essay about the pros and cons of working abroad

InterNations makes use of JavaScript. Please enable it to have full user experience.

Not a member yet? Join now

Please upgrade your browser now!

You are using Internet Explorer 10 or below. We no longer support this version of your browser.

Visit www.browsehappy.com for an overview of the best free browsers available or contact your IT department to request an update.

• Expat Life Hacks

The Pros and Cons of a Career Abroad

Pro: Experience the Global Marketplace

With ecommerce and international trade playing such a big role in today’s business world, moving to another country can help you join the dots and see the global marketplace from another perspective. If you do decide to move home, you’ll be the “expert” on your destination country, which can help you get noticed at work. You’ll also significantly expand your professional network, making sure that even if you don’t know the answer, you can get in touch with someone that will.

Con: Interrupted Career Progression

“Out of sight, out of mind” can be a phrase that’s all too familiar for expats. Even if you stay with the same company, not being around every day or working in a different time zone can mean that good impressions fade and you’re no longer first in line for promotion. In your destination country, a lack of local experience or limited language skills can mean that you’ll have to take a more junior position, which can feel like a step back professionally.

Pro: Cross-Cultural Communication

Having to navigate the world of work in a different language or even just as part of a different culture will make you a better communicator. Instead of rapidly typing an email or responding in a meeting, working abroad refines that brain-mouth filter by making you more aware of the different ways an email or conversation could be interpreted. Wherever you end up working, great communication skills will be an asset.

Con: Office Politics in a Second Language

Getting along with colleagues is important for a productive work environment. But cultural nuances and ways of communicating in the workplace can vary dramatically between countries; while in some countries, like Germany and Finland, direct communication is valued, others, like China, put the concept of maintaining “face” at the heart of business transactions. Navigating these cultural differences — potentially in another language — can make a day at the office pretty stressful.

Pro: Diversify Your Income

At a time when it’s hard to predict what’s coming next politically, having income in a different currency can be a good way to spread risk and secure your financial future. For example, there’s been 30% more variation in the Pound’s value compared to the value of the Euro over the past two years. If you’re particularly concerned about the economy back home, moving can also be a way to unlock better job opportunities and salaries in a more stable economic environment.

Con: Hidden Costs of Living Abroad

From buying your plane ticket to getting your possessions to your new home, everyone knows that the move itself is expensive. But the costs don’t stop once you arrive. Whether it's figuring out foreign tax systems (or paying for help to do so) or contributing to different models of medical care and social security, moving abroad is a significant — and ongoing — investment. Even if you’re moving somewhere with lower living costs, budget for the unexpected.

Pro: Experience Different Ways of Doing Business

Studying a particular discipline then working in that field in the same country means you have a fairly fixed set of assumptions and expectations. Seeing how a different country approaches your sector and business in general can be a great way to open up your mind to new ways of doing things. The best part? You’ll take those learnings with you wherever you go.

Con: Feeling Transient  

Even if you’re adamant you’re staying for good, employers tend to assume that expats won’t stick around, often giving you a limited-term contract. While this offers a certain amount of flexibility, it can make your stay abroad feel quite transient, and a particularly short contract can cast a shadow over your time abroad by making you worry about finding work.

Pro: See the World

If you’ve got the travel bug, there’s nothing better than working abroad. Not only do you get to experience the country at a much deeper level, you get paid to do so! Rather than passing through for two weeks, you actually get to know a country’s personality and culture firsthand; it can also be a good opportunity to explore neighboring countries. If you’re learning a language, immersing yourself in the country can also be a great way to quickly improve your skills.

Con: Less Job Flexibility

Love your new country but hate your job? Unlike back home where you can shop around if a role isn’t for you, working abroad may mean your job and visa are linked: quitting might mean heading home. Even if you’re not restricted by a visa, language skills or a lack of local experience may also mean that your escape options are limited.

About Ro Mottershead

Ro worked in the Content & Communications Department at InterNations. Determined to escape the rainy UK from a young age, she’s spent the past six years living, working, and writing her way around the world.

Article Topics

Related articles.

Moving with children? Take time to choose the right school!

Top Digital Tools for Expats

Discover the Top 5 Countries for Adventurous Expats

Embracing Local Living: How You Can Quickly Feel at Home in a New Country

Top 10 Tips for Staying Healthy While Abroad

Expat Guides around the World

Moving to Moscow

Moving to Argentina

Living in Cairo

Moving to India

Moving to Italy

Ready to join.

Going To Work Abroad Advantages And Disadvantages

Working abroad essay.

Nowadays we are driving cars from South Korea, wearing clothing designed in the U.S. and manufactured in Taiwan. Today firms have not all their facilities, such as: research, development, production, distribution, and so on – in one country. The reason for this is the growing globalization. Consequently, employees have to be mobile, have to admit working overseas. This essay will discuss about the advantages and disadvantages of those employees who work abroad.

Disadvantages of working abroad

The disadvantages are numerous.

For example, there are countries where you are not allowed to drink alcohol, to walk hand-in-hand with your wife or girlfriend or even to eat meat from a pork or a cow, such as Iran, Iraq, and so on.

Another disadvantage is the clothing. In most Islamic countries, people have to cover their arms and legs, so shorts and T-shirt for men or tops and hot pants for women can cause offence.

If you are not aware of the local religious circumstances, you can make big mistakes and get into big trouble.

If you are travelling on your own to a foreign country to find a job, you can run out of funds that can force you to return home. If you are not finding immediately new friends, crisis can even seem more severe, than at home with the help of friends or family.

Writing Essay Advantages And Disadvantages

Other disadvantages include getting used to bureaucracy. The financial circumstances are also very important: maybe you have to pay higher taxes or you need a special health care insurance.

Proficient in: Privacy

“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”

In some countries, the weather could be even worse than in Vietnam. In other countries you are not allowed to go out in dusk because of unsafe political-circumstances, racism or terrorism.

Some other facts that depend on the country and personality of a person who works abroad are the different life conditions, the different social behaviors, and the different working times, for example, in Dubai, it is common to work from 8 am to 1 pm, and 4 pm to 8 pm with an afternoon “siesta” break and the standard working week is from Saturday to Wednesday with a Thursday and Friday weekend.

Advantages of working abroad

On the other hand, there are advantages to work abroad. Working abroad can improve one’s language skills, which can come in handy if you apply for a job later, as well as gaining business experience in different countries. To sum these 2 points up: it is a positive item in the CV and you can gain credits in comparison to applicants who have not worked abroad. Moreover, you meet many different and interesting people, which can give you new opinions or even support you to do business or climbing up the social- and business-ladder.

Another positive argument for working abroad is that you can work where other people spend their holidays, if you are working in a “holiday country”. For example, in the Middle East where becomes rapidly one of the most popular holiday destinations, not only because of the leisure activities like golf, water sports and horse riding, but also the temperature makes it possible to enjoy year round sunshine or the shopping facilities.

Several firms offer their staff attractive fringe benefits for working away from home. For example, they offer two-way flights each year for their employees or include extracurricular activities at the host country to integrate the “new” employees from abroad. This brings me to my next advantage: you have to integrate into another multicultural society. This touches every point of daily life, such as: history, language, traditions, religion, arts and food.

In conclusion, as the world becomes a global village, it is really no surprise that working abroad is becoming an increasingly attractive option. It brings advantages and disadvantages. Thus, according to each circumstance, everyone has to decide for his/her own if he or she wants to work abroad.

Cite this page

Going To Work Abroad Advantages And Disadvantages. (2019, Dec 05). Retrieved from https://paperap.com/paper-on-essay-advantages-disadvantages-working-abroad/

"Going To Work Abroad Advantages And Disadvantages." PaperAp.com , 5 Dec 2019, https://paperap.com/paper-on-essay-advantages-disadvantages-working-abroad/

PaperAp.com. (2019). Going To Work Abroad Advantages And Disadvantages . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-essay-advantages-disadvantages-working-abroad/ [Accessed: 11 Apr. 2024]

"Going To Work Abroad Advantages And Disadvantages." PaperAp.com, Dec 05, 2019. Accessed April 11, 2024. https://paperap.com/paper-on-essay-advantages-disadvantages-working-abroad/

"Going To Work Abroad Advantages And Disadvantages," PaperAp.com , 05-Dec-2019. [Online]. Available: https://paperap.com/paper-on-essay-advantages-disadvantages-working-abroad/. [Accessed: 11-Apr-2024]

PaperAp.com. (2019). Going To Work Abroad Advantages And Disadvantages . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-essay-advantages-disadvantages-working-abroad/ [Accessed: 11-Apr-2024]

• Advantages Disadvantages Study Abroad Pages: 5 (1325 words)
• Advantages And Disadvantages Of Work Life Balance Social Work Essay Pages: 9 (2636 words)
• Advantages of Studying Economics Abroad Pages: 3 (602 words)
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Written and Unwritten Constitutions Pages: 12 (3307 words)
• Essay On Nuclear Energy And Advantages And Disadvantages Pages: 3 (678 words)
• Advantages And Disadvantages Of Science And Technology Pages: 3 (764 words)
• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Governments Providing Free Health Care Pages: 3 (877 words)
• Advantages And Disadvantages Of The Impacts Of Tourism Tourism Essay Pages: 3 (853 words)
• What are Advantages and Disadvantages of Doing Business on the Internet Pages: 10 (2942 words)
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Direct Selling Pages: 8 (2119 words)

Advantages and Disadvantages of Working Abroad

Sharing is caring!

To go abroad is a dream whether you study abroad or live abroad. However, to get a job abroad is another story and a bit more complicated. No one said transplanting your life and career to another country would be easy. But there are advantages and disadvantages of working abroad to know before you commit.

Some are easier than others to adapt to, but not impossible. And remember the benefits and challenges of working overseas vary based on where you live and your career path. 

Working for an organization abroad, being a digital nomad, having a remote job, or other opportunities differ. But there are positive and negative sides regardless. The list below outlines them. Stay tuned after the pros and cons of working abroad for tips on how to find jobs abroad too!

Table of Contents

What are the advantages of working abroad?

Attain foreign language skills

One of the most obvious benefits of working abroad is learning a new language. The world treats English as the universal language, and there are others to know. If you want to work in a country long-term, learning the language is necessary. It is a valuable skill to have working or traveling abroad too.

Verbal communication is not the only way to communicate either. Depending on where you work, you may encounter a country’s version of sign language. Be open to new language opportunities when you go abroad.

Enhance intercultural communication

Speaking of language learning, intercultural communication is another positive side of working abroad. Working in a multilingual environment often means working in a multicultural environment too. Through those meetings, work retreats, emails, etc., you will be communicating with people of differing backgrounds. 

All of those interactions will help you better understand how to communicate with people. The practices you may use in the workplace at home need to be adapted. Most of the time, you learn from your colleagues and pick up a few new strategies too. Your intercultural communication competence increases and is a transferable skill to any work after that.  

Better standard of living

Very rarely do people choose destinations to work abroad they do not like – at least not initially. Thus, one of the advantages of working abroad is picking where you want to live. To work abroad means to choose a country that offers a standard of living that is better for you. “Better” can include a more walkable city, access to healthcare, cheaper cost of living, etc. You decide!

Connect with people of different backgrounds

Though it can be nerve-wracking to make new friends when you do, it is worth it. You get exposed to new people, cultures, and a new meaning of “home” and “family.” With a strong community, the disadvantages of working abroad do not seem so bad. The people you meet are one of the advantages of living abroad . Be bold and connect with others. It only adds to the working abroad experience.

A deeper understanding of travel privilege

The more you travel, the more you learn about the world. Advantages of working abroad also include understanding your privilege and not taking the experience for granted. Not everyone has the means, opportunity, and travel privilege to work abroad. Processing how your citizenship, nationality, language abilities, etc., affect your experiences is natural. It also helps you work better with others and have a deeper perspective of your environment.

Increase self-confidence

Working and living abroad is already an accomplishment. It shows passion, ambition, and an admirable need for adventure. And it takes a lot of confidence! But when you work abroad, navigating cultural differences in the workplace, or opening a bank account in another language, you feel triumphant. 

Though when you land, you may be confused and uneasy. Over time that fades as you adjust. Those feelings of “why the heck did I do this” become distant memories as you feel more comfortable in your new home. By understanding the benefits and challenges of working overseas, you also overcome them. Those feelings of achievement add to the positive side of working abroad. 

More travel opportunities

Chances are, if you love to travel , working abroad seems like an ideal situation. The prospect of traveling on the weekends, or even during the week, is a huge advantage of working abroad. In addition, it makes it easier to plan travel when the places you want to visit are a short flight or train ride away. Bucket list here you come!

Just do not get too caught up in it. Remember that you are abroad to work. Though the travel is good, your work visa or sponsorship relies on you doing work to stay. So travel and see the world, but do not neglect your responsibilities. Getting fired while working abroad does not sound fun. 

Experience new holidays and traditions

Living abroad to work means being in a country long-term. As you work and live, you celebrate like the locals too. Even though there is a thin line between cultural appropriation vs. appreciation , participating in holiday celebrations is a part of cultural immersion. Working abroad allows us to (respectfully) observe our host country’s holidays and traditions we would not be exposed to otherwise. 

