Finding Job Overseas

Finding a job overseas can be very overwhelming because a lot of countries make it difficult to get jobs with local firms or to obtain work permits.

You may be faced with finding a job overseas because a spouse has been relocated, or you may just want to experience a new culture.

Whatever your reason for moving internationally, there are many routes you can take when searching for employment.

Obtain a Work Permit

Visit the official government website of the country you are relocating to in order to get the necessary information for working abroad.

The consulate or embassy should be able to help you obtain the necessary forms and give you checklists of the documentation you will need to get together in order to be approved for a work permit.

Ask questions and send as many emails as needed until you have all of the proper documentation together to apply for the work permit.

International Opportunities with American Companies

If you are currently working for a company with international offices, start applying to job openings within your company.

You may also want to contact the managers who work in the overseas offices to establish a relationship and let them know you are interested in relocating internationally.

Find out what you need to do in order to get transferred.

The managers can let you know personally when they have employment opportunities that become available.

Getting a job with a company based in your home country might be less complicated than applying for jobs based in foreign countries.

When a company relocates you overseas, the human resources department will usually handle the work permits, visas and other paperwork involved in your move.

They may also give you an international relocation package, which will help with the cost of moving abroad.

Network

Take advantage of conferences, tradeshows and other opportunities to meet potential international employers.

Ask about potential employment opportunities at their company or at other companies in your field.

Get business cards and always have your business cards available.

Follow up as soon as possible to establish a relationship with your new contacts and keep in touch every few months.

 Work Remotely

Many businesses outsource their labor, which opens up opportunities for consultants and freelancers. The internet has made working remotely a reality for many individuals.

Working remotely gives you the flexibility to move internationally while keeping a regular income flow.

Each country is different, so you will want to find out what permits and visas you need to relocate to your new country even if you will not be earning a paycheck from a local company. 

Applying for Jobs Online

There are many websites that allow you to search for jobs internationally.

Although many companies will hire local candidates before they consider international candidates, you may have a specific experience or skills that are appealing to foreign companies.

Find ways to market yourself to show potential employers the value in considering your resume.

 You may also want to plan a vacation in the country to which you wish to relocate and schedule interviews with as many companies as possible.

Showing overseas companies that you are serious about the move will increase your chances of landing a full-time paid position.

Moving with a Spouse

If you are moving internationally with a spouse for his or her job, the company your spouse works for may offer job placement assistance.

Your spouse’s company may also be able to help you obtain your work permit.

However, you will want to keep in mind that some countries only allow one spouse to be employed.

Teaching English Abroad

Many schools in foreign countries want to hire native English speakers.

Having a college degree and Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification are helpful credentials to have when landing a teaching job.

Schools will often help with relocation and can even offer housing as part of your compensation.

Teaching overseas will give you the opportunity to network with locals and open doors for future employment.

Volunteering Internationally

Although you will not get paid for your time, volunteering internationally can help you get overseas and network with local companies.

You can use the experience and your new contacts to help get a paid employment opportunity in your country of choice.

Article provided by IntlMOVE Inc.