ll probably want to look further afield.
Preparing for Your Move
Accommodation, healthcare, and local tax requirements can differ from country to country, so you’ll need to thoroughly research your destination and understand how you’ll need to prepare to live and work there before you travel.
In most countries, you’ll need to register with the local tax authorities and open a bank account to receive your wages. Health insurance is also often mandatory, and you may need to show proof of your coverage when you’re applying for your visa. Plus, you’ll need to prove that you have enough money to cover your expenses while you’re living abroad, and some countries require you to show a specific minimum bank balance.
The cost of living varies widely across Europe. Regardless of where you’re planning to move, cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin are always going to be more expensive than rural areas. If you’re looking for affordable living, Spain, Portugal, and Italy are particularly worth looking into.
Make the Most of Your Experience
Working in Europe can give you the chance to learn new skills and experience life in a different culture. You don’t usually need to know the language to work overseas, but you’ll probably pick up the basics while you’re there.
You’ll want to make the most of your opportunity, which means taking the time to explore the country you’re in. It’s well worth visiting local landmarks or travelling to nearby cities (or even countries that are more accessible than they are from the UK) on your days off.
If you’re thinking about working in Europe, here are the next steps that we recommend taking:
- Join our Facebook group to find job opportunities for British workers in Europe
- Submit your profile on Turf Passport and share your availability to get your name in front of clubs and organizations seeking qualified turf management professionals.
- Apply for the working holiday visa of your choice.