For Nigerians and other Africans considering Europe as a destination for work or study, one of the most important factors is the minimum wage.
The minimum wage tells you the lowest salary employers are legally required to pay workers, and in countries where the cost of living is high, this figure plays a big role in determining quality of life.
Within the Schengen Area; the zone of 29 European countries that allow free movement of people without border checks, minimum wages vary widely. While some nations like Italy, Denmark, and Sweden rely on collective bargaining agreements rather than statutory minimum wages, others enforce a legally defined national minimum wage.
According to the latest Eurostat and related reports for 2025, here are the nine Schengen countries with the highest monthly minimum wages.
1. Luxembourg – €2,638
Luxembourg leads the Schengen area and the entire European Union with the highest minimum wage. Workers in Luxembourg earn €2,638 gross per month, making it one of the most attractive destinations for foreign workers.
- Why it matters: Despite its high cost of living, the generous wage ensures better purchasing power.
2. Ireland – €2,282
Ireland comes second, with workers guaranteed at least €2,282 per month.
- Why it matters: Ireland’s booming tech and finance sectors make it an appealing destination for skilled migrants, including Nigerians.
3. Netherlands – €2,193
The Netherlands offers a gross minimum wage of €2,193, securing third place.
- Why it matters: Known for its balanced work culture and international business environment, the Netherlands is especially popular among expats.
4. Germany – €2,161
Germany increased its minimum wage to €12.82 per hour, equating to around €2,161 per month.
- Why it matters: With strong industries ranging from manufacturing to IT, Germany combines opportunity with a structured labor market.
5. Belgium – €2,070
Belgium guarantees a €2,070 monthly minimum wage, ensuring workers can meet basic needs despite the country’s relatively high living costs.
- Why it matters: Brussels, home to the EU headquarters, offers diverse job opportunities for international professionals.
6. France – €1,802
France’s SMIC (salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance) is set at €1,802 per month.
- Why it matters: While Paris is expensive, regional cities provide affordable living with the same minimum wage guarantee.
7. Spain – €1,381
Spain’s minimum wage currently stands at €1,381, higher than many other Southern European nations.
- Why it matters: Combined with lower living costs compared to France or Germany, Spain is attractive for migrants seeking balance.
8. Slovenia – €1,278
Slovenia ensures workers earn at least €1,278 monthly.
- Why it matters: Its central location in Europe and lower living costs compared to Western Europe make Slovenia a competitive choice.
9. Poland – €1,091
Poland rounds up the top nine with a €1,091 monthly minimum wage.
- Why it matters: Although lower than Western countries, Poland’s fast-growing economy and affordable lifestyle make it a gateway for many migrants.
Summary Table: Highest Minimum Wages in Schengen (2025)
| Rank | Country | € per month |
| 1 | Luxembourg | 2,638 |
| 2 | Ireland | 2,282 |
| 3 | Netherlands | 2,193 |
| 4 | Germany | 2,161 |
| 5 | Belgium | 2,070 |
| 6 | France | 1,802 |
| 7 | Spain | 1,381 |
| 8 | Slovenia | 1,278 |
| 9 | Poland | 1,091 |
The Schengen area remains one of the world’s most attractive regions for migrant workers, but minimum wages vary significantly across countries. Nations like Luxembourg, Ireland, and the Netherlands lead the pack, while countries like Poland and Slovenia offer lower wages but balance this with more affordable living costs.
For Nigerians planning to migrate, this information is crucial. It helps in comparing potential destinations, calculating cost of living, and choosing countries where professional skills can be maximized.
Whether your goal is to work in tech, healthcare, or other in-demand sectors, understanding Europe’s wage landscape ensures you make informed decisions before you japa.