What are the disadvantages of working abroad?

Navigating cultural differences is hard

Knowing there are cultural differences is a no-brainer when you decide to move abroad. Whether you are working or dating abroad , it is a given. But, unfortunately, cultural differences are one of the disadvantages of working abroad because, as significant as learning cultural practices different from yours, it can be a struggle. 

Despite reading about the country before you go, you will still fumble. Assimilating and adapting requires time and commitment. You will not get everything right. There are days you won’t want to learn. We all have our bad days! Stick with it.

Doing taxes abroad can be confusing

Taxes are not necessarily a negative side of working abroad. Yet, it is annoying and complicated. Each country has its own rules about who pays what and to whom. In some cases, you are taxed higher, and working abroad is not as fruitful as it seems. Speaking with a financial advisor may be beneficial before you leave. They can guide you and answer any of your burning questions. My Expat Taxes is another online resource too.

Working abroad can be expensive upfront

Moving is not cheap, especially when you move abroad! You may have to renew your passport or pay for a visa, which also includes transportation to and from the consulate. If you do not downsize, you need to pay for long-term storage. And you still have to buy flights and temporary housing accommodations until you find something permanent.

To curb some of these costs, minimize your spending once you decide to work abroad. Save as much as you can to prepare. Some future expats even take up extra jobs, but that depends on your responsibilities and money needs. It balances out and possibly decreases in the end, though that can take time.

Language-learning is difficult

Learning a new language is enticing and impressive. However, it is also frustrating and difficult. Many people intentionally move abroad to a country where they do not speak the language to force themselves to learn it. Others make it easier and pick a destination where they know the language. There is no right or wrong way, just your preference. 

So as far as disadvantages of working abroad, this one you can overcome in due time. It requires a lot of dedication and continuous practice inside and outside your language school. Pro tip: observe the street signs, labels at the grocery store to learn new words. You just have to stick with it and be ready to make mistakes – it is one of the best ways to learn!

Feelings of loneliness and instability

Homesickness abroad is a real thing and one of the disadvantages of working abroad. I’ve been there – it’s not fun. It is linked to the adjustment phase and overcoming culture shock.  In the beginning, when you are building that community, it can be lonely. And living in multiple Airbnbs can cause some instability as another negative side of working abroad.  

Once the excitement of going abroad diminishes, loneliness can creep inside you. And with loneliness comes fear and a hint of overwhelming sadness for the life you left behind. However, it does not last forever! You eventually adjust, find people (and housing), and become more flexible working abroad.

Dealing with culture shock

People who work abroad may hate to admit it, but culture shock happens to the best of us. Even when you feel adjusted, culture shock can appear. Examples of culture shock vary too. Some examples include adapting to new work hours or learning a different concept of work-life balance. Not understanding what goes on if you do not know the language can feel isolating. It can sneak up on you when you least expect it. Yet, it doesn’t stick around for long. 

Finding a job that aligns with your values

Workplace culture can be hit or miss at home or abroad. Adjusting to living in a new country means adapting to the work culture too. Sometimes that is a price you pay to work abroad as quickly or easily as possible. This scenario can happen if you work abroad in a destination you end up not liking. On the other hand, you learn a lot about a country’s values when you work and live abroad instead of being a tourist. 

Tips on finding jobs abroad

Consider a fellowship program

International fellowships are unique opportunities to work abroad. Unlike regular, full-time positions, these are fixed-term opportunities. Most fellowship grantees are on a contract that includes some benefits, such as relocation, above-average stipend housing, and more. Fellowships abroad can last at least one year, but they could be longer depending on the opportunity.

International fellowship programs are worth the application process if you are transitioning between college and the 9 to 5 life. Since you are on a specific contract, it has a definite beginning, middle, and end with no pressure to re-apply. However, it does require you to come up with a plan post-fellowship.  If you want to stay in that country after the fellowship is over, begin seeking opportunities midway through.

Research visa sponsorships

Ahhh, the coveted visa sponsorships. These are opportunities for foreigners to work abroad with an employer legally. Lucky for you, Google is your best friend. First, input “visas sponsorships list” with the respective country’s name to find which employers can help you. Then, scroll through each sponsor to choose which ones align with the work you do. 

Scale up your side hustle

If you are not finding an established opportunity to do what you want, make it yourself. Sometimes your “formal” or ‘traditional” career experiences are not the most fruitful. Getting a job abroad can take a little creativity, and a side hustle can be that outlet. You can attain so many transferable skills in a side hustle that your regular job may not provide. Plus, there is an admirable level of drive and discipline when a person creates a side hustle. 

Become a freelancer

Based on your skillset and working personality, you can also work as a freelancer. Resources such as Upwork and Fiverr are two of the most popular websites to find freelance work. If you are an aspiring travel writer/freelancer, check out Matador Creators or the “Careers” section of your favorite travel publication. Become a virtual assistant for an entrepreneur or content creator. The freelance world is a hustle, but there are opportunities to get more freedom than you have now.

Attend job fairs

Some international companies host job fairs or webinars to connect with future employees. Using LinkedIn you can connect with employers to find out if these job fairs exist. For those who want to work in education abroad, as a teacher or otherwise, Search Associates may work for you. They have virtual and in-person opportunities to meet with employers.

Get a Master’s degree abroad

Becoming a student can lead to a long-term stay abroad if you plan it right. Pursuing a Master’s or even a Bachelor’s degree is an easier way to find a job abroad. Going to school can then lead to working abroad. Many countries have 1-2 year visas for postgraduate students to find a job. 

There are resources such as Masters Portal and GoAbroad that have more details too. So the opportunities are out there! Another resource is Vanessa of  Wander Onwards , who got her degree abroad and has been abroad ever since! She is a fountain of knowledge, tips, and resources from someone who has done it.  

Seek out government employment

Government jobs are another way to work abroad. Depending on your nationality and citizenship, you can work for an embassy abroad or another public service sector. Some teaching English abroad programs are even sponsored by government agencies. Those could be great pathways to a more government job. 

Some websites to use are Impact Pool , UN Volunteers , and for U.S. citizens USA Jobs . You can also check the country you want to work in for international positions. Those jobs are on their respective websites. 

Try an internship abroad

If you like the idea of fellowships abroad but want a shorter length of time, consider internships instead. Internships abroad are similar to fellowships. However, they have a higher probability of being unpaid and do not include health insurance. Each internship is different and varies upon your career path/sector. 

Internships abroad are great for students or early-career professionals who want to get some work experience. For students, who normally have a summer off, check with your school for scholarships. But, again, the biggest downside is that many are unpaid (though that is changing). So if money is an obstacle for you, pursue a longer fellowship with more benefits. 

Find a remote job

Remote work is becoming more and more popular! With websites like FlexJobs and entrepreneurs such as Andrea of It’s a Travel OD , you can find remote work opportunities just about anywhere. Remote work is a nice way to work abroad because you can also be location-independent. Co-working spaces are popping up everywhere too. So if you want to be a digital nomad, this pathway is ideal for you.

And if you think some of those cons of working abroad will not arise, think twice. Just because you are virtual does not mean cultural differences do not affect you. Or that culture shock will not impact your transition. Remote work still requires a bit of an adjustment working from a laptop all day. Get blue light glasses, a comfy chair, a desk, and lots of natural light to enhance productivity.

Check out seasonal work

Did you know seasonal work visas exist too? These are temporary work opportunities for people to work in agriculture, hospitality, and tourism. Even without the visa, many people work in hostels (especially if you can speak multiple languages) or become tour guides. Opportunities vary based on the country and their needs!

How to decide if you should work abroad or not

This list outlined a few of the advantages and disadvantages of working abroad. But there is still so much research to do! In the end, you have to weigh the pros and cons of working abroad to understand if it is the right decision for you. Some people decide to make a pros and cons list to make their final choice. 

However, I will say that ambition, patience, flexibility, and adaptability are a few of the soft skills you will need to work abroad. There are benefits and challenges of working overseas where you will need these skills. And while hard skills to land a government or remote job are necessary, I would argue soft skills are more important. Those are the ones you need regardless.

Final thoughts on the pros and cons of working abroad

Working abroad is not for the easily frazzled. To do it, you need a lot of self-determination not to give up when it gets tough. If this list excites you, then consider working abroad in the future. If you are still hesitant, keep digging. The spark to go for it is there, so do not hold yourself back! The fact you read this far shows you are for a big change. Do not let fear, or the advantages and disadvantages of working abroad, get the best of you. It may be the best thing you ever do. 

Looking for opportunities to work abroad? Check out these overseas fellowships !

Like this post? PIN it on Pinterest for later!

Sojourner White is a remote social worker, train travel queen, and award-winning travel journalist. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin she has been a digital nomad and called both Spain and Germany home. Through her platform Sojournies, she helps 9-5ers fulfill their career goals and bucket list dreams to find freedom and flexibility outside the office. Sojourner has been featured in Buzzfeed, PopSugar, The Matador Network, HuffPost, and Thrillist and written for Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Fodor’s, Insider, Lonely Planet, Viator, and more.

26 Helpful Study Abroad Tips You Need to Thrive

How to convince your parents to study abroad, you may also like, perurail luxury train from cusco to lake titicaca, black solo female travel guide: peru, solo train travel guide: a holiday day trip to portland, maine, black solo female travel guide: colombia, black travel groups to join and inspire you to travel, black women it’s time to travel solo, black hair abroad tips and a packing list for travelers, is solo travel boring how to make solo travel fun and safe, is solo travel worth it my experience as a black woman, 25+ solo travel safety tips for women, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The advantages and disadvantages of working abroad

Some links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase something through my links I may make a small commission at no extra charge to you. See my disclaimer .

What are the advantages and disadvantages of working abroad?

When you’re between the ages of 18 – 30 working abroad is extremely easy. British citizens have access to working holiday visas in 8 countries. This gives you a great opportunity to see the world.

Check out: What is a working holiday & Working Holidays for British citizens!

There are plenty of reasons a person might get a job in another country but are they positive or negative? I want to give you as much information as possible. That way, you’re in the best position to decide if working abroad is for you.

After living and working abroad since 2015, I have experience. I want to share the pros and cons I have encountered both personally and professionally.

Let’s take a look at the advantages of working abroad first, then we will check out the disadvantages (if you’re not already convinced by then!)

Don’t forget to get travel insurance to cover you if something bad happens. One company I have personal experience with is Safety Wing . Not everyone needs the same coverage, so make sure you get a personalised quote that suits you and your trip plans.

The best way to stay connected throughout your travels and overseas job hunt is by having a SIM that allows data usage. Airalo eSIMS allow you to download SIMS directly to your device.

Advantages & pros

Easier to learn a language

This of course depends on if you are travelling to a place with a different national language in the first place. However, One of the easiest ways to learn a new language is to be thrown in at the deep end.

When you are surrounded by people on a daily basis speaking a new language it becomes easier to learn. You’ll start recognising phrases and words. It’ll become part of your daily routine.

When you have no choice but to learn to get by, you’ll be surprised how quickly you become fluent. This is a great help if you’ve been wanting to learn a language in particular. It’s also much less aggressive than the DuoLingo owl.

Sometimes you can earn more

Let’s face it, we go to work to earn money. This completely depends on where you plan on moving to. Different countries have different living standards and salary amounts. Australia (a common working holiday destination) is known for having high wages. This makes it easy for many people to save significant amounts.

When you live somewhere that allows you to have more money in your pocket, it helps you afford things you might not have been able to before. This leads to better saving opportunities and experiences for you to enjoy.

If you need to transfer money between countries and check the exchange rates, I personally recommend Wise and have been using them since 2015. They have competitive rates, an easy-to-use app and make handling foreign currencies simple.

Check out these other posts about living overseas:

• Moving to Canada from the UK: How to get set up
• Gap year advantages: 12 reasons why you should go
• Honest disadvantages of a gap year

How to handle moving back home after living abroad

Gain skills from other places

There will never be a bad time to improve your skillset and better yourself. What’s great about working in a new place is that no matter where you go, someone will do things slightly differently from what you may be used to.

This can give you skills you never knew you needed and can benefit you going forward. What if you have a task that needs to be completed but you face some difficulties? By having alternate solutions can really come in handy.

Learn to interact with different nationalities

This can make it much easier to understand strong accents and differemt cultures if you’re associating with new people regularly. This can help you to understand tone and phrases that have a totally different meaning to you at home.

Some people forget that we are all the same after all. Think of Humans as crisps or chips. We are all made the same, we’re just in different flavours.

By understanding people from a different background better, you can easily prevent workplace disagreements and misunderstandings. But don’t assume this is only beneficial in the work place. Understanding other nations can help make you a better person too.

You become more independent

You’ve left your home town to start a (temporary) life abroad and you’ve done it all on your own! By successfully heading overseas and landing a job abroad you prove to yourself that you’re more independent than you realised.

There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you made it all happen without needing to rely on others. You got this!

Better inner-confidence

Similar to our last point, once you have made the leap to move overseas and get a job you applied for, you’re going to feel so confident. You might not have learned how independent you are had you not taken the risk.

