The Top 5 Easy and Simple Countries to Work Abroad
A perfect way to learn about the world, yourself and what it means to be a world citizen is to travel and work abroad. People are searching for jobs outside their home countries as the globe becomes more interconnected, but when choosing where to go abroad, it can be hard to know where to start.
We've compiled a list of the five best countries for working overseas to make your life simpler. When creating this list, we considered many things: the cost of living, the ease of securing a work visa, and the employment opportunities in the region. Read on to find out why we chose each of these countries and why you should work abroad in these countries.
1. Germany
Germany is a country that is very modern and structured, making it a perfect place for working abroad. It is rich in music, tradition and an unbeatable harmony between work and life.. People in Germany work less (about 27 hours a week) and therefore live better! Excellent health care, generous paid leave and unforgettable experiences await you in Germany. The cost of living can be higher than you are used to, but living in Germany can be cheaper than in many other European cities.
Each city has something different to offer, making it perfect for any expat. The larger cities remain the most popular among expats, with Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt with the largest expat communities. Wherever you end up, you will taste the eclectic charm that characterizes this innovative European country.
German work visa process
Applying for a work visa can be on the more difficult side – you can blame the German love of bureaucracy – but there are ways to get a permit to work and live in Germany relatively easily. If you are a freelancer, Germany offers an “artist visa” that grants self-employment
Nationals of most Western countries can apply for a ‘job seeker’ visa that allows you to arrange a job in the country and then apply for a work visa after entering into an employment contract. Expats can find jobs with the multitude of international companies in Germany. If you are a native speaker, it may also be easier to find work.
2. South Korea
If you’ve done some research, you may have noticed that Korea tends to surpass the top of many of these rankings, and rightly so. I may be a little biased because I currently live in South Korea, but this is easily one of the best countries to work abroad. There are all kinds of jobs available for foreign workers, especially those who speak fluent English. The government invests a lot in English education, so if you are interested in working as a teacher, Korea is definitely a good option for you! Foreigners working as English teachers can save a fair amount due to the benefits and low cost of living in Korea (over $ 13,000!).
Korea can be a difficult place to live if you’re not prepared for cultural adjustments, especially when it comes to work culture. Ranking and hierarchy mean everything, but most companies treat foreigners a bit more favorably because they understand the cultural differences. However, be prepared to work longer than you are used to – Korea has the longest working hours of all developed countries!
Despite the long working week, Korea has a lot to offer. From the bustling metropolis of Seoul to the breathtaking natural beauty of the Korean interior, there is something for everyone. Seoul, Busan and Daegu have large expat communities, a rich nightlife and, above all, delicious food. Living and working in Korea is definitely an experience of a lifetime for any international worker.
Work visa process in South Korea
Obtaining a work visa in Korea is relatively easy. By far the fastest and easiest way to get a work visa in Korea is to become a teacher under Korea’s ‘E-2’ visa.
If teaching is not your thing, South Korea has agreements with a number of Western countries that allow employees to apply for a “working vacation” visa for one year. There is also a “job seeker” visa that allows foreigners to live in Korea for up to six months while looking for a job.
3. Czech Republic
Home to more than 500,000 foreigners, the Czech Republic (Czech Republic) is another strong competitor from Europe. Located in the heart of Central Europe, it is a hub for many international companies in the region, creating many opportunities for foreign workers. It also makes it incredibly easy to travel all over Europe. But if you choose to go to the Czech Republic, you don’t want to spend a lot of time traveling – there is an abundance of beauty there.
Most expats live in Prague, the capital or Brno. However, more jobs are available for foreigners in and around Prague. The city itself has something for every type of expat, it is home to weird but undeniably cool bars and music venues, rich food and stunning architecture. Prague is one of the most charming cities in Europe – and having lived there myself, I can guarantee you will enjoy it too.
4. The Netherlands
Constantly ranked high among expats due to working conditions and work-life balance, the Netherlands is another great option for working abroad. The Netherlands is actively looking for foreign entrepreneurs and has many great programs to help them invest in local companies or start their own businesses, large and small.
The quality of life in the Netherlands is higher than in most other countries on this list. The land is clean, efficient and the people are directly involved. Cycling, canals, endless entertainment and festivals, and a relaxed way of life will please almost all expats.
Visa process for the Netherlands
It can be challenging to get a work visa in the Netherlands, but if you feel like it, the rewards outweigh the effort. The Netherlands has many programs to help foreigners enter and work in the country. With the “start-up” visa, foreign investors can stay in the Netherlands for a year to develop a new innovative business idea. The government also offers you the help of a local mentor to help grow your business. The Netherlands also encourages small businesses through the “self-employed” visa.
Many jobs are available to international workers in the IT, finance and engineering fields. It is important to note that the majority of expats in the Netherlands have at least a master’s degree, which greatly increases your employ ability.
5. Cambodia
Cambodia is one of the easiest countries to obtain a long-term work visa. Many expats come to this Southeast Asian country because of the incredibly low cost of living, deep culture and tropical weather. Cambodia may lack some of the comfort many Westerners are used to, but it makes up for it many times over with its laid-back culture and out-of-the-ordinary cuisine.
International workers can expect jobs from NGOs, international companies or as English teachers. Cambodia is also a popular destination for freelancers looking to work abroad.
Visa process for Cambodia
You need to apply for a work permit on arrival in order to work lawfully in Cambodia. Even if it is important to remember that the nation has been very relaxed with these permits in the past. Most foreigners obtain a residence visa by applying for a “long term” business visa, which can be extended indefinitely at this time.