10 Best Countries To Work Abroad
It is not always easy finding a suitable to live when deciding to go abroad. Nevertheless, we have compiled a list of 10 best countries to live and work abroad. So many factors were considered in compiling this list which includes the cost of living, the ease of getting a work visa, and the job opportunities in the country. Read on to find which country suits you.
Germany
Germany is a great country with highly organized and modern places to work in. The country is very rich in history, culture and has an unbeatable work-life balance. People in Germany work about 27 hours per week and live in good health as a result. The cost of living in Germany may be higher than what you are used to, but compared to most European countries it is way cheaper.
The cities of Germany have something special to offer, making it an excellent choice for most expats. The most populous cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt have the largest expat communities in the country. Regardless of where you end up in the country, you will get a taste of the electric charm that tends to be the flavor of the country.
Excellent healthcare, generous paid-leave, and unforgettable fun experiences await you in this country.
German work visa process
It is a bit difficult to obtain a working visa in the country, which can be as a result of the Germans’ love for bureaucracy. There are ways you can obtain a permit to work and live in Germany without much stress. Germany offers an “artist visa” that grants you residency for the purpose of self-employment. If you are a freelancer, it is relatively easy to secure that.
Citizens of most Western countries can apply for a “looking for work” visa that allows you to apply for a job while in the country and then apply for a working visa after securing a work contract. Expats can find jobs available in numerous international companies based in Germany. If you are a native language is English, it may be a lot easier to find work as well.
South Korea
South Korea is undoubtedly one of the best countries to work overseas. If you have made a series of researches before now, you would have discovered that South Korea tends to be at the top of most of this kind of rankings. There are lots of jobs available for foreigners in this country, especially those that are very fluent in English.
Working as an English teacher in South Korea is definitely a good start for any foreigner who decides to reside here. The government of South Korea has invested a lot in English education, so foreigners working as English teachers have the opportunity of saving a decent amount due to decent work benefits and low cost of living in South Korea.
South Korea has the longest working hours of any developed nation. The country might turn out to be a difficult place to live if you are not ready to make some cultural adjustments especially when it involves the working culture. South Koreans value rank and hierarchy when it comes to working for them, although most companies treat foreigners a bit friendlier because they understand the differences in culture.
South Korea has a lot to offer regardless of the long working hours. The cities of Seoul, Busan, and Daegu have a reasonable number of expat communities, rich night-lives, and delicious foods. The country is fun-filled and definitely a lifetime experience you will not want to miss out on.
South Korea work visa process
The process of obtaining a working visa in South Korea is very easy. The quickest and easiest way of obtaining a working visa in South Korea is by applying as an English teacher under South Korea’s “E-2” visa.
If you don’t really like the teaching job, there is also a “looking for job” visa that allows foreigners to live in the country for up to six months while they seek a job. There is an agreement the country has with some western countries that allow workers to enter the country on a “working holiday” visa for up to a year.
Cambodia
This is one of the countries to easily obtain a long-lasting working visa. Cambodia may not have all the comforts most Westerners crave, but it makes up for it with its laid-back culture and incredible cuisine. It is of little surprise that most expats flock to this country due to its low cost of living, deep culture, and tropical weather.
As an international worker, you can work for NGOs, international companies, or as an English teacher. Freelance workers are welcomed in this country.
Cambodia work visa process
To work legally in Cambodia, you will have to apply for a work permit upon arrival to the country. It is important to note that the country has been a bit relaxed in regards to work permits in the past.
You can obtain a residency visa by applying for a long-term “business” visa which can be renewed indefinitely at the moment.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands is a great place to work abroad. The country actively seeks out foreign entrepreneurs and workers with commendable skills to help them with programs that will aid them in investing in local companies or start up their own businesses no matter how small or big.
The country is very clean, efficient, the people are very straight to the point and the quality of life there is higher than in most European countries.
Netherlands work visa process
The process of obtaining a working visa in the Netherlands is very daunting, but if you’re to take up the task, the rewards outweigh the stress. The “start-up” visa allows foreigners to reside in the Netherlands for a year to come up with a new innovative business idea. The government also makes room for mentorship to help you grow your business.
It is important to note that most expats in the Netherlands hold at least a Master’s degree which increases your employability significantly.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is home to over 500,00 foreigners. The country is located in the heart of central Europe, it a hub for many international businesses in the area. if you choose to go overseas to the Czech Republic you won’t want to spend much time traveling – there is an abundance of beauty to experience there.