Having that inner confidence and knowing how capable you really are can feel great. Besides, most people need a good boost of self confidence once in a while and this is one sure fire way to get it.

Your professional network grows

In the working world the saying “it’s not what you know but who you know” is widely spoken. When you work overseas you naturally start creating a foreign network of colleagues and associates within your working circle as time goes on.

By having your eggs in multiple baskets you can potentially leave yourself open to future job opportunities around the world (visa dependent of course). One popular way for people to keep track of their professional circle is the social network site LinkedIn which has an interface similar to Facebook.

Can make you seem more experienced

If you had to hire someone and your choices were two people with the same number of years experience behind them, but one had experience in 3 countries and the other just one city. Who would be more desirable? The one with the world experience of course!

As an employer, you’d want to choose the person that might be able to offer new solutions to a problem that your current country may not have thought of. 

Opens your mind to other cultures

When you never meet people different to yourself and are only surrounded by people the same as you, you can become closed-minded. When you allow yourself to be around people with different customs, cultures and way of life you open your mind to new people.

That in turn can make you more personable and a better employee. By being able to speak to many different people professionally you are easier to work with. This can really come in handy when you’re ready to make friends in a new city too.

Shows you are adaptable

If you can move alone to a new country and still do well at a job in a new work place, it shows employers you are adaptable. This is a great trait to have and it allows employers to see how well you adjust to change.

People who can’t handle well change often don’t last well in high pressure work environments which can damage their career.

Some disadvantages to working abroad are feeling like you can’t fit into the new work environment, so making sure you adapt and try to excel in a new place looks great to employers which is why this is part of our advantages list!

Could have better work/life balance

Of course, this completely depends on the country you are moving to and where you are coming from. I found that my work-life balance was greatly improved when i moved to Canada from the UK and both work positions had been in sales.

However, when working in customer service my job in New Zealand had a better balance compared to that in Canada. So it’s all relative to the job, industry and location but you might find yourself with more free time after your shift ends compared to what you’re used to.

Shows you can work in diverse environments

Adapting to a new country isn’t for everybody so when you can do it, it really is a bonus.

You might be having to adjust to a drastically different temperature to back home (average winter temperature in Toronto was -28c with windchill) and having to commute in that everyday when you’re from mild, wet England seems like the worst idea ever.

When you put yourself into a new environment (whether surrounded by different landscapes or people) you’re giving yourself an opportunity to grow and improve your world experience which helps in the workplace.

You can explore a new place

Technically you could have just applied for a new job 20 minutes from your last role. But you chose to go to the other side of the world! When you travel you get to see a new place and part of the fun is exploring that new destination.

Taking part in a working holiday visa lets you legally work in that country so that you can afford to continue travelling that same country. When you spend more than a typical one week holiday in a place you pretty much become a local. And locals know the better places to go in comparison to tourists. 

So hopefully you are convinced and getting eager to start your trip. The advantages should outweigh the disadvantages in order for you to enjoy your working abroad experience. Let’s see the negatives, and I hope they don’t put you off!

Disadvantages & Cons

The language barrier could be overwhelming

Many people in the world are bilingual. Unfortunately, there are so many languages in the world that it’s impossible for one person to know them all.

This means that depending on where you choose to work abroad, there may be times you don’t speak the local language (even if you work in a company that does speak your language). A solution to this could be taking some basic language classes.

If cost is a concern then you can opt to join free language exchanges through facebook groups and local meetups. You can also use language learning apps to help you understand the basics – my go to is DuoLingo .

Might have a gap in your CV/Resume

So in many cases, employers don’t like seeing gaps in employment for future employees. Many people believe this to make a person unreliable but that isn’t always the case.

When you move abroad, unless you are transferring from a company you are already with, there will be no doubt a gap between when you finish your last role and start the next in the new country. Some employers look at gaps as unprofessional however some others see them as gaining new experience.

As long as you can explain where and why you have gaps (and why it can help in the next potential role) you should be able to get around the non-working periods on your resume.

Homesickness can affect work

It’s no secret that moving away from everything you know and love can sometimes overwhelm a person. This can lead to homesickness and it doesn’t discriminate.

When you are feeling low and the homesickness has taken over it can affect everything from your mood to your productivity, which can affect how you do your work. This can mean you’re not performing as well as you might normally if under different circumstances.

When you don’t perform well in a job it can lead to disciplinaries or losing that job in a worst case scenario. then you have to deal with the stress of having no income on the other side of the world. Don’t let it go that far, deal with your homesickness correctly.

Might pay higher or double tax

Another point that completely depends on where you plan on working. You could move to a place that has a double taxation treaty with the UK (basically preventing you from paying tax on the same income twice) or you could end up with exactly the opposite.

Checking the tax rules before moving to the new country can help you upderstand what tax obligations you need to follow and if you will be paying more, less or the same rax as back home and whether you need to pay tax in just one or both countries. 

When you’re able to pay just one amount of tax in your local destination then this is of course grouped with the advantages, but when you need to pay tax twice it’ll be one of the few disadvantages of working abroad. Make sure you do your research so you don’t get in trouble with the authorities.

You may be discriminated against or left out

This can happen at home as much as it could happen abroad but it can feel much more isolating when it happens in a new place. People in this new country might discriminate against you due to your nationality, race, gender, age, physical appearance or religious beliefs.

Some people are mean and have no regard for other people’s feelings. A solution could be to take comments at face value and try not to let them get to you. It won’t happen everywhere and it won’t be every one that feels that way.

When you find good people in the new place, stick with them and keep your distance from the bad eggs.

Often need money to start with

Yes you’re going overseas to look for work. But have you considered the money you will need before you start working? Many people underestimate how much money you need to have in savings before taking the leap and some end up getting stuck when their money runs out.

Things to consider as upfront costs are work visas, flights, long stay travel insurance, accommodation on arrival, living costs until your first paycheck arrives. If it takes you 1 month to find a job you need to make sure you have enough money to live on that entire month plus the time it takes to receives your first paycheck.

If you get paid monthly you may need to wait a whole month after started for the first pay so potentially you’ll need two months worth of savings minimum. 

Temporary visa might limit work opportunities

Depending on the type of visa you are approved for depends on the work options available to you. If you are on a sponsorship-style visa you are often tied to that specific position. This means if your job contract is terminated then your visa often is too.

If you are on a working holiday visa instead, this is a flexible work visa that doesn’t tie you to one job so you can change jobs throughout the visa length.

In New Zealand on a working holiday visa, you can’t accept permanent positions only temp contracts and in Australia you can’t work for the same employer for more than 6 months. These can put a restriction on your work plans if you don’t plan ahead. 

Some employers don’t like people that move around

Similar to having gaps in your CV or resume, some employers are put off my staff that have moved around a lot. This could lead them to think if they hire you, you will leave them too so they might be less inclined to hire you to begin with.

When this happens you might not get interviews, but in the instance where you are hired you need to explain to them how your moving around and gaining new skills from elsewhere can actually help you excel in their business if given the opportunity. 

You have to start fresh

So depending on how you look at it, this could be grouped in with both advantages or disadvantages of working abroad. Especially if you loved your previous work colleagues from home!

You’re moving to a new place where you don’t know anyone. This can seem daunting if it’s your first place moving somewhere new. It might take time to meet people and make a social circle.

You need to focus on making new friends in and out of the workplace as an adult and creating that home away from home. All while getting your career in a new country off the ground. This takes hard work which can put some people off but you’re the only one who can make it happen. 

Final points on advantages and disadvantages of working abroad

Working overseas has many pros and cons but what matters is how to handle those situations. 

Having career experience in more than one country can put you a step ahead of other candidates but it could also lead you to being deemed less professional due to having gaps. 

By being honest and open with potential employers you can turn any negative into a positive by researching their company (and the role you’re applying for) and showing them how your experience working in another country will directly benefit them if you’re hired. 

Remember, if you’re between the ages of 18 and 31 and from the UK (or 18-35 from some other countries) I highly recommend going on a working holiday or two to broaden your life and work experience. 

• Working holiday visas for Brits

Even if you hate it, at least you gave it a fair shot! (But I’m confident you’ll love it)

Can you think of any other advantages or disadvantages of working abroad? Let me know in the comments!

Need help planning your trip?

Check out how to plan a trip abroad & see my travel resources for more. WayAway – Great for booking flights. They even have a cashback feature for those who fly frequently. Skyscanner – A comprehensive comparison website showing where to purchase flights. HostelWorld – The biggest selection of hostels & sociable accommodations. Booking.com – The largest collection of accommodations worldwide. Safety Wing – A travel insurance brand for long-term travellers and nomads. Airalo – An eSIM card company that lets you stay connected during your trip. Wise – Perfect for transferring foreign currencies. iVisa – For applying for tourist and visitor visas. Viator – Great for finding tours and activities worldwide. Get Your Guide – Another company for finding activities. Klook – Have some of the best activity deals in Asia.

Similar Posts

If you’ve been living abroad for a long time it can be daunting moving back home to your home country. Let me help you transition easily.

Are hostels dangerous? Finding safe properties for your gap year

If you’re unfamiliar with hostels it can be hard to know whether they are dangerous or safe. Let me show you how to find a safe one to book.

Honest Disadvantages of a Gap Year

Before leaving for your trip, take a look at the disadvantages of a gap year – it’s better to expect the worst & be prepared.

How to Get set up in Korea as an H1 visa expat

As a new expat in Korea there are a few things you will need to do in order to get set up comfortably. Let me help you with the various steps.

How to apply to work and travel new Zealand

New Zealand is a beautiful country to work and travel for up to 23 months on a working holiday visa. Here we show you how to apply!

Gap year goals: Do you have any?

Most people that go on a gap year have at least some goals in mind. Let’s work out if you do too and see what they are.

One Comment

bookmarked!!, I ⅼove ｙour ԝebsite!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

happy when abroad

your compass to happy adventures

6 pros and cons of working abroad you should know about

Working abroad can be a great opportunity to gain new skills and experience, as well as to see the world. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider before making the decision to take a job overseas. In this article, both the pros and cons of working abroad are explored which will help you decide if it’s the right thing for you.

Table of Contents

6 pros and cons of working abroad

This Guest Post was written by Mark Bingham .

1. Pro: Improving financial prospects

One of the main advantages of working abroad is the financial incentive. Many countries offer a higher salary than what you would earn in your home country, which can be a major draw for many people. In addition, many companies will reimburse your moving expenses and offer other benefits such as housing or transportation allowances. This can make it much easier to afford to move to a new country and start working there.

However, it is important to remember that taxes can be much higher in some countries than they are in others. Be sure to do your research and understand how much you will be paying in taxes before making the decision to work abroad. Also, be aware that the cost of living in some countries can be much higher than it is in your home country, so you may need to adjust your budget accordingly.

2. Con: Adapting to a new environment

When you work abroad, you are typically uprooting your entire life and moving to a new country. This can be difficult, especially if you do not know the language or the culture. It can be difficult to make friends, find a place to live, and get used to the new way of life. In some cases, it can even be hard to find a job in your field.

It is crucial to be prepared for the challenges of adapting to a new environment before you take a job abroad. Make sure that you do your research on the country where you will be working, and try to learn as much about the culture as possible. It may also be helpful to join an online forum or social group for people who are also working abroad in your area. This can provide support and advice when you need it most.

3. Pro: Developing language skills

A big perk of having a career abroad is that you get to learn the local language. This can be a challenge, but it can also be a great way to improve your language skills. In many cases, you will be required to use the local language at work, which can help you to learn it faster. You may also find yourself using the language more often outside of work, which can further improve your fluency.

In addition, working abroad can provide opportunities to travel and explore the country. This can give you the chance to practice your language skills in a real-world setting. It can also help you to learn about the culture and customs of the country where you are working.

4. Con: Experiencing culture shock

One of the biggest challenges of working abroad is adjusting to the new culture. In many cases, you will be surrounded by people who have different values and customs than you do. It can be difficult to figure out what is acceptable and what is not. You may also find yourself experiencing culture shock when you first arrive in the country. This is a feeling of confusion or disorientation that can occur when you are exposed to a new culture.

It is important to remember that culture shock is normal and many people experience it when they work abroad. If you are feeling overwhelmed or confused, try to reach out for help. There are likely others who are going through the same thing as you are. By talking to others and learning more about the culture, you can adjust more quickly and make the most of your experience working abroad.

5. Pro: Gaining work experience

Working abroad can be a great opportunity to gain work experience and develop professionally. When you are in a new environment, you are forced to adapt quickly and learn new skills. This can be a great opportunity to improve your resilience and problem-solving skills. In addition, you may have the chance to learn new technologies or techniques that are not available in your home country. This is especially important for contractor, trade, and locum doctor jobs . A doctor can learn about important medical techniques, while a building contractor might learn how to operate new machinery. It’s a good way to improve one’s professional skills.

You can also use working abroad as an opportunity to network with people from other countries. By building relationships with people from different backgrounds, you can expand your professional circle and learn new ways of thinking about work-related problems. Additionally, working abroad can help you to develop stronger leadership skills. By taking on new challenges and leading projects in a foreign country, you can become a more well-rounded leader.

