How to Live & Work Overseas

Do you often dream of giving it all up and starting afresh somewhere new? Everyone has thought about what it would be like to live in a different country, but fear of the unknown stops most people. Of course it’s not that easy, it takes courage and planning, but the rewards are well worth it.

The first step to acheiving your dream isto decide where you want to go. It should be somwhere you’ve always wanted to live, but it also has to be practical. It helps if you can speak the language so if English is your one and only consider the UK or Australia. If however you want to learn the language while there look into classes you could take before leaving so you’ll have a grasp on it. If you work for a large company you may be able to get a transfer to an international branch. If not start looking for work before you book your flights.

Get all the paper-work out of the way fast. You’ll need your passport, and a working Visa. It’s easier to get a working Visa for some countries more than others, so do your research. If you’ve already found work before you go the company may be willing to sponsor you for a Visa. This is ideal. If you’re not so lucky make sure you allow lot’s of time to receive your Visa. Going on a tourist Visa then trying to change it to a working Visa is not a good idea.

You can find a place to rent and set up local bank accounts when you arrive, but make sure you have plenty of cash to tide you over in the interim. If you don’t find a job right away you’ll be in trouble without a few thousand in your bank account.

Finally don’t close the door on your old life. Who knows, you may hate living overseas and want to come back sooner than expected. Maintain relationships so you’ll have the option of picking up where you left off.