When moving to a new country, one of the most daunting challenges is the language barrier. If you’re not fluent in the local language, it can feel like you’re navigating through unfamiliar waters. English, as the world’s second most spoken language, is often a helpful bridge while learning the local tongue. However, not all countries embrace English equally, and depending on where you are in Europe, your English-speaking skills could either be a great asset or a hindrance.
Each year, the global education company Education First (EF) ranks countries based on their English proficiency through its English Proficiency Index (EPI). The index evaluates data from over 2.2 million adults who took the EF’s standardized English tests in 2022, scoring each country out of a possible 800 points. So, where can you travel in Europe and expect to communicate effectively in English, and where will you need to brush up on the local language?
The Best English-Speaking Countries in Europe
1. The Netherlands
The Netherlands consistently tops the list as the country with the highest English proficiency in Europe. With a score of 647 points, it holds the number one position both in Europe and worldwide. The Dutch people are known for their impressive command of English, making it a great place for English speakers to visit and live. Whether you’re in the bustling streets of Amsterdam or the charming town of Utrecht, you’re likely to find locals who can engage in fluent conversations in English.
2. Austria
Coming in at a global third place with 616 points, Austria is another European country where English is widely understood. Austrians generally speak excellent English, especially in major cities like Vienna and Salzburg. With its rich culture and history, Austria remains a fantastic destination where language is less of a barrier, allowing tourists to focus more on the beauty and heritage of the country.
3. Scandinavian Countries: Denmark, Norway, and Sweden
The Scandinavian countries dominate the top ranks in Europe for English proficiency. Denmark ranks fourth globally, Norway is in fifth, and Sweden takes the sixth spot. With scores ranging from 600 to 616 points, these countries have long been known for their exceptional command of English. It’s common to encounter locals who not only speak English fluently but do so with an impressive level of precision and clarity.
4. Belgium, Portugal, and Germany
Belgium, Portugal, and Germany round out the top tier of European countries with high English proficiency. Belgium, with its multilingual population, scores high in English, and major cities like Brussels have many English speakers. Portugal, famous for its sunny beaches and rich history, is another country where English is widely spoken, particularly in Lisbon and Porto. Germany, despite being a non-English-first country, scores a solid 609 points, with English being commonly understood, especially in urban areas like Berlin and Munich.
Countries with “High” English Proficiency
Several other European countries also rank highly for English proficiency, offering a fairly easy experience for English-speaking travelers. These countries include:
- Poland (13th globally)
- Finland
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Hungary
- Slovakia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Estonia
- Serbia
- Czech Republic
- Switzerland (30th globally)
While these countries are not in the very top tier, they still demonstrate a strong grasp of English. In these places, you’re likely to find English-speaking locals, especially in larger cities or tourist hotspots. As a result, tourists can usually get by without needing to learn the local language right away.
Countries with “Moderate” English Proficiency
Some of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations have a more moderate grasp of English, which could present a challenge for visitors who don’t know the local language. These countries include:
1. France
France has been a steady performer in English proficiency rankings. However, in recent years, it has seen a decline in the level of English-speaking ability. In 2022, France dropped to the “moderate” category, ranking 34th globally with 541 points. This was a significant drop from its “high proficiency” status in 2021. While major cities like Paris and Lyon have many English-speaking residents, rural areas might pose more difficulty for English speakers.
2. Italy and Spain
Italy and Spain also fall under the “moderate” category, both sharing the 35th spot globally with 535 points. Although both countries have a significant number of people who speak English, the overall proficiency varies widely depending on the region. English speakers will generally have no problem in tourist destinations like Rome, Barcelona, or Milan, but less touristic regions might present a language barrier.
3. Georgia and Belarus
Interestingly, both Georgia and Belarus outperform Italy and Spain in English proficiency. They rank 32nd and 33rd globally, respectively, which suggests that while English is not the most widely spoken language in these countries, there are still a significant number of people who can communicate in English, especially in larger cities or tourist areas.
4. Moldova, Albania, Russia, Ukraine, and Armenia
Other European countries in the “moderate” category include Moldova (35th), Albania, Russia, Ukraine, and Armenia (48th). While you may find English speakers in major cities, the proficiency is often lower compared to Western European countries. Learning some basic local phrases would be beneficial for visitors planning to travel to these countries.
Countries with “Low” English Proficiency
If you’re planning to visit countries like Turkey and Azerbaijan, where English proficiency is lower, you may face more challenges in communication. These countries rank 66th and 83rd globally, respectively, falling into the “low proficiency” category. In these countries, knowing some of the local language or using translation tools might be necessary for everyday interactions.
The Decline of English Proficiency Across Europe
While Europe generally boasts high levels of English proficiency, there has been a noticeable decline in recent years. According to EF’s latest report, many high and very high proficiency countries in Europe have shown slight drops in their scores. This could be attributed to various factors, including the global pandemic’s impact on education and language learning.
Moreover, a disturbing trend has emerged among young adults aged 18 to 20, whose English proficiency has dropped significantly since 2020. The disruption in schooling caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has affected language acquisition, leading to fewer opportunities for young people to learn and practice English effectively.
Native English Speakers: A Surprising Deficiency
While English is often considered the global lingua franca, native English speakers tend to fall behind when it comes to learning additional languages. According to a 2018 European Commission study, only 32% of young people in the UK reported being able to confidently read and write in two or more languages. This is quite low compared to the average of 80% in EU member states. In Spain, 85% of young people can read and write in two or more languages, and in Italy, the figure is 90%.
This linguistic complacency among native English speakers could soon pose a challenge in a world where multilingualism is becoming an increasingly valuable skill.
Where to Go to Improve Your Language Skills
If you’re looking to improve your language proficiency, some European countries make it easier to learn new languages. Countries like Serbia, Portugal, and Romania are known for their language-learning-friendly environments, according to a study by the language-learning platform Preply. These countries offer a combination of accessible language courses, affordable living costs, and rich cultural experiences, making them ideal places for travelers looking to expand their linguistic abilities.
Europe remains a fantastic destination for English-speaking travelers, but the level of English proficiency varies across the continent. While countries like the Netherlands, Austria, and the Scandinavian nations make it easy to communicate in English, others, including France, Spain, and Italy, may require more effort on the part of visitors. Understanding these differences can help travelers plan their trips accordingly, ensuring they have a smooth and enjoyable experience in the diverse countries of Europe.