Workers in the digital sector are one of the professional groups most willing to move for work-related reasons. More than two-thirds are willing to move to a different country to advance their careers. And, although the majority point to the United States as the preferred destination for advancement, Spain is among the 10 most attractive countries in the world for this group.

Specifically, it ranks number 8, ahead of other destinations such as Japan and Italy, which are viewed with less interest by industry professionals. The data was drawn from the ‘Decoding Digital Talent’ study based on a sample of 27,000 surveys conducted in 180 different countries of professionals with expertise in areas such as programming and web development, mobile application development, artificial intelligence, robotics and engineering.

Spain is especially attractive to talent from countries in Europe and Central Asia, where it ranks eighth (just its place in the world ranking) and among experts from Latin America, where it is positioned as the most attractive country in the world after the United States.

As for the U.S. giant, home to major technology companies, Spain is positioned as the tenth favorite destination in the world for its engineers. Language and geographic proximity play an important role in defining the most attractive markets to work in.

But… what else do experts value when moving from one country to another?

According to the study, digital experts put work/life balance and learning and training at the top of their preferences. Opportunities for professional development and the possibility of maintaining good relationships with colleagues are other factors most valued among 26 options. Financial compensation ranks only fifth on the list.

And what are the most attractive cities in the world for digital experts?

Without a doubt, London. But beware, Barcelona occupies a meritorious fifth position, ahead of cities such as Paris, Dubai, Los Angeles and Sydney and only surpassed by Berlin, Amsterdam and New York.

The scenario is promising. Spain is one of the most attractive destinations in the world for digital experts, most of whom are willing to change city and country if the offer is attractive. And it is not so much the financial remuneration that plays a role, as one might think, but other factors such as learning, professional development and work-life balance, something that cities like Barcelona or Madrid can offer. Attracting digital talent, with the innumerable benefits it has for the economy and society, is now more than ever within our reach.