6. Con: Missing your friends and family

Another disadvantage of working abroad or traveling solo is the difficulty of being away from your friends and family. It can be hard to keep in touch with them, especially if there is a language barrier or long-distance fees involved. Additionally, you may feel isolated or homesick when you are in a new country without the people who know you best.

You should remember that it is natural to miss your loved ones while you are away. Try to stay connected by scheduling regular video calls and sending care packages. You should also take advantage of any holidays or vacations where you can go home and visit your family and friends. This will help ease the loneliness that comes with being away from home for an extended period of time.

Conclusion: The pros and cons of working abroad

Overall, there are both pros and cons to working abroad. It can be a great way to improve your language skills and gain work experience, but it also comes with the challenge of adjusting to a new culture and being away from your friends and family. Regardless of these challenges, working abroad offers an opportunity for personal growth and development that is worth considering.

Save this post for your next working abroad adventure!

Sharing is caring:.

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)

50 Adventure Captions for Travel Inspiration & Social Media Posts

23 books about travel and self-discovery to read in 2024, 5 essential safety tips for traveling alone, backpacking essentials – the ultimate packing list for backpackers.

Exploring New Horizons: The Pros and Cons of Working Abroad

As it stands today, the global marketplace presents various options for digital normads who want to work abroad.

Each opportunity represents a unique personal and professional growth option. From the busy streets of Tokyo to the historic landscapes of Europe, the opportunities are as different as the cultures around them.

As you set out on this interesting adventure, you discover that you are not just changing careers but also discovering yourself in a new environment.

So, let’s look at the pros and cons of working abroad.

Cultural Adaptation and Enrichment

Working abroad is a life-changing experience that involves learning about another culture and a willingness to change, and it is not just a change in employment.

People learn the true meaning of variety in the wide range of worldwide changes, getting a firsthand look at the practices, traditions, and business patterns that differentiate each country.

Outside the boundaries of the work environment, this cultural penetration affects people’s private lives and shapes their viewpoints.

The richness of exploring various environments produces a unique kind of awareness and tolerance. Working abroad isn’t the only thing to consider; another important aspect is developing personally while maintaining an international mindset.

Financial Benefits

The opportunity to earn money contributes additional value to the advantages of working abroad, adding to the benefits of career growth and discovering new cultures. Individuals often discover that working abroad provides attractive wages, properly representing the demand for their abilities globally.

As financial systems change and currency value shifts, those who work abroad may also be entitled to certain tax breaks and benefits due to their status as foreigners. Nevertheless, managing the financial side of working abroad requires in-depth knowledge of the structure of foreigners’ pay packages, tax implications and exchange rates.

Networking and Global Exposure

Working abroad offers individuals a unique opportunity to build international friendships by interacting with people from many industries and experiences. This broad community promotes a cross-cultural interaction of ideas and viewpoints and opens doors to new opportunities for employment.

Knowledge about the world these relationships provide is important for negotiating the details of working abroad.

Challenges and Considerations

Language Barriers: Navigating communication challenges in a non-native language

The multiple languages found in the international workplace have advantages and disadvantages. Communicating successfully in a non-native language is challenging, even though it strengthens the working environment.

Individuals must be open-minded and patient to communicate difficult ideas and details in a way that cuts across language barriers. It might include picking up a few words, communicating through gestures, utilising translation apps, asking for help, and embracing visual aids .

Going beyond this challenge improves communication abilities and improves knowledge of international relationships.

Cultural Shock and Adaptation: Understanding and adjusting to different work cultures

Understanding that work practices change significantly between countries can accompany the joy of working overseas, a term known as cultural shock. Adjusting to various work customs, communication styles, and structures is necessary to succeed in working abroad.

This shift can positively affect daily interactions and relations with others and the workplace. A successful and rewarding experience with working abroad requires skillfully overcoming these unique features of culture.

Legal and Visa Hurdles: Work visa requirements and their complexities

Amidst the excitement and challenges of international work, legal and visa considerations loom large. Each country has work visa requirements , and navigating the bureaucracy can be challenging.

Understanding the legal environment is important to ensure you follow the rules and avoid possible risks.

Workers must know the documentation needs, visa procedures, and any rules and regulations affecting them to operate without problems in another nation.

Work-Life Balance and Personal Impact

Working abroad adds an extra layer to balancing your job and personal responsibilities. The lines between one’s life at home and work occasionally become unclear due to the busy schedule of workers abroad. Ensuring a balanced work-life combination while overcoming the difficulties of relocating abroad is essential for long-term success and happiness.

According to Heather Monahan , it is important to remain flexible and constantly assess where you are with your goals and priorities. At times, your children may need you, and at other times, you may need to travel for work, but allowing yourself to remain open to redirecting and assessing your needs on any day is key to finding balance.

Professional Growth vs. Challenges

There are extra difficulties associated with pursuing career development on an international level. Workers are pulled into an endless cycle of learning and growth by exposure to various work situations and are expected to make continual changes. Overcoming obstacles, whether language, culture, or legal, serves as an opportunity for growth in one’s personal and professional life.

Career growth and challenges combine constantly to produce a pattern of experiences that transforms people into easily adaptable, globally-minded leaders.

The choice to work abroad combines interest, growth, and courage in the constantly changing world of working abroad. An international professional’s career can constantly change, from numerous career options to difficulties of cultural changes and legal restrictions.

When professionals balance the advantages and disadvantages, it becomes clear that the benefits flow through their identities. The richness of the international work experience is made clear by the rewarding experience of overcoming language barriers, cultural differences, and legal difficulties.

In summary, working abroad is a journey of self-discovery and personal development rather than a professional choice.

Individuals who welcome challenges and opportunities with open arms grow in their professions and become global citizens.

Similar Posts

UK Hikes Salary Requirements for Foreigners Applying for Work Visas

The United Kingdom is undergoing a significant transformation in its immigration policies. This is highlighted as the UK hikes salary…

All You Need to Know About Relocating to the UK in 2024

In 2024, relocating to the UK presents an exciting opportunity for those seeking new horizons. The United Kingdom, renowned for…

Tailoring Your Professional Background for the Competitive Canadian Job Market in 2023

To truly stand out and thrive in the Canadian job market, you need to tailor your professional background to the…

Elevate Your Career: Essential Steps to Become a Project Manager

Project management has emerged as a coveted and rewarding career path. As organizations across various industries recognize the value of…

Top 15 Empowering UK Scholarships for International Students

Studying abroad can be an enriching and life-changing experience. The United Kingdom, with its rich history, world-class education, and vibrant…

The Revolutionary Future of Scrum Masters and Product Owners

In the ever-evolving landscape of project management and product development, the roles of Scrum Masters and Product Owners are undergoing…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

RKY Careers

RKY Careers is made up of a team of professionals who support international students and professionals settling in the UK to navigate the Job market and land jobs from anywhere in the world.

• CV and Cover
• LinkedIn Optimization
• Personal Statement
• Career Advisory
• Interview Preparation
• Full Rebrand Package
• MSc Course Consultation

Quick Links

• Blog & Resources
• Industry Expertise
• Recruitments
• Collaborations
• Terms & Conditions
• [email protected]

5 Advantages (and 5 Disadvantages) of Working Abroad

by Munira Maricar - Last updated on April 28, 2023

• Before You Go

If there’s one thing many of us learned from the pandemic, it’s that there is a shrinking need for offices in general. Many workers have realized that most of their job duties can be fulfilled from the comfort of their own homes.

Easy access to cool travel destinations is just one of the many benefits of working abroad.

But if there’s no need to return to an office, why just stay home? Why not explore options outside your own country—and start enjoying the benefits of working abroad?

People who work remotely may seem positioned to receive the most working abroad benefits. A growing number of digital nomads, people holding full-time jobs while working in various countries all around the world , make it clear that there are many benefits to working abroad.

However, even if you don’t have a job that can be done online, there are still significant benefits of working overseas. You can reap working abroad benefits in offices that are based overseas, too.

Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of working abroad!

5 benefits of working abroad

1. you’ll broaden your mind.

When you live abroad, you get to understand other cultures, languages, and religions a lot better than if you just lived in the same place your whole life. If you work in a foreign office, you will be able to work face-to-face and socially interact with colleagues from different backgrounds.

Working in an office in Japan may expose you to a more disciplined and efficient working style, whereas working in Italy , for example, may teach you the true definition of meaningful work-life balance.

You can also gain cultural insights by working remotely in other countries. Not being tied to an office will give you the freedom to explore the country and meet new people on your own terms as well.

READ: 6 Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Remote Job

2. you’ll get to be away from your friends and family.

Now stay with us here—you’re still reading the list of benefits of working overseas, we promise! Friends and family create safe comfort zones. This may be great most of the time, but it makes it very difficult to challenge yourself and grow as a person.

In a new place abroad, you have to make the effort of stepping out of your comfort zone and creating friendships and relationships from scratch, without the history that you would have back home with your friends and family.

Extra perk? All those fun trips you’ll get to take with the friends you make in your new home.

You will also need to rely on yourself for many things , and that will do wonders for building up your character, confidence, and independence. Which brings us to the next benefit…

3. You’ll learn valuable life skills

Working and living abroad comes with a fair share of administrative work, financial management, and logistical planning. How will you secure your visa ? How long can you stay abroad? How will you find accommodation ?

Oh, and what is the best way to bring all the things you need? What is the cost of living where you’re moving? Do you need to change your spending habits in order to stick to your budget ? At least at the beginning of your time working overseas, you will likely have to deal with issues that are administrative, financial, or logistical—all in a completely different country! This will challenge you to be resourceful and in the process learn valuable skills that you can take with you for the rest of your life.

4. You’ll start to appreciate your country more

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and that could not be more true when you’re working and living abroad. With all the good that you will experience overseas, you will also experience the not-so-good, and in the process appreciate the little luxuries and stability you easily had at your disposal at home.

At the same time, you will learn humility from people who may not have had the luxuries you grew up having. You may even learn that you never needed certain luxuries in the first place, and move toward a simpler and less materialistic lifestyle.

Another side of the coin is that you will also view your home country through a different lens, which may include a more critical view of it. You will start to question the drawbacks of your own home country, and if you plan to go back, you can bring real-world expertise that can help you create meaningful change back home.

READ: 9 Ways Living Abroad for a Year Makes Your Travels More Meaningful

5. you’ll pump up your cv.

Most employers are impressed with a diverse resume! Working and living abroad can set you up for a fruitful career in the future. The new languages you speak, or the multiple international contacts you have, will be instrumental in making you stand out from the crowd when you’re ready to go for that dream job.

5 disadvantages of working abroad

Having some funds saved up can take some of the initial stress out of moving abroad to work.

1. Start-up costs

Although you are moving specifically to work and earn money, in most cases you won’t receive your first salary payment until at least the second month of your time abroad. This means you’ll need some savings to survive your first month in a new place.

Furthermore, unless you’re a high-ranking executive, you’ll be responsible for covering your cost of rent, utilities, and other living expenses. There are some programs that may help with daily life costs, depending on the type of job you want.

Here are a few cool picks that may interest you:

• Online Teaching Jobs
• Farm Work in Australia
• Part-time Nannying and Tutoring Jobs in France
• Paid Internships in 5 Star / 5 Diamond Hotels

2. Homesickness

Being away from home for a long time can cause serious homesickness for many people. Some things to try to combat loneliness while living abroad include:

• Scheduling weekly or monthly video calls with people back home to stay in touch and update each other about your lives.
• Finding the joys of doing things by yourself, like cooking your own meals or binging an entire series over the weekend.
• Keeping your living space clean and hospitable so you can accommodate last-minute guests who want to visit.
• Staying busy and occupied with various activities! For instance, you could take language courses or join classes at the gym to meet new people and challenge yourself at the same time.

3. Physical illness due to environmental differences

This is a factor that many people overlook when deciding to live and work abroad. If you’re used to living in a colder climate, for example, moving somewhere with a hotter climate may cause fatigue and dehydration a lot quicker for you than for others.

If you’re used to living closer to sea level, living in a place at a higher altitude may make you prone to migraines. You might also trigger stomach issues by accidentally drinking unsafe tap water or eating food that is unfamiliar to you.

Normally, it takes people up to two months to acclimatize to the new surroundings, so keep that in mind for a smoother process of settling in. Do some research on the climate and environment of the place where you’re going, and prepare ahead of time to get any extra vaccinations or stock up on medication to help with symptoms if you do get sick abroad .

Of course, go easy on yourself and get plenty of rest and water during this transition time and you’ll get used to the environment more quickly!

4. Missing out on what’s happening at home

No matter where you are in the world, it can be tough to miss out on things at home.

Choosing to live away from home can be expensive, especially because you will need to take flights. This means you can expect to miss out on milestones of your family and friends. You may have to skip out on attending a good friend’s wedding or miss the birth of your new cousin or niece.

On a sadder note, you may also miss out on spending time with elderly members of your family who might not have much time left in their active years. But as mentioned earlier, you can help mitigate this by scheduling and sticking to weekly or monthly video calls. It may not be the same as being there in person, but it will help you stay connected.

You can also set aside part of your salary in an “Emergency Travel Home Fund” in case you need to buy a last-minute ticket back home.

