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Working Abroad - Work Visas

March 24th, 2007 by Andrew

This is Part 4 in a series on “Working Abroad.” In this series, we’ve examined the possibility of jobs abroad and highlighted some practical steps to aid an overseas career. Be sure to check out Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

If you’re thinking about working abroad, you cannot forget a crucial step: complying with the law. Countries have immigration laws that regulate people coming and going. Most countries regularly allow visitors, but actually working in another country is more complicated. This final “Working Abroad” post gives you some points to consider.

Start early

Paperwork takes time. Even if you land a great job in another country, you cannot legally work there until your paperwork is cleared. If you don’t start the paperwork until the day before you leave, you are asking for trouble.

Thus, as you think about potential work opportunities, also look at the country’s temporary work requirements. Find out how long it usually takes to process the paperwork. Give yourself plenty of time to get everything completed and approved.

Countries vary

Part of what makes this step difficult is that countries have varying requirements. For example, if you’re a citizen of a full European Union member country, you can work in another full EU member country for up to three months without any paperwork.

Aside from the EU, most countries will have varying fees and processes for obtaining your paperwork. The key is just to do your homework and understand what you need to do.

Fortunately, most countries have websites where you can find the pertinent information. Here are just a few such sites: Australia, Canada, and United States. You could also obtain information by calling or writing to the destination country’s consulate in your own country.

Get a sponsor company

In most countries, the easiest way to get a work visa is to have a company sponsor you. Countries usually favor this type of arrangement, since it shows a specific need for your talents in the country. Also, you will already have a job once you arrive in the country.

If you find a job with a foreign company (or a foreign office of a domestic company), you will already have a sponsorship lined up. Without a sponsor, you will just have to apply on your own. But it can still be done!

Plan ahead

The biggest thing to remember is to plan ahead. Do your research, find out what you need, and figure out a way to get it. There are many great online resources out there, as well resources in your local library. Utilize what you find. You’ll be on your way to a career overseas in no time!

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