The city of Prague is one of the most charming cities in Europe. The city has something for every type of expat. There are more job opportunities in and around the city of Prague for foreigners.
The Czech Republic work visa process
There are lots of job opportunities in the Czech Republic especially if you are from a native English speaking country.
It is best to have your job lined up before arriving in the country. You will need to apply for a work permit prior to applying for your long-stay “employment” visa. It is better to apply beforehand even though the permit can be issued to nationals form many western countries who arrive in the country on a tourist visa.
China
China’s strong and powerful economy makes it a great place to work as a foreigner. Multinational companies based in China are always in need of workers who understand the western system of doing business and can speak English fluently. Although the chances of getting jobs with easy have declined over the years, there are still many job opportunities for foreigners.
There is a massive demand for native English speakers and as a result, China offers attractive benefits for those willing to relocate to China to teach English. Living in China, there is so much to explore and experience, you could never get bored living there. Nevertheless, it can be a bit frustrating for some people to adjust to the Chinese culture.
China work visa process
Working as an English teacher in China is almost painless to secure a working permit. Whichever company you decide to work for will handle the entire visa process and set you up for success. But If you decide to work outside of teaching, the process is quite similar but requires you to secure a job before arriving in China and your company will help you obtain your visa through sponsorship.
Vietnam
Vietnam is popularly known for its beautiful landscapes and its lovely culture. The country is very friendly and boasts of vibrant cuisines that constantly lure visitors into the country every year. Vietnam is a very beautiful place to live as an expat, it boasts of a great work-life balance and interesting views.
It is very easy to live comfortably easy on a tight budget in Vietnam. Although, the wages are quite low depending on your profession. The living cost is very low as well.
Vietnam work visa process
As a developing country, Vietnam can be easy for foreigners to find work with NGOs and in fields related to international development. Freelancers also tend to flock to Vietnam, at least temporarily as the long-stay “business” visas can be difficult to renew. The easiest way to work in Vietnam is as an English teacher. Visas should be arranged before arrival in Vietnam, even if some companies claim to offer visas on arrival.
New Zealand
90% of people that travel to New Zealand express full satisfaction, making them one of the happiest countries in the world. The culture and work-life balance of the country is second to none. It is quite difficult to secure a full-time job in New Zealand, but that shouldn’t deter you from going to the country.
The country is well known for its natural beauty, friendliness, and outdoor lifestyle. It is a perfect spot for adventure seekers.
New Zealand work visa process
New Zealand has several agreements with countries all over the world that allow foreigners to enter on a “working holiday” visa for up to 12 months, and 23 months if you are a citizen of the UK or Canada. This is the easiest way to initially obtain a working visa in New Zealand.
Australia
Australia is famous for its excellent quality of life, standards of living, and overall happiness. The country has the third-highest Human Development Index (HDI) in the world. There is a great work-life balance and it is not hard to enjoy your time outside the office in such a beautiful country. Although the cost of living is quite high in the country, foreigners can still live comfortably thanks to the relatively high minimum wage (about $14).
The Australian cities Sydney and Melbourne are known for their multicultural population and are home to a multitude of foreigners in Australia.
Australia visa processes
Obtaining a visa to work in Australia is similar to that of New Zealand. Australia also has a "working holiday" visa that allows foreigners of certain nationalities to enter the country for about a year. Also, there are working visas available for international workers that pass a skills assessment similar to that of New Zealand.
Ecuador
Ecuador is a genuinely pleasant place to live. It has truly amazing features with the Andes, coast, and Amazon rainforest. Because of the diversity of habitats, the weather is varied throughout the country, however, it is generally pleasant weather throughout the year.
Life in Ecuador is relaxed and quite inexpensive, as you would expect in any Latin American country. Living in Ecuador is quite different than what most people may be used to. The country has quality healthcare and a stable economy.
Ecuador work visa process
Ecuador is one of the easiest Latin American countries to obtain a residency or working visa. It is ideal for freelancers as the "professional" visa has few requirements to fulfill.
Jobs can be quite difficult to come by if you do not have any Spanish language experience. There are works available for foreigners in international businesses, NGOs, and tourism. Some works are available for English teachers as well. If you have a job lined up the working visa is easy to apply for.
Regardless of where you decide to work abroad, it will be a lot easier if you back it up with some special skills or higher education in order to obtain permission to live and work in a foreign country. You are free to explore other countries and see what opportunities await you there. Share your thoughts with us on the comment box below.
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