The local language can be the difference between feeling at home in a year and feeling like a guest for a decade. The good news for English speakers is that some European languages are far gentler to learn than others. This guide ranks all 27 EU countries by how approachable the local language is.
Why some languages come easier
- Closeness to English: shared roots and vocabulary give you a running start.
- Simpler grammar and spelling: fewer cases and more predictable rules.
- Exposure: a language you already hear in music and film is easier to absorb.
All 27 EU countries by how easy the language is
Here is where MoveMap’s model rates each EU country’s main language for an English speaker, easiest first (illustrative scores only):
| Country | Language ease* | Local language |
|---|---|---|
| Ireland | 70 | English |
| Spain | 70 | Spanish |
| Italy | 65 | Italian |
| Portugal | 60 | Portuguese |
| Denmark | 50 | Danish |
| France | 50 | French |
| Netherlands | 50 | Dutch |
| Sweden | 50 | Swedish |
| Austria | 45 | German |
| Belgium | 45 | Dutch, French |
| Germany | 45 | German |
| Luxembourg | 45 | French, German |
| Romania | 45 | Romanian |
| Malta | 40 | Maltese, English |
| Croatia | 35 | Croatian |
| Cyprus | 35 | Greek |
| Czechia | 35 | Czech |
| Greece | 35 | Greek |
| Poland | 35 | Polish |
| Slovakia | 35 | Slovak |
| Slovenia | 35 | Slovenian |
| Bulgaria | 30 | Bulgarian |
| Latvia | 30 | Latvian |
| Lithuania | 30 | Lithuanian |
| Estonia | 25 | Estonian |
| Finland | 20 | Finnish |
| Hungary | 20 | Hungarian |
Easy or not, learning still pays
A tougher language is not a reason to cross a country off your list. Even basic local language opens doors that English never will: friendships, jobs, smaller towns and a smoother time with bureaucracy. And many residence and citizenship routes expect a language test anyway, often around A2 to B1. Pick the country first, then commit to the language.
Match it to your plans
How much language ease matters depends on whether you will work in English, need a local job or plan to naturalize. The MoveMap check weighs it alongside everything else to rank all 27 EU countries for you.