12 things you must do when planning to work abroad

Not only working abroad can be a great experience, but it can also open doors for new opportunities around the world.

If you have the opportunity to go work abroad, there is no doubt you will improve your language skills and cross-cultural competencies.

However, there are certain things to consider, facts to research, and questions to ask. Here are 12 things you should do.

1. Learn all about visas and work permits

Finding out what papers you’ll need to be able to legally work in another country is the first step.

You’ll also need to know how long you can stay with said documents – are they connected to employment or can you stay there for a certain amount of time, no matter what? Find out which are the conditions for serbian work permit and what you need to do to get these papers.

2. Research the cost of living

You might not know exactly how much money you will make each month, but you need to know what the industry average is and how it compares to the cost of living.

Find out how much money you will have left once all the monthly costs (rent, bills, taxes, etc.) are paid.

3. Finding a job and a place to live

Research how easy it will be to find a job and a place to live in a specific city.

Check how people commute and how that factors into your budget and expectations.

4. Consider how much time off you will have

When you move abroad you will probably want to explore a new culture – and you will need time to do that.

Find out how much vacation time (and sick days) you’ll get, as this can vary greatly between countries. Make sure that you will have time (and money) to explore and visit your family back home every now and then.

5. Start building a network

Having a network in another country is crucial. Social media can help you find and connect with people in your industry, ask for help or advice.

Join groups or forums, and talk to expats and locals.

6. Learn about your country and its culture

Living in another country won’t save you from bills, taxes, and delayed buses.

Visit the future home before you move and really ask yourself if you could live there. This is also a good time to meet with possible employers, look at neighborhoods, and talk to locals about the current job market and living arrangements.

7. Get the hang of how locals find jobs

Different cultures have different approaches to finding a job – some like a more formal approach with lots of paperwork while others prefer face-to-face interaction.

Research how the locals find their jobs and figure out if you will be able to find something on your own

8. How to write CVs and cover letters

Learn all about the layout, content, and formalities of writing a CV and cover letter for your country and industry.

Make sure you know how many personal details you’ll need to share and what documents/references you’ll need to include.

9. Read about possible diplomas & certifications

Depending on your education, skills, and work experience, your new home country might ask for an additional (language) diploma or certificate.

Research the job requirements and learn how, where, and when you can get the necessary documents.

10. Some things can be different

When starting a new chapter in your life, make sure that you’re prepared for the possibility of a little bit of culture shock, homesickness, and some “but why”-questions.

See it as a sign that you’re growing, becoming more awesome, and are about to make memories that will last a lifetime.

11. Have a plan B

As a world traveler, you know that it’s always good to have an alternative strategy in case things don’t go according to plan.

It’s good to know how long you can afford to and are allowed to live in the country without having a job. Figure out how much money you want to save up to accumulate an emergency fund for rainy (and stormy) days.

12. Go for it

If not now, when?!