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  • Writer's pictureZara McLean

How To Travel and Work Abroad - The Beginner's Guide

Updated: Feb 20, 2023

Looking for a way to break out of your mundane 9 to 5? Want to combine vacation with your career? If you're up for an adventure, then you've come to the right place! Here you'll find unique and exciting ways to explore how to start working abroad and some insight on work abroad ideas. Get ready for some inspiring job ideas that will have you packing your bags in no time.



Working abroad is an exciting prospect for many, allowing them to experience different cultures, meet new people and explore the world in a meaningful way. Whether working as an English language teacher, completing a short-term internship or taking on a seasonal job, it's important to evaluate the different options that are available.

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For individuals who are keen on fully immersing themselves in their destination country, there are opportunities to replicate their current career through foreign employment.


This could be within the same industry or sector in which they already work but with a company based outside of their home country.



Alternatively, individuals may wish to gain experience in a completely new role or related field; this could be accomplished through taking on freelance work or starting a business or even volunteering with an international non-governmental organization (NGO).


No matter what decision is made, it's important to consider the qualifications needed for gaining any type of foreign employment. Factors such as visas and residence permits must also be taken into consideration before beginning any job abroad.


Hopefully, this guide will provide you with some information and inspiration when thinking about working abroad


Is Working Abroad good for your career?

For many people, the idea of working abroad can be exciting and intimidating at the same time. It helps to break down the challenges into each of their component parts and evaluate how each could benefit from working abroad. Here are some of the benefits that should be considered when contemplating a work abroad experience:


Personal growth - Working in a new environment can provide unique challenges that help individuals grow in ways that would not be possible in familiar surroundings. Immersing oneself in a different culture brings opportunities to pick up new skills, gain self-confidence and demonstrate initiative.


Language learning - Learning the language of one’s host nation is an essential part of fully immersing oneself overseas and enjoying the culture to its fullest extent. Not only can it improve communication with native speakers, but it provides insight into cultural idiosyncrasies as well as bridging gaps between professional colleagues and clients.


Professional development - Working abroad opens up opportunities to make beneficial professional contacts, learn new technologies through job-specific training opportunities, or even pursue higher learning by taking classes or earning certifications or degrees during free time outside of work hours.

Develop cross-cultural competency - Being able to interact with people from many different countries is becoming increasingly valued in our globalized society — particularly for employers looking for ways to expand their international operations efficiently and effectively without having to invest heavily in language skills training for existing staff members.


Developing an understanding of different cultural value systems is crucial for the success of any international venture and will help ensure lasting relationships between foreign stakeholders, partners or customers during transitioning projects or management roles.


Job recognition - Many employers look favourably on resumes which include international experience since it demonstrates someone is open-minded about tackling unique challenges with confidence as well as ability for self-direction when placed in unfamiliar environments outside their comfort zone – traits which bode well for future success within organizations attempting international expansion efforts.


Types of Jobs Available Abroad

Finding a job opportunity abroad can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Opportunities range from short-term travel positions to longer-term career pathways. Popular job categories in foreign countries include teaching, marketing, hospitality, finance, customer service and technical skills opportunities. Depending on the job of interest and the qualifications you have to offer, a successful search for an international job can take time and research.


Teaching jobs are some of the most sought-after abroad positions. Those interested may consider looking for jobs through an international educational organization or research potential openings directly with private language schools or public school systems outside their home country. Many English-speaking countries opt to hire native English speakers to teach English to local students or business professionals. The pay rate varies depending on the country and is often comparable to or higher than teaching within one’s home country.

Hospitality jobs such as resorts make up another popular target for working abroad seekers because many resorts are always looking for motivated professionals able to function well in different cultures as well as contribute ideas on how they can improve their customer service experience. Many hospitality jobs look great on resumes today due to the increase of global market importance such experiences provide their employees with when they finally enter mainstream markets afterwards upon their return home from an international stint abroad either short term or long term.


Technical skills such as software development and web design open up a world of possibilities since these professions have been essential in today’s global economy. With knowledge being free-flowing across different continents due largely in part by internet usage growth spurring opportunities which otherwise were not available before its emergence onto the scene two decades ago.


Working Abroad Job Opportunities


The steps to finding a job abroad can vary depending on an individual’s goals, skillset, and opportunities in the countries of their choice. Some potential options for finding a job in another country can include applying for jobs abroad online through job search engines, attending job fairs, leveraging professional contacts and international networks (e.g., alumni associations), volunteering internationally, joining expatriate communities for information on job openings, or working with recruiters specializing in international placements.


1. Online Job Search Engines: Sites such as GoAbroad.com and Indeed Global provide access to hundreds of opportunities to work abroad. These sites are useful if you already know the type of job or sector you want to pursue - they display various jobs in different locations all over the world that target different skill sets.


2. Job Fairs: The popularity of these fairs has grown substantially in recent years as they become an asset-based method of screening candidates for international employers; this is a sensible option if you have a specific location or multiple locations you wish to work abroad on the agenda.


3. Professional Contacts and International Networks: Leveraging your existing contacts such as alumni associations allows arrangements for more specialised roles that may not be open for public application at present. Also connecting with professionals within the locality increase your chances of gaining entry into certain jobs that are restricted by certain networks.


Joining discussion groups run by expats from similar backgrounds can also prove beneficial when seeking employment abroad; this provides insight into current labour market trends within desired localities and nets new contacts which could hold valuable resources when it comes down to applying for a job in another country.

