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Tags:
europe, international_work, legal_permission, peace_corps, teaching_english_as_a_foreign_language, temporary_work_permit, unusual careers, volunteer_programs, working_abroad, work_exchange_program, work_exchange_programs, work_programsAre they right for you?
 Working abroad can be a great way to gain valuable life experience, or simply a wild adventure that you will remember for the rest of your life. But before you make the decision to begin a job search overseas, there are a few things to consider. Searching for international work is much more difficult than searching domestically. But with some research, nothing is impossible.
Getting Permission
One of the biggest challenges working abroad is gaining legal permission to do so. In all countries, even the United States, foreigners need special permission to work or live in that country for an extended period of time. Obtaining a work permit visa can be difficult, since they are usually available only after an employer has offered you a job. The catch? Most employers won’t offer you a job unless you have a work permit.
Current Employment Opportunities
One way around this seemingly impossible situation is through a work exchange program. Work exchange programs help find you a job and provide you with a temporary work permit. The programs can last anywhere from a few weeks (for short-term volunteer programs) to 2 years (for teaching abroad programs or long-term volunteering through the Peace Corps or United Nations).
Finding Your Niche
For those interested in earning their way while abroad, short-term work programs frequently involve restaurant, temping, childcare (au pair) and farm work. These placements are usually located in Europe and can last up to six months.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL or ESL) is one of the most popular ways to work abroad. Most programs require a college degree and are located in Asia or Eastern Europe. Teaching or tutoring experience is recommended, but knowledge of the native language is not usually required. ESLWorldwide.com can help you find a job teaching English anywhere in the world. The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET), administered by the Japanese government, is the largest single program for teaching English abroad.
More permanent positions are more difficult, but certainly not impossible to find. CareerBuilder International offers several different job sites from many different countries. Dragon Surf: Career Wise is devoted to providing information on careers – not jobs – in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Reed Online lets you search forjobs in the U.K. and Bilingual-Jobs.com is an excellent resource for those interested in a bilingual career.
Other International Job Resources:
- International Employment Resources
A comprehensive list of international employment resources from Employment Spot.
- Overseasjobs.com
Their International Job Resources guide lists hundreds of worldwide career, employment, job and recruiter sites in over 45 countries.
- University of San Francisco Career Services
The international listing offers an extensive list of resources for international employment.
- About.com
A comprehensive alphabetical list of sites offering information on international job opportunities.
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