5. Never fully belonging

You may learn the language , adapt to the culture, and live in another country for many, many years. But at the end of the day, your roots will always be different from the locals. While many people are welcoming of foreigners, that is what you will always be—a foreigner.

You may not have the right to vote in that country or get involved in politically-inclined movements. For example, in Mexico, the government said that non-Mexicans were not allowed to participate in the Feminist Women’s March, and anyone caught doing so was subject to jail terms or deportation. A few countries in Asia and in the Arab region do not welcome LGBTQ+ people. We cannot state enough the importance of doing research on your country of choice before packing up your bags and setting off. Think about your priorities in life and you’re sure to find a working experience that works best with your needs and wants!

Get matched with 5 work abroad programs for FREE

Have an adventure—and advance your career.

Next stop: The intersection of travel adventure and professional success.

Living and working abroad comes with perks that are basically endless. Not only will you broaden your mind, but you will also gain valuable life skills that you can apply in the future, be it personally or professionally.

Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages of working abroad, you can prepare yourself accordingly for your next big adventure. As long as you have your goals set in place, narrowing down your options and finding an experience that works best for you will be a breeze!

Explore ALL Jobs Abroad on GoAbroad.com!

Want to Get Matched with Programs?

Use MyGoAbroad to Save & Compare Programs!

Want to teach English online or abroad with the #1 TEFL School?

Related Articles

15 cheapest places for digital nomads, how to live and work as a digital nomad, how to move to italy and get a job, what to know about living in china as an american, 10 best countries to work in the world in 2024, how to use linkedin to get a job abroad, popular searches, recommended programs.

2565 reviews

International TEFL Academy

1107 reviews

Premier TEFL

INTERNeX Pacific

166 reviews

London College of Teachers and Trainers

For Travelers

Travel resources, for partners.

© Copyright 1998 - 2024 GoAbroad.com ®

• Study Abroad
• Volunteer Abroad
• Intern Abroad
• Teach Abroad
• TEFL Courses
• Degrees Abroad
• High School Abroad
• Language Schools
• Adventure Travel
• Jobs Abroad
• Online Study Abroad
• Online Volunteer Programs
• Online Internships
• Online Language Courses
• Online Jobs
• Online TEFL Courses
• Online Degree Programs

• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow us on Twitter
• Follow us on YouTube
• Follow us on Pinterest
• Connect with us on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to our blog
• Cool and Unique Jobs (Check them out!)
• Take a Gap Year!
• Alaska Fishing Industry
• On-Demand Delivery Jobs
• Wine Industry Jobs
• Nursing Jobs (High Demand)
• Truck Driving Jobs (High Demand)
• Security Mercenary Jobs
• Becoming a Male Model
• Drone Operator Jobs
• Jobs in the Renewable Energy Industry
• On-Demand Odd Jobs

• Distillery Jobs
• Beach Resort Jobs
• Tour / Travel Gigs
• Pet Sitting Jobs
• Land Tour Section
• Animal Jobs Section
• Working Abroad
• Shared Economy Jobs Section
• Cicerone, Beer Sommelier Jobs
• Teaching / Tutoring / Coaching Gigs
• Backpacking Trip Leader Jobs

The Pros and Cons to Working Overseas

From becoming an ESL teacher overseas to moving to a foreign branch of a company where you already work, there are tons of job options in other countries that you can consider if you want to start working abroad . This career path has both advantages and disadvantages, no matter which new country you’re considering calling home. Let’s take a look at a few of the pros and cons of working overseas so you can decide if this is a good option for you.

Pros of Working Abroad

• Depending on your industry, there might be more options in foreign cities, meaning that you’re more likely to get hired.
• If you move to a place where cost of living is extremely low, but continue to work for a U.S.-based office, you could put a lot of money in the bank.
• Working abroad gives you the ability to see the world.
• Many companies offer incentives to employees who are willing to move overseas, such as free housing or annual bonuses.
• Moving overseas is the best way to learn a second language, and having this skill looks great on your resume when you’re job hunting in the future.
• You might be able to find a location with awesome weather (depending on your preferences) – it’s like you’re always on vacation!
• Working abroad makes it easier to become a citizen or otherwise legally stay in a country where you want to live.
• Companies often offer management positions to employees who go overseas, while if you stay in the U.S., you might be third or fourth (or fifth or…) behind others who are qualified for the promotion as well.

Cons of Working Abroad

• It’s expensive to move to another country if you take your belongings with you (or store them back home). Not every company offers to pay for relocation.
• It can be a hassle to go through the paperwork of moving to another country legally.
• If you’re moving to a new country, you might not know anyone or even know the native language. It can also be jarring to adjust to a new culture.
• If you feel homesick, it’s harder to visit friends and family if you’re coming from another country. In many cases, you’ll also be on a different sleep schedule than your loved ones, making it difficult to stay in touch.
• It will be harder for your family to adjust to new schools or find a new job.
• Taxes are often higher in foreign countries – though you may still pay in the U.S. instead of in your country of residence, depending on how long you live there.
• You could miss out on a promotion at your home office if you’re busy working overseas.
• Living conditions aren’t great in every country – it depends on where you live.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider before you pack your bags for the ESL teaching job in Japan or contract position at your company’s Germany office. Talk it through with your spouse, parents, or friends before you rush into the decision to make sure this really is the best move for your career and your life.

• Subcribe to our blog

Pros and Cons: Working Abroad

Are you considering working abroad ? If so, you’re in good company. All over the world, people are making the decision to move to another country in terms of better opportunities for themselves and their families. According to the United Nations, more than three percent of the world’s population is currently living and working outside the country of their birth, and that number continues to grow. All told, about 232 million people work outside the country of their birth, up from just 175 million in 2000. This boom in expatriates produces a number of pros and cons for those considering a position in another country. If you are thinking of joining their ranks, consider some of the benefits and drawbacks of spending time working abroad.

Pro: Opportunities for Personal Growth

Living in another country can help you to grow and develop as a person. After all, you’re being exposed to a new culture, new customs, and possibly even a new language. All of this is extremely rewarding and can enrich your life in ways that can’t always be quantified or anticipated.

Con: Culture Shock

On the other hand, the amount of adaptation and change you need to fit into a new culture can be challenging, especially when it makes you feel isolated, insecure, or confused. Culture shock can also lead to depression or even antipathy to the host culture, if you don’t take steps to assimilate and fit in where you live and work.

Pro: Financial Rewards

If you’ve been recruited to work in another country, chances are it’s because the company really wants you. They may offer you financial incentives, bonuses, or paid moving and housing expenses to get you there. Living expenses in many countries are often cheaper than back home, especially if you are moving from the United States to areas where the local currency isn’t as strong as the dollar. Depending on your compensation package and how you are paid, you can parlay your salary into a lot more bang for the buck.

However, the taxes you pay might make it less rewarding than you think. While many European countries only require their citizens to pay taxes where they live and work, in many cases the United States requires its citizens to pay taxes both in the host country and back home. U.S. income taxes on top of already high income taxes in the host country can make that high salary dwindle down fast. Be sure to run the numbers and think carefully about whether you can afford life abroad. You may want to speak to a financial advisor before you accept a position.

Pro: You Can Leave Your Old Life Behind

If you’re looking for a fresh start, there’s no better way to leave everything behind than to move to another country where nobody knows who you are and they have no expectations about how you should look, act, or behave. In your new country, you can craft a new persona and be the person you’ve always wanted to be. Plus, in many places, Western expatriates have a great deal of prestige, and you might find yourself becoming a local celebrity, or at least the object of curiosity.

Con: You Have to Leave Everything Behind

However, if you have strong connections with family and friends, being thousands of miles away can be a major challenge, especially if it takes 8, 10, 12, or more hours to fly home for important celebrations and life events. Not seeing family and friends regularly can be a big problem, especially if you find yourself homesick in your new country.

Only you can decide whether the pros outweigh the cons for you, but many people who have taken the plunge and work abroad have found it to be a rewarding and beneficial experience. Future employers will always give a second look to a resume that shows international experience, especially in this age of globalization. As they say, you only live once. Why not give living and working abroad a try?

This pros and cons essay sample is provided by CheapWritingHelp.com – online essay service and its professional academic writer.

Here is probably the most extensive ebook on Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Eliminating Your Taxes, Protecting Your Assets And Regaining Privacy Over Your Life And Investments . It is called The Ultimate Guide To Going Offshore .  Visit our bookstore to purchase it today!

I hope you enjoyed reading: Pros and Cons: Working Abroad. If you have any questions, please contact our office HERE .

I’ve included some great articles for you to read, enjoy!

Experience the Insider community that takes your international lifestyle to the next level. Download your FREE guide

"18 Steps to Implementing Your Plan B" instantly!

Guide to Foreign Tax Credit, Foreign Tax Treaties and Foreign Housing Exclusion

A Dive into Costa Rica—A Cultural Guide to the Central American Paradise

Digital Nomad Hotspots in Spain  

A Path to Costa Rican Nationality through Retirement

20 Reasons to Consider Working in Singapore

Like Our Articles?

Then make sure to check out our Bookstore... we have titles packed full of premium offshore intel. Instant Download - Print off for your private library before the government demands we take these down!

Why is it Easier for Millennials to Find Work Abroad?

Argentina: Why You Might Need a National ID Card in Addition to Your Passport and DNI…

Reasons Why You Should Invest in Mexican Real Estate

3 ways to create a tax free offshore bank account

Feria de los Flores

5 Positive Side Effects of Moving Abroad

Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example)

Studying abroad essay: introduction, benefits of studying abroad: essay body paragraphs, challenges of studying abroad: essay body, pros and cons of studying abroad: essay conclusion.

On the outside, it may seem extraordinarily strange that some individuals choose to journey hundreds, perhaps thousands of miles to study abroad when they could just easily register for a similar course in their home country. But on the inside, there are many valid reasons why individuals may choose to cross borders in the pursuit of a degree, diploma or certificate program that is readily available at home.

In the 21st century, many students are convinced that it is seldom enough to graduate from any learning institution. Rather, students want to study in internationally recognized institutions, which offer better opportunities and exposure towards preparing them for future career undertakings. However, there exists a myriad of challenges and problems associated with studying abroad. This paper purposes to look at the pros and cons of studying abroad.

As already mentioned, the advantages of studying abroad are many. First, international institutions offer a wide variety of courses, some of which may not be available at home. The wide variety gives the students an upper hand in selecting courses that are tailored to meet their preferences and the needs of the market.

Indeed, many students from less developed countries choose to study abroad since many of the courses offered at home have become irrelevant to the needs and requirements of the job market. In this respective, students who study abroad are assured of having a competitive advantage over their counterparts who wish to study at home since they will have a chance to select courses that are tailored to meet the specific needs of the job market.

Second, the exposure one gets while studying abroad goes a long way to assist individuals in the social and work life later on in life. By studying abroad, students get to experience and feel life in a foreign country that may be practicing different values and way of living from their home countries.

The knowledge and experience received from interacting with individuals from diverse ethnic and cultural orientations make an individual develop balanced perceptions regarding other people.

This is especially important in the job market as multinational corporations, the main employers, are always on the lookout for dynamic employees who can fit in any ethnic or cultural group. What’s more, the experience received from interacting with diverse cultures while studying abroad assist individuals to gain a well-informed perspective of how the world works.

Studying abroad also comes with many opportunities that may be hard to find in home countries. Students are offered the opportunity to learn new and exiting languages while studying in modern institutions equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, contemporary library services and best computer facilities one could think of. This may be a tall order to request from local institutions of learning.

These opportunities assure the students of excelling in life due to the simple yet weighty reason for studying in accredited learning institutions. It is imperative to note that knowledge of different kinds of languages is an important asset in the job market.

Students in countries such as the UK, Japan, and the US have the opportunity to work during the course of their study. Such an opportunity may be severely limited in many other countries where graduates struggle to find cleaning jobs — as such, studying abroad may also come with a good prospect of finding a job.

There exist several disadvantages of studying abroad. One of the most challenging disadvantages relates to culture shock. Some students find it extremely hard to adopt or get assimilated to the cultures of foreign countries. As such, their stay in such countries is full of difficulties.

For instance, some forms of foodstuffs that are viewed as delicacies in foreign counties may be a taboo to eat in local countries. Some religious and cultural dogmas also worsen the problem of culture shock. Culture shock is a leading cause of suicide among students studying abroad.

Apart from culture shock, many students suffer from acute spasms of homesickness while studying abroad. This actively serves to deter them from achieving their long-held dreams since many are unable to cope or adjust to the fast pace of life in foreign countries. Difficulties in communication have also been mentioned as a disadvantage in studying abroad.

Students will be inarguably faced with the problem of contact if they cannot speak the official language of the host country. What’s more, studying abroad is thought to be a very expensive affair due to high tuition fees and other charges related to air travel and upkeep. As such, it is seen as beyond the reach of many students who would otherwise want to study abroad.

All in all, there exist many more pros and cons of studying abroad. However, the bottom line is that students wishing to study abroad must prepare themselves thoroughly before jumping into the next plane to take them abroad. As discussed in the essay, studying abroad brings immense opportunities that may be unachievable locally.