4. Volunteering Internationally: Participating in volunteering programs gives applicants insight into their chosen region/country as well as first-hand experience while networking extensively -allowing them access to various parts of the recruitment cycle ranging from informal interviews/placement talks right up to experienced HR representatives who may be able to decide upon suitable shortlist interviewees beforehand with increased efficiency depending on current demand and connections available.


Working abroad is also highly fulfilling with many rewarding initiatives worth considering such as non-profit organisations (NGO's) looking out for suitable candidates who are fully willing to help execute their cause with practical action!

Requirements When Working Abroad


Preparing to work abroad can be as daunting as it is exciting. It’s important to understand what you need to consider before making the move, and what type of activities you can pursue while overseas.


It’s a great idea to research the industry or sector you want to work in ahead of time, and make sure that your skills and qualifications are valid within the target country. Resume writing isn't always a cultural practice abroad, so understanding local job application methods is key. However, should you require resume writing services, you may contact professional resume freelancers for assistance.


Understanding how negotiations work and researching working hours, holidays and pay-rates will also help you feel prepared for overseas employment opportunities. Cultural understanding is critical when beginning a new job in a foreign country, so researching common etiquette before starting is important.


In addition, finding ways to connect with other expats locally can also be beneficial for adapting to another culture quickly. Language learning will help open up many more doors than basic conversational English could ever hope to achieve; employers will appreciate it if you already have some language skills when interviewing for jobs.


Working abroad has the potential to be far more profitable than staying home; relocation packages often come with higher salaries accompanied by lower living costs depending on the destination chosen — these small details can be critical in deciding if it’s worth your while accepting a job offer overseas! Ultimately, being prepared is key when taking on an international role: research every detail you can think of, decide on your goal location early and align any necessary certification or visa requirements with this geographical decision, along with planning how long you wish your stay abroad should be!

Working Abroad Challenges


Working abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider all of the challenges that may come up. It’s essential that you do some research in order to make sure you’re prepared for any of the difficulties that may be encountered while living and working overseas. Some of the challenges of working abroad include:


-Cultural differences: Even if your new job is in an English-speaking country, there may still be cultural nuances that you need to adjust to in order to function effectively in your new environment. This may include different customs and social practices, or even language barriers.


-Adapting to your new surroundings: You may have trouble adjusting to a new environment if it differs significantly from your home country or city. You will need time to get used to a different climate, different food, transportation systems and living arrangements. Transportation ranges from road, rail, marine, air and Intermodal transportation.


-Financial concerns: Moving abroad can be expensive, especially when job prospects are uncertain. Managing a foreign bank account or currency exchange rates can also create additional stressors for those who are unfamiliar with their financial situation abroad.


-Documentation issues: Obtaining necessary visas and work permits can be difficult if you don't know exactly what paperwork is required from which agency or government body. It's important to familiarize yourself with local laws as they relate to employment before embarking on this journey so things run smoothly once abroad.

How to start working abroad?


Working abroad can be a great way to immerse yourself in another culture, gain professional experience and personal growth, and even make some extra money. However, it can also be intimidating to step outside your comfort zone and find a job in a foreign country. Here are some tips that should help you get started in the work abroad search:


- Research Your Options: With so many opportunities to work abroad from teaching English to working on a cruise ship or digital nomad lifestyle, research is necessary to decide which opportunity is right for you. Many employment resources such as internships, volunteer programs, and job boards specialize in helping people find work abroad. Do your research on the available opportunities and initiatives that are available to you.


- Get Started Early: As with any job search process, the earlier you start looking the better chances you’ll have at finding a suitable job quickly. It takes time for paperwork processing, visas and permits so it’s best to begin searching for jobs well before your departure date so there's plenty of time for preparation and completion of requirements before beginning your job.


-Gather Necessary Supporting Documentation: Depending on the type of job you want or visa requirements you may need medical records, bank statements or other documents that can attest to your ability to stay healthy and make enough money while outside of your home country. Even if it isn't required initially for the role or visa request, having these documents handy will save time later down the line if needed for employment purposes.


- Stay Connected with Employers: Before starting any new job at home or abroad make sure to stay connected with employers throughout the process. Check-in via email or phone between interviews or applications periodical so they remember who was interested in their company during the first application stage as this will help increase chances of getting hired when hiring new employees come up again later down line .


Resources for Working Abroad


If you're looking to explore the world and gain experience in an international job market, consider working abroad. Many countries offer opportunities for skill-based and seasonal work that can satisfy your need for adventure. Though there are many ways to find a job overseas, there are a few reliable resources to get you started on your search.


With the help of the internet, connecting with employers in foreign markets has become much easier. Websites such as Upwork or Guru allow you to search for jobs from all over the world or within specific countries or regions. If you already have experience in a professional field like finance or engineering, then you can use LinkedIn's job search tool to see what's available in other countries.


In addition to online job websites, there are also abroad programs like WorkingAbroad which connects qualified applicants with internships at partner organizations around the globe. These programs cover everything from finding suitable accommodation to helping with visa applications, so it's worth considering if this type of opportunity interests you.


Another way of finding work is through volunteer programs such as volunteers Initiative Nepal which helps assist community initiatives in different countries by providing skilled foreign volunteers with physically challenging and meaningful experiences throughout their service period. Many voluntary positions provide housing, community support and guidance as well as cooperative learning opportunities depending on your skillset and the organization’s needs.


No matter what resource you use when looking for work abroad, researching potential employers thoroughly beforehand is essential to ensure that they are legitimate businesses and will provide fair wages and working conditions during your travels. Good luck!

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