To better understand these differences, we compared employment costs across 21 EMEA countries using a unified scenario based on a EUR 1,000 net salary. The comparison covered Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Egypt, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey and Ukraine.
The results show that the same net salary can generate very different employer expenses depending on the country.
Across Baltic countries, for example, total employer expenses range from EUR 1,102 to EUR 1,387 in Estonia, depending on the applicable tax-free allowance and funded pension rate. In Latvia, the total cost reaches EUR 1,593.95, while Lithuania ranges from EUR 1,481 to EUR 1,770, depending on the applicable social security contribution rate.
Beyond standard payroll taxes, some countries also apply additional obligations such as disability funds, military taxes or industry-related charges that employers should account for when budgeting international operations.
For businesses planning cross-border hiring, understanding these differences early can help reduce compliance risks and improve financial planning. Explore the full infographic on Accace website for a complete overview of all 21 countries.
FROM LOCAL TO GLOBAL: YOUR EXPERT GUIDE FOR CROSS-BORDER GROWTH
This infographic is brought to you by the Accace Circle business community. Access practical insight from industry experts across 60+ countries within Accace Circle, shared through ongoing webinars, podcasts and publications, to support your international expansion.
The figures are based on a standardised calculation scenario and the tax and social contribution rules applicable in April 2026. Actual employer costs may vary depending on individual circumstances and legislative changes. Data in this infographic is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice.