However, some of the consequences of studying abroad may be potentially fatal if adequate preparation is not factored in. Students wishing to study abroad must, therefore, do their best to collect information relating to a broad spectrum of issues practiced in host countries. There are established agencies that can assist the students in knowing a thing or two about countries they may wish to visit for study purposes.

Cite this paper

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2020, April 4). Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example). https://studycorgi.com/studying-abroad-pros-and-cons/

"Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example)." StudyCorgi , 4 Apr. 2020, studycorgi.com/studying-abroad-pros-and-cons/.

StudyCorgi . (2020) 'Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example)'. 4 April.

1. StudyCorgi . "Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example)." April 4, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/studying-abroad-pros-and-cons/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example)." April 4, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/studying-abroad-pros-and-cons/.

StudyCorgi . 2020. "Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example)." April 4, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/studying-abroad-pros-and-cons/.

This paper, “Studying Abroad: Pros and Cons (Essay Example)”, was written and voluntary submitted to our free essay database by a straight-A student. Please ensure you properly reference the paper if you're using it to write your assignment.

Before publication, the StudyCorgi editorial team proofread and checked the paper to make sure it meets the highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, fact accuracy, copyright issues, and inclusive language. Last updated: November 10, 2023 .

If you are the author of this paper and no longer wish to have it published on StudyCorgi, request the removal . Please use the “ Donate your paper ” form to submit an essay.

30 Advantages and Disadvantages of Living Abroad

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: March 18, 2023  - Last updated: July 5, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This and display ads allow me to keep the site up to date and give back .

I love that I’ve created a life where I can live anywhere in the world, but there are definitely advantages and disadvantages of living abroad.

While moving abroad might be the best decision you will ever make, there will no doubt be ups and downs.

Living abroad is both exciting and adventurous, but it also means leaving behind the comforts of home, like friends, family, and your favorite foods.

In this post, I will break down the pros and cons of living abroad to help prepare you if you’re considering a move!

Overview: Advantages and disadvantages of living abroad

Don’t forget health insurance.

Before you move abroad, one of the most important things is to protect yourself with health insurance.

I use and love SafetyWing , which is insurance made for digital nomads. It works in over 190 countries, so it covers you worldwide, no matter where you choose to call home.

Getting stuck with expensive medical bills can be a major disadvantage to living abroad, but you can minimize that risk by protecting yourself with travel insurance.

Disadvantages of Living Abroad

There are so many pros to living abroad, but before we get into those – let’s go over some of the cons of living abroad.

#1. Language barriers

Ok, so this might be an advantage if you love learning new languages and are a fast learner. But if you’re anything like me, you may find it hard to communicate with the locals beyond anything but going to the supermarket.

As soon as you have to do anything bureaucratic, rent an apartment, or sign up for the gym, it can feel extremely frustrating not knowing the language. It can be one of the hardest parts of living abroad!

How frustrating this is will depend on the English levels in the country and area you are moving to. For example, living in Spain or Portugal can be easy in the major cities with large expat groups like Lisbon and Tenerife, but it may be a challenge in a smaller town where fewer locals speak English.

Want to learn a language before you go? This language-learning app can help!

#2. Visas and bureaucracy

One of the biggest cons to living abroad is dealing with the local bureaucracy, which is usually a world apart from what you are used to in your home country.

Depending on the country you are living in, you might have to go through extreme processes for small things. For example, in Portugal, I had to sign over 100 pages just to open a bank account!

It can be an extremely frustrating process, especially when combined with a foreign language. You often end up feeling like a ping-pong ball running from office to office, trying to figure out what’s going on!

Often, it is worth it to pay a lawyer or a professional to help with the paperwork if you find it too frustrating. Sometimes it is just worth the extra expense to get it done right and save your energy for something fun instead.

I recently paid a lawyer to help me get my temporary residency status in Mexico, and it was worth every penny.

#3. You are far from friends and family

While this can be a blessing for some that have a hard relationship with family and friends, many people find it difficult to be away from friends and family. Whether it is a parent, both parents, or one or several friends, most of us have at least one person that has been a rock in our life.

And while being far apart may seem easy with today’s technology and video calls available at all times, in real life, it can feel incredibly lonely not to have people who know you well. People that know how you feel just by a look at you and that can heal you with their hug.

Especially when you have to go through hard processes with language barriers on a day, you just feel generally down.

We all have those days, and trust me, they can feel a lot darker when you are in a new place, and everyone that truly knows you is far away. And maybe they are in a completely different time zone, so you can not call them when you want to because it is 3 AM on a worknight for them.

Moving abroad can put a strain on romantic relationships, friendships, and family ties, and it may take time to adjust to the distance.

#4. Health and Safety Concerns

Moving to a new country can come with some health and safety concerns, such as exposure to new diseases or viruses.

Three days after moving to Barbados, I was infected with dengue fever which left me bedridden for two weeks! It was an awful experience, and not having anyone around to take care of me made it even worse.

Fortunately, many diseases can be prevented by keeping your vaccinations up to date , which is why it’s so important to research the health and safety risks associated with your destination before you make the move.

#5. It can be hard to build a new community

Depending on your destination, it can be hard to get make new friends you feel close to. But not impossible. If you move to a destination with a thriving expat and digital nomad community, you can connect with the community before moving to start building relationships before you even get there.

Most of my best friends I have met on the road, and the positive thing about meeting other expats is that they know exactly what you are going through.

They have already gone through or will be going through the same ups and downs of living abroad, which can make it easier to help you get through it.

One of the best ways to connect with locals and other expats is to join meetups in your interests. All this can be even more overwhelming if you are an introvert, but when you move abroad, you have to push yourself a little extra if you want to build a new community.

#6. You’ll miss things from home

Depending on where you move, it may be extremely different from your home country. For example, if you move from the United States to Thailand, you’ll probably end up craving American comfort foods. No matter how incredible Thai food is!

But even if you move to a western European country with a lot of similar food, there will be certain things you cannot get hold of.

Sometimes you can get surprised by the foods you miss.

It could be that one brand of raspberry jam that you hardly ever ate back home, but now you want it, and you cannot find it anywhere, or maybe the late-night takeaway from around the corner.

It can also be hard to send food, especially to the EU. So while you might get some food sent to you from home, customs might stop it.

But remember that the food is also one of the best things about moving abroad – you will try so many amazing new dishes!

#7. Culture shock

Culture shock is real. It’s the feeling of disorientation that comes from being in an unfamiliar culture, and it can be difficult to cope with.

Sometimes you expect it – for example, if you move from the United States to India, you can be assured that you’ll have to deal with a completely new culture that will likely be a shock for you.

But if you move from one country in Europe to another, you may still be surprised by how many cultural differences you will encounter.

For example, say you have lived in laid-back Spain for a year and then decide to move to Germany, where everyone expects you to be on time. It will take some time to readjust.

It usually takes a few months before the culture shock truly kicks in because, in the beginning, you will be in the “honeymoon phase.” Everything is exciting and new; you are getting to know a new place, new people, and maybe a new job.

But once this phase passes, you are left with the reality of living in a new country. You start to feel daily life and notice that it is so different from what you are used to. Your autopilot does not work in this new country.

This period can feel daunting, but if you know it is coming, you can prepare mentally and look for all the fantastic advantages of living abroad instead.

#8. It can be expensive

Moving is generally expensive and can be very expensive when you’re moving abroad. Between buying international flight tickets, putting deposits down, and furnishing new apartments. Plus, you’re likely to want to go out often and experience the new country you’re in, which can also add up quickly.

However, moving abroad can also put you in a financially advantageous situation if you relocate somewhere with living expenses cheaper than in your home country. For example, my costs of living in Mexico are significantly more affordable than they were in Toronto.

By moving to affordable destinations , this can actually be a massive advantage.

You can save money abroad by creating a free multi-currency account here

#9. Career setbacks

Moving abroad can come with career setbacks, such as having to start over in a new industry or facing a lower salary than you would have in your home country.

But sometimes, you have to take a leap of faith and leave behind something “safe” to find something better. Everyone thought I was crazy when I quit my 9-5 government job in Canada, but there’s not a day that goes by I regret it!

#10. Loss of connection to home

Living abroad can lead to a loss of connection to your home country and culture. Aside from the distancing of relationships, you may return to your home country feeling that you don’t belong at all anymore. This is what eventually happened to me and Canada.

But on the flip side, this means that you may have found somewhere better that feels more like home.

#11. Finding employment may be hard

Finding employment in a foreign country can be challenging. There may be cultural and language barriers to navigate and legal and visa requirements that can limit your employment options.

It also just may be a lousy job market. When I moved abroad for the first time to Dublin in 2009, the immigration officer asked me why I was entering the country. When I told him to work, he literally laughed in my face and stamped me in! I guess that’s what I get for moving during a global recession, but still, I made it work.

Now, the rise of remote work opportunities has made it much more feasible to work worldwide. By working remotely, you can live abroad in many countries without having a work visa. Many countries have introduced digital nomad visas for exactly this reason!

#12. It’s exhausting moving around

Packing up your old life and starting a new one is exhausting. Trust me; I’ve done it a hundred times. But as annoying as packing is, the trade-off is always worth it.

One way to minimize the annoyance of packing and moving is investing in quality luggage that’s easy to move around. These are my favorite carry-on suitcases for women , which are perfect for weekend trips from your new home.

This is the suitcase I’ve been traveling around the world with!

#13. It can be difficult to stay long-term

There are advantages and disadvantages to moving abroad, and for some people, it may be that they want to stay long-term in the country!

If you move abroad and fall completely in love with the country, you may want to consider becoming a permanent resident. But, unfortunately, this isn’t always possible.

While some countries have a pathway to citizenship, many don’t. You may find yourself having to say goodbye to a place you love due to legal restrictions, which can be difficult.

When choosing where to move abroad, you may want to consider what places will allow you to stay long-term. Or try to find someone who will marry you while you’re there!

#14. Taxes are confusing

You’ll have to figure out how the taxes work in your new country and if you must notify your home country about earnings even after moving away. All of this can feel extremely overwhelming when you just want to enjoy a glass of vino!

As mentioned above, it’s often worth it just to pay someone to advise or help you. Because you don’t want the tax man coming after you!

#15. You may not agree with the local customs

When you’re living in a foreign country, you must adapt to the local rules and customs, and you may not always agree with them. Still, it’s important to be respectful and follow them so you don’t get in trouble.

For the most part, it’s a beautiful thing to experience another country’s culture and immerse yourself in it. You may end up taking some of their traditions back home with you!

Advantages of living abroad

#15. you’ll make incredible memories.

Having new experiences with new friends in a foreign country are likely to be some of your life’s best memories. Despite all the disadvantages mentioned above, I wouldn’t trade the memories I’ve made abroad for anything.

From moving to Ireland on a solo trip for the first time, studying in New Zealand, and getting my first tattoo in Chiang Mai , I’ve had many life-changing experiences abroad.

Keep track of your new memories in this travel journal!

#16. Discover new hobbies and passions

Living abroad can expose you to new hobbies and interests you may not even know you had! You’ll have the chance to try new activities and develop new passions, maybe even find a new career.

It was moving abroad that gave me my passion for hiking and the outdoors. In Canada, I was inside all the time because I hated the cold! But living in places like New Zealand helped me discover new interests that I still love today.

#17. You’ll step out of your comfort zone

One of the best advantages of living abroad is that you will have to deal with all the cons of moving abroad, which will make you a much stronger person. Stepping out of your comfort zone is one of the best things you can do for personal development!

No, this is not just a clishé. It is actually real.

Handling all the hard times, new environments, language skills, solving problems alone without your normal support network, and trusting strangers, will make you a much stronger person. It will build you up to handle life challenges and adapt to new environments and situations much easier.

#18. Find out who your true friends are

Once you have lived abroad or traveled for a long period of time, you will realize who your real friends are back home.

The friends that thought would be there for you for life, may not actually be there for you when you get back. On the other hand, others that you have not talked to in months and thought you would lose as friends are the ones supporting you when you come back.

This might feel like a painful process, but it is also a good way to weed out the people that you grow apart from while using your energy on the people that will have your back.

#19. Learn to master communication

If you live in a country with a new language, you must communicate in some way. Yes, you might find it frustrating, but it can also be a positive thing.

If the locals you meet do not speak English well and you are still not getting the new language, you might have to use sign language and smiles.

You will be surprised by how far you can get with that and how many fun memories you will create with complete strangers – filled with laughter.

This is a universal skill you can use wherever you travel that will be extremely useful!

#20. You can easily travel to new places

If you are moving abroad from the U.S. or Canada to Europe or Southeast Asia, you will be so excited about how easy it is to travel to different countries compared to home.

Both train/bus travel and low-cost airlines will transport you across borders in no time, and you can easily expand your horizons beyond your new country.

Instead of just getting to visit one country, you’ll have the opportunity to visit dozens.

#21. Grow a global mindset

One of the best advantages of moving abroad is to experience how people from a country really are. You might get rid of biases and fears and gain a new perspective.

Meeting people from around the world with different cultural backgrounds makes you realize that we are all people, and we all dream of freedom and happiness.

You will grow your cultural awareness and adapt to different cultures easier, which is a valuable life skill. The culture shock you might get by moving abroad will also become your strength.

#22. You can learn a new language

Okay, so we talked about having to learn a new language as a disadvantage. But it can also be an extreme advantage!

If you studied a new language at school, you know how easy it is to forget it if you do not use it. But if you’re living in the country and hearing the language every day, it is so much easier to learn.

The most important thing to do is to get out of your comfort zone and try to speak the language and not be afraid of making mistakes (because we all make mistakes when we are learning.)

It is so easy to lean on English when the other person speaks the language. However, if you tell the other person that you want to practice their language, you will often be met with a positive attitude.

Another good option is to look for local language swap groups. At these, you’ll speak English for a set time for the other person to improve their English conversation skills, and then swap to the local language so that you can practice your conversational skills.

#23. Sense of excitement and adventure

Moving abroad is a big change. It’s an adventure of a lifetime that fills you with a sense of excitement and anticipation.

You’ll be embarking on a new chapter in your life, and there’s no better feeling in the world than that.

#24. Higher quality of life

Moving to a new country can sometimes mean an increase in your life quality, with better healthcare, education, or lifestyle opportunities.

While Canada is generally considered a country with a higher quality of life, I find myself much happier living in climates like the Caribbean or Mexico, where there’s more sunshine and opportunities to be outdoors in the sea.

#25. It gives you a break from routine

Moving abroad can be a refreshing change from the familiarity and routine of home life. You’ll have the chance to challenge yourself and try new things, which can be energizing and inspiring.

In the times that I’ve felt stuck in life, moving abroad has always helped.

#26. It makes you more independent

Moving abroad can be a great opportunity to become more independent and self-reliant.

You’ll be navigating a new culture and environment on your own, which can help you develop new skills and strengths. Having to overcome problems and challenges will build up your confidence and make you a more independent person.

#27. Build a global network of friends

When you move abroad, you have the chance to build new relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. This can be a great way to expand your social network and create a global network of friends.

I’m so grateful for the network of friends I have around the world now. It’s rare that I show up in a destination without knowing someone, and that’s a beautiful feeling.

#28. Improved health and wellness

In some countries, there may be better access to healthcare, healthier food options, and a culture that prioritizes wellness. Starting a new life in such an environment can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health – it’s certainly been the case for me!

In Canada (especially during the winter), I tend to hibernate and do minimal physical exercise. But while living abroad in places like Bali , I’m outside all the time exploring the amazing nature.

#29. Help create a new sense of identity

Moving abroad can lead to a new sense of identity as you adapt to new cultural norms and values. This can be a chance to redefine yourself and your place in the world.

When I moved abroad for the first time at 19 to Dublin, I was on the verge of failing out of university because I was studying something that wasn’t aligned with me.

It was my time abroad that made me realize my true passions, and by taking that gap year abroad, I ended up switching majors and graduating on the dean’s list.

#30. Networking

Living abroad can provide networking opportunities that may not have been available in your home country. You’ll have the chance to meet people from different industries and backgrounds, which can lead to new job opportunities and collaborations.

Plus, gaining international experience working in different cultures and environments can be attractive to employers and may lead to new job opportunities.

FAQ: Advantages and disadvantages of living abroad

What are the advantages of living abroad.

Living abroad can offer many advantages, such as cultural enrichment, language skills, career opportunities, personal growth, adventure, networking, and more.

What are the disadvantages of living abroad?

While there are many advantages to living abroad, there are also some disadvantages to consider. These can include feelings of homesickness and loneliness, as well as difficulties in adapting to a new culture, language, and environment. It may be challenging to navigate unfamiliar social norms and customs, and you may encounter cultural misunderstandings or barriers.

What are the pros and cons of living and working abroad?

Living and working abroad can have both pros and cons. On one hand, it can provide opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural enrichment, language acquisition, and travel. It can provide opportunities for career advancement, exposure to new industries and markets, and the chance to develop a global network. On the other side, living and working abroad can be challenging and lonely, especially if you do not have a support system in place. You may encounter cultural barriers and have difficulty adapting to a new environment, which can cause stress and anxiety.

What are the advantage and disadvantages of leaving your country to live or study abroad?

Living or studying abroad can offer advantages such as cultural enrichment, language acquisition, personal growth, and career opportunities. However, it can also pose challenges such as culture shock, homesickness, financial strain, and legal and annoying bureaucracy.

Final thoughts on the pros and cons of living abroad

As you can see, there are a lot of advantages and disadvantages of living abroad, and most of the cons can actually be pros if you look at them in a new light.

Living in a different country will only make you a stronger and more versatile person to handle what life has in store for you. Still, it’s important to be aware of the potential disadvantages, such as homesickness, cultural differences, and financial challenges.

Weigh the pros and cons if you’re considering moving abroad, but I am positive that moving abroad at least once in your life is one of the best things you can do.

With the right mindset and preparation, it can be an exciting and fulfilling adventure that broadens your horizons and enriches your life.

Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

View all posts

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Oh I relate a lot to this – especially the feeling not belonging in your home anymore. I live abroad since 2016 and it is always a weird feeling visiting France for holidays. Like I am not “at home” anymore.

• United Kingdom
• United States
• North America
• Latin America
• APAC (Australia, New Zealand and Asia Pacific)
• EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa)

Pros and Cons of Working Abroad for a Year

There are so many wonderful things about bravely leaping into the unknown, and spending a year working abroad.

From experiencing a different culture to getting more bang for your buck, a whole new world will open up to you – new ways of thinking, new food to eat, and new friends.

If life is just a series of events, a disjointed tale of things that happen, why not have some of those things happen in a fascinating location that can develop you both personally and professionally?

And gloriously, the best places to work right now are scattered all over the world, from Canada to Bahrain, via Helsinki.

That means you have a massive variety of destinations to choose from – but before you make your final decision, let’s prepare you for the inevitable ups and downs of your sojourn.

Would this be your experience? Maybe!

You could make more money

Many places which attempt to entice British workers do so by paying them more than they earn at home.

Singapore , Switzerland , and the United Arab Emirates are prime examples of countries which have high average salaries or make especially generous offers for foreign expertise – or both.

And it’s not just the lucky minority who profit from moving to a different country for work. 74% of expats increase their income abroad , according to the HSBC Expat Explorer Survey .

Many countries also have lower living costs than the UK, allowing you to hold onto more of your higher salary and set yourself up nicely for when you come back home.

You’ll learn new skills

You could take your abilities – and therefore your career – to a higher level by working in a new environment.

A massive 71% of people who work abroad when they’re under 35 learn new skills, according to HSBC’s survey.

So be like a sponge dropped in an interesting new bucket, and absorb everything you can from different experts in your field.

You’ll experience a different culture

It’s great to become a significant part of your community, to learn about your city, and to grow roots in your hometown.

But you’re not a tree. You don’t have to stand, motionless, in the same place for eternity. 

You’re more like the nomadic flamingos in the African portion of the Great Rift Valley, who move from lake to lake in search of sustenance.

Just like those birds, you’ll gain more from flying further afield. You’ll grow professionally, by seeing different working practices, listening to new perspectives, and improving your communication skills – but you’ll also grow as a person.

If you’re open to it, you’ll learn more about yourself, absorb new ways of living and thinking about life, and develop a more well-rounded view of humanity.

This will let you wow colleagues and friends back home, but more importantly, it’ll enable you to become a better version of yourself.

Ready to experience a different culture abroad? Get an idea for what it’ll cost to ship your belongings with our detailed guide on international shipping costs .

You can travel and see wonders

Free from responsibilities, and from the usual number of obligations to friends and family, you’ll be able to spread your wings and fly all over your new country.

And why stop there? If it’s possible, squeeze as much from your time – and your British passport – as you possibly can.

Now is the time to see far-flung places and make memories that’ll last your whole life.

If you’re working in the US or Australia, make a list of states and attractions you want to see. If you’re in Europe, a list of countries. The sky’s the limit.

You’ll make interesting friends

Developing relationships in another country gives you an insight into that culture, a more nuanced understanding of the human condition, and a deeper sense of empathy.

Many of the benefits we mention in this article come directly from making friends who can show you the best and worst facets of their region.

There’s nothing like seeing how the local culture or political situation affects someone you care about to help you understand that place.

And if your new friendships mean you have somewhere to stay when you visit your adopted home on holiday, that’s a nice bonus.

Goodbye, stereotypes

Making friends and forging connections to people and places is also the best way to destroy – or lovingly contextualise – any stereotypes you have about the region.

Do you think people in the American South eat a lot of unhealthy food? You may be right, but if a new friend introduces you to deep-fried okra, along with the income inequality that forces poorer families to buy convenient, cheap food, you’ll understand the situation better.

Going on holiday is lovely, but it only provides you with a quick, basic sketch of a country.

If you live there for a year, you get to see it as an oil painting. You’re able to see where the paint has faded or cracked, understand why certain colours have been used, and appreciate the masterpiece’s beauty – and flaws – in full.

You’ll come back knowing that Colombia is more than the drug trade, or that France is more than wine and cheese, or that Japan is more than cool tech and sushi.

Knowledge is power – and fun

From understanding the approach to life in your temporary home to learning which foods you can no longer live without, you’ll return from your travels ready to share the gifts you’ve absorbed.

This can – and will – take many shapes.

You’ll enthusiastically force your friends to go to restaurants catering to your new-found tastes, share your helpful cultural knowledge with colleagues, and generally be a more interesting human.

You can gently deconstruct other people’s impressions of the country you lived in (not everyone in Brazil loves football and knows how to samba, Dave) and introduce more nuance into the world.

Need to convert your British pound sterling into a different currency?

In short: it’s best to avoid using high street banks for this process, as you’ll usually have to pay high fees, and you won’t get the best exchange rate. 

That’s why we’ve done our research and compared all the major money transfer services on the market, so you can choose the right one. Check out our expert ratings and find the best money transfer provider today .

Working abroad can be beautiful – but isolating

The culture shock

It’s not easy to seamlessly slot into a whole new culture, with its compendium of different social rules and work habits. 

It’s obviously harder if you’re not fluent in the language, but even if you are, there will be new words, phrases, and ways of speaking that’ll knock you off balance.

Feeling like an outsider in your new home is hard, and you’ll constantly be reminded of how you don’t belong.

You’ll reveal your accent every time you speak, and while it can feel exciting at first when people react in surprise and delight, it can also get old pretty quickly.

Get ready to be a fully fledged representative for the UK, and answer an increasingly inane set of stereotype-based questions.

No-one will blame you if you eventually crack and say that you have, in fact, met the Queen, and that you’re best friends with Her Majesty.

An increased mental load

It’s also exhausting to settle into a new routine.

You’ll suddenly appreciate the sheer number of daily tasks you’re usually able to complete without thinking, as everything from taking the bus to getting lunch becomes a potential pitfall.

There’s also the matter of learning the local etiquette. Everything from tipping to the way you greet people may be different to what you’re used to.

You’ll get used to the new rules and routine over time, but depending on where you move and how quickly you pick everything up, you may end up coming home before you figure it all out.

You’ll be away from your friends and family

Sure, you’ll make new friends, but you’ll still miss out on spending time with your loved ones back home.

Ironically, even though you’re the one leaping headfirst into amazing adventures, and even though your Instagram profile will look better than any of your friends’ feeds, your FOMO (fear of missing out) feelings may well be stronger than theirs.

You’ll see their photos of nights out and trips to the pub, and be hit with an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and longing.

You may even wonder what you’re doing spending a year away from everyone you know and love.

You may feel lonely

This can lead to feelings of loneliness, especially if you don’t know anyone in your new home.

Making friends takes time, so you may be in for a few weeks of exploring your local area by yourself.

You can combat this by taking risks when it comes to making connections. After all, who wouldn’t want to show off their city to the interesting foreigner?

There’s also a danger that you’ll feel isolated, because everything’s so different from your normal life.

Embracing what’s different about you, and what’s different about the people you meet, is a process, and it won’t happen immediately – but you can speed it up by embracing the culture.

Ask questions, say yes a lot, and approach new experiences with an open mind.

Taxes may be higher

As a temporary resident in your new country, you’ll almost certainly still have to pay your fair share back to the UK, in the shape of income tax.

Many countries won’t force you to pay them any more in income tax – but some will.

Make sure you talk to a tax specialist before you move abroad.

Understanding the world complexly is a crucial skill, and working abroad will allow you to expand this ability.

You may well also be able to earn more money, make new friends, and develop your professional skills, all while enjoying every new experience the region has to offer.

If you want to spend your whole life in the place you were randomly born, that’s your choice, but the world is massive and you only get one life – so we’d encourage you to take exciting opportunities when you can.

Written by:

Latest blog articles.

• The 9 Countries With the Best Healthcare 2023
• The 7 Best Podcasts for Expats
• Which Countries Have Restrictions on Unvaccinated People?

Latest Research Articles

• Watch Brits Try to Label a Map of Europe
• The Hipster Index
• Where to Move When You're Young and Broke

Top 7 benefits of living and working abroad

For many people, the advantages of working abroad are only linked to higher wages or better living standards. But gaining international experience can be a lot more beneficial than people think.

Better self-esteem

Starting a new life abroad comes with its own set of challenges − from finding accommodation to sorting out different administrative matters, learning how to pay your bills, and getting around with local transport. But once you figure all these things out, the feeling of satisfaction you will get is worth it. Knowing that you can manage in a completely unknown environment will give you the confidence you need to tackle other challenges in life. This is especially important if you do not have a lot of experience living on your own.

New life skills

When you move abroad, you are often separated from your support system. In these moments, you can find out about different knowledge and skill gaps, which you did not know you had. For example, you may realise that you do not know how to cook your favourite meal or keep track of your monthly budget. Living abroad makes us learn new skills out of necessity, which helps us be more independent.

New perspective on life

Whether you are from a small town or big city, moving abroad will give you an invaluable new perspective on life. Seeing other cultures’ mentality and approach to life can help you expand and enrich your own worldview and establish your personal values. This is much harder to do if you have never lived outside your local community.

Better communication skills

Moving abroad means that you have to build new social and professional circles. This can be hard, especially if you are shy by nature or if you do not speak the local language too well. However, this is the best way to improve your communication – a skill that is not just important in your daily life, but also valued by employers.

Better foreign language skills

No matter how many language lessons you take, and how much you practice on language learning apps on your phone, the best way to improve your language skills is to live in the country that speaks it. Being ‘immersed’ in the language is a great opportunity to build your listening and speaking skills.

Advantage over other jobseekers

Having international work experience on your resume will never go out of style. This shows adaptability, motivation and determination – three skills that employers and recruiters greatly value. In addition, having international experience will put you at an immediate advantage over other candidates who have never worked abroad.

Expand your professional network

Working abroad is a great opportunity to expand your professional network. The power of a well-developed professional network should not be underestimated. Many job openings are not advertised publicly; instead, they are filled through referrals and professional networking. So make sure you talk to your new colleagues and establish good professional relations with them. You never know where your next job offer can come from.

Have you always dreamed of starting a business? Many of us like the idea of being our own boss, but it can be difficult to find the right business idea to pursue. Check out our top tips for developing an idea that works for you .

In partnership with EURES, the European Job Mobility Portal.

Related links:

Six tips for developing a business idea that works for you

European Job Days

Find EURES Advisers ​

Living and working conditions in EURES countries

EURES Jobs Database

EURES services for employers

EURES Events Calendar

Upcoming Online Events

EURES on Facebook

EURES on Twitter

EURES on LinkedIn

• Living and Working
• Accomodation and food service activities
• Activities of extraterritorial organisations and bodies
• Activities of households as employers, undifferentiated goods- and services
• Administrative and support service activities
• Agriculture, forestry and fishing
• Arts, entertainment and recreation
• Construction
• Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply
• Financial and insurance activities
• Human health and social work activities
• Information and communication
• Manufacturing
• Mining and quarrying
• Other service activities
• Professional, scientific and technical activities
• Public administration and defence; compulsory social security
• Real estate activities
• Transportation and storage
• Water supply, sewerage, waste management and remediation activities
• Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles

Articles are intended to provide users of the EURES portal with information on current topics and trends and to stimulate discussion and debate. Their content does not necessarily reflect the view of the European Labour Authority (ELA) or the European Commission. Furthermore, EURES and ELA do not endorse third party websites mentioned above.

Share this page

Nina Out and About contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See  my Disclosure Policy  for more information.

35 Pros and Cons of Living Abroad 2024 from an Expert

Table of Contents

I first moved abroad without really weighing the pros and cons of living abroad.

I was 16, had an opportunity to move to Italy alone, and took it.

While I ultimately loved the experience, it was ROUGH to say the least. There was a lot of crying on the floor while packing, terrible homesickness, and the general terror that goes into flying halfway around the world back when you didn’t travel with a cellphone and WIFI was almost nonexistent.

But the pros still outweighed the cons.

So I did it again, by moving to a new province. Then to a new country: Scotland .

Scotland was one of the worst adventures of my life.

But I still learned things.

So I came back home and planned to go abroad again.

Soon I’d lived in 8+ countries in less than 10 years!

All that is to say: I’ve lived abroad a lot. While I highly recommend giving it a go, I know it isn’t for everyone.

Check the pros and cons of living abroad that I’ve figured out after a decade of slowmading around the world.

You’ll find out why loving in a foreign country can be the best thing to ever happen to you and why your tongue may hate you for moving abroad.

Overview of the Pros and Cons of Living Abroad

18 pros of moving abroad: advantages of living in another country.

1. Make Lifelong Friends

One of the things I least expected from moving abroad was to make lifelong friends .

I figured I’d meet people who would flit in and out of my life. They’d be proximity friends: like the ones you make as a kid, who you sort of hang out with solely cause they’re nearby, but then you grow up and never see them again.

That was never the case with the friends I made living in another country.

Whether they were locals, other expats, or tourists, the people that I met living abroad have become some of my closest friends.

There’s something about living somewhere new that helps you find your true soulmates (platonically, I mean). You’ll find people with the same interests, sharing incredible experiences.

Those are the friends you’ll have forever.

When I moved back to Toronto, the place I’d grown up and lived for 17 years, I had no friends in the city. Meanwhile, I had besties scattered across New Zealand, the UK, Halifax , and other places in Europe.

👉 Want to make friends around the world? Join Meetups today for free!

2. Learn a New Language

I can say hello in different languages, and I’m menu fluent in a few (aka. I can always order dinner), but I am TERRIBLE at learning languages.

I grew up in Canada where we’re all supposed to be bilingual .

It didn’t stick for me. Even after 10 years of French lessons.

3 years of Spanish lessons didn’t click either.

Meanwhile, I moved to Italy for 4 months and was fluently arguing in the markets within a month!

Moving abroad immerses you in the local language. It becomes a requirement to figure out how to wrap your tongue around the new words so you can get the things you need.

While you may worry about not knowing the language before you visit, it’s much easier to learn it when you’re abroad.

I lived in Berlin for a month and quickly started chatting with locals at Christmas markets.

Unfortunately, once I left, I lost all of my German except for the difference between creme fraiche and sour cream (a mistake I made repeatedly when I lived there).

Gain a new language by moving abroad – it’s a definite advantage to being somewhere new.

👉  Want to learn a new language? I recommend this language learning app!

3. Get a Fresh Start

There’s something to be said for reinventing yourself.

When you move abroad, no one knows you. That gives you a chance to redefine yourself.

I’m not talking about dyeing your hair and changing your name.

It’s more of an opportunity to be your true self, without the hang ups of your past life.

When I left for Italy, I was the shy, goth girl who never spoke in high school. When I returned, I was a bubbly preppy who never stopped talking.

Getting rid of the weight of your past life and the expectations placed on you can help you discover the true you so you can redefine yourself.

4. Try New Food

One of my favourite parts of living abroad was the food.

When I lived in New Zealand , I made it my mission to eat all of the local New Zealand food .

It’s no fun to live in a new place and not embrace the cuisine. Plus, you can learn a lot about a place by its food.

A definite pro of living abroad is the freedom to eat EVERYTHING. I mean, it’s for science, right?? So no one can say anything when you need to try 6 different pavlovas to ensure you really don’t like meringue.

If you can, take a local cooking class – like I did in Morocco and New Zealand – so you can have a unique souvenir from your time abroad to bring home.

I recommend finding a food tour with this company to get started learning about local cuisine!

5. Learn to Adapt

One of the pros of living abroad (that comes with one of the cons) is learning how to adapt.

At home, you get complacent. You know what to expect from life.

When challenges pop up, they’re so much harder to face.

Abroad, everything is new. So when things change, you become much better at going with the flow.

With every new scenario you face, you’ll quickly become more and more adaptable. It’s something you can take with you for the rest of your life as you continue to move to new countries.

6. Boost Your Confidence

There’s nothing braver than living abroad – or so I’ve been told by literally everyone I tell about my experiences as an expat.

Not only does that give you a nice external confidence boost, but moving abroad also internally builds your confidence.

Much like with solo travel , you don’t have anyone else to figure out problems for you. You have to face them head on.

Every challenge you face will help you believe in yourself more and more. Soon, you’ll be taking on travel horror stories with ease!

Even if you aren’t confident before you go (I definitely wasn’t!), you’ll gain it throughout the process of moving abroad. When other challenges face you later in life, you’ll know you can take them on because you moved across the world by yourself!

7. Get New Travel Opportunities

The best advantage of living abroad is the travel opportunities.

Sure, you may be working full time or studying abroad, but there is always time to travel. Even if it is just on weekends or a few holidays here and there.

What’s exciting is that you’re in a new locale. So everything nearby for short trips is completely different!

I visited little blue penguins in Dunedin on a long weekend when I worked in Auckland. On a day off classes, I headed to Stratford-upon-Avon in England.

Every destination you consider moving to will have unique foreign experiences that you can make the most of when you have the time to travel.

8. Personal Growth

I’ve hinted at this a bit with the newfound confidence and adaptability you’ll gain, but personal growth is a huge pro of living abroad .

Putting yourself in a new environment can help you really discover yourself. You’ll gain perspective by taking on challenges you may not have thought you could face. You’ll learn more about the world and figure out your place in it.

I credit living abroad with making me the person I am today.

Before I travelled, I was an anxious wreck of a girl who genuinely didn’t like herself.

Now, I’m a badass woman who thinks she’s fricken awesome!

That never would have happened without moving to a foreign country and having the space to get to know myself.

Track your personal growth in this Empowered Solo Travel Planner – with a great journal section at the end.

9. Every Day is an Adventure

It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut doing the same thing day in and day out.

It’s hard to find joy when you know exactly what’s going to happen next in your day.

Living abroad takes you out of that rut.

Even if you’re working the same job, living your same routine, just being in a new space will completely shake up your day. There will be unique hurdles, fun new experiences, and sometimes annoying changes that will make each day an adventure.

It can also help you shake up that rut so you find a new, more exciting routine.

10. Experience a New Culture

You learn the most about the world by being immersed in it.

Get out of your bubble and discover cultures from other areas of the world. You’ll be able to learn more about the local culture of another place and become more compassionate to other humans.

I never would have learned so much about the Maori people of New Zealand if I hadn’t moved to the country. Sure, I went to a haka festival , but actually working alongside Maori people and getting local perspectives was so much more impactful.

Even non-indigenous peoples will help you gain more perspective.

After living abroad, you’ll have a more expanded worldview.

11. Become More Independent

You may not believe this now, but I was that kid that made her mom order her food.

I’m not talking like as a little kid. I’m talking like well into high school.

I used to think I couldn’t do anything on my own.

Then I moved to Italy , where the lack of adult supervision probably should have been disturbing but actually offered me a chance to discover my independence.

I became the girl who would go on walks alone to find new muses for her stories, who would chat up the local bartender and give him tips on his manuscript, who could order her own damn meal without help!

Since I started solo travelling, I’ve become even more independent.

Now I know what I’m capable of – I mean I moved to New Zealand alone! How hard can ordering my own dinner be after that??

12. Make Unforgettable Memories

Moving abroad, much like travelling in any way, leads to some of the best memories you’ll ever have.

Life is short. Don’t waste it letting every day feel the same.

When you move abroad, an advantage of living in a foreign country is that the little things are exciting again.

Conquering grocery stories in Swedish or navigating the tube in London on your way to work are suddenly exciting. There’s a reason to remember every day.

The ultimate experiences you’ll have will also be one for the travel journal. You’ll be packing it full of unique adventures from your time abroad. Like the locals you went to dinner with or the hot air ballooning experience you tried on the weekend.

I can’t imagine working a 9-to-5 in the same place. I need the memories of adventures to accompany my desk job!

Keep track of your memories in my favourite travel journal !

13. Learn What You Really Need

A con of moving abroad is that you have to pack up everything you need. But the pro is that you learn what you really need!

Let’s be real: no one loves packing for packing’s sake.

But it’s a necessity, especially if you’re going to be moving to live in another country.

Whether you’re going to study abroad, on sabbatical, for a working holiday, or for a permanent move, you’ll need to pack up your belongings.

Sorting through the things you own will help you realize what you actually need.

I donated 12 bags of clothes and other tat after I got back from my year in Europe . After every subsequent move abroad, I’d donate even more.

Soon I was down to an essential two suitcases worth of items that actually mattered to me.

While you may not downsize quite that much, you will get rid of the nonsense that you realize you don’t need. And you’ll learn that you can live with much less than you have.

I recommend using this durable suitcase for your move abroad!

14. Gives You More Opportunities

Moving abroad can be the best option to expand your opportunities.

Some places just aren’t great for work. By moving abroad, you open yourself up to new experiences and new options for employment. They may come with better salaries, more benefits, or a better work-life balance.

One of my favourite parts of working in New Zealand was the extended holiday leave that we don’t get in Canada. I was making more money at an entry level job, getting 6 weeks of paid vacation, and getting to leave my work at the office.

Those benefits definitely outweighed any cons of moving abroad for me.

15. Discover Your Passions

I wouldn’t be a travel blogger full time without living abroad.

I’d have taken the scholarship I got, gone to law