Monday, November 18, 2019

Want to Work Abroad? These Countries are the Top Picks

There is nothing like traveling and experiencing other cultures. Not everyone has the means to travel on their savings. However, you can live and work abroad to make ends meet as you experience a different culture.

As the world becomes more interconnected, companies prefer someone that has experience with different cultures. Now, whether you want to eventually work back home or just settle abroad, having such an experience can help you land better jobs. But you should know that some places are much harder to find work in than others. Which is why we have compiled a list of 5 countries where you can easily work abroad. But before you embark on the journey, make sure you get yourself secured with travel insurance so you don’t have to worry about medical expenses.

China

China has powered its way to one of the world’s biggest economy. There are numerous multinational firms based out of China and with English being a global language, they are always seeking individuals that can communicate in it. There are numerous options as far as a job goes in China. From working at a multinational to teaching English, you can experience the Chinese culture and make a decent living in China.

As far as work visa goes, if you land a job, the company is usually responsible for handling all the formalities for a visa. They will sponsor you and can get you set up to come to China. If you plan on going there and getting a job then you will have to go through the visa process on your own which is lengthy.

Germany

As one of the biggest economies in Europe, Germany is one of those European countries where it isn’t difficult to get a job and stay. The work/life balance is great as Germans typically work 27 hours a week, giving you ample time to explore the country and its rich culture. While living is expensive, you do get a lot of perks like healthcare so it all balances out. Each city within the country has different things to offer and with the country serving as an automobile capital of the world with major brands being German, it is ideal for engineers.

Going to Germany isn’t hard, they offer a “looking for work” visa to Westerners. You can go there and once you land a job, change your visa to a work visa. You can survive with English in the country but it is also recommended that you learn basic German.

South Korea

If you are interested in teaching English, South Korea is the perfect place. The government is high on English education which means that teachers get paid well. Mix that with the fact that South Korea isn’t expensive and ranks fairly high on numerous living measures from happiness to standard of living. The country is ideal for work abroad experience. You may experience a cultural shock at first but will get used to the differences in no time.

South Korea offers different options for Western workers looking to work there. There is a visa specific to anyone wanting to teach English, the “E-2” visa. Other than that, you can either go for a “looking for work” visa which is for up to six months or a “working holiday” visa which is up to a year.

Netherlands

The Netherlands is regarded as one of the best countries for ex-pats. The working conditions are favorable and the country provides numerous benefits to workers. There are also a lot of opportunities for those looking to invest in a business or look for a job. The economy isn’t as booming as Germany but you will be able to get a job if you have expertise in a specific field.

Getting a visa for work can be a bit tricky in the Netherlands. They have a few options for those looking to start a business or invest in the “start-up” and “self-employment” visa. If you can land a job before going to the country then the company will sponsor you to come and you won’t have to worry about the visa.

New Zealand

New Zealand has a booming economy which means plenty of jobs. From IT to teaching, you have a wide variety of options when it comes to jobs in New Zealand. The country is also highly regarded by ex-pats. The country is filled with greenery and nice beaches also.

Traveling to New Zealand for work isn’t hard since it has a “working holiday” visa that permits holders to stay for 12 months looking for work. The duration of the visa is 23 months for U.K. and Canadians, giving them more time to find work and obtaining a normal work visa.

As long as you have the skillset and education needed to land a decent job, you should have no problem working abroad in any of the mentioned countries. Just make sure you do proper research before you embark on your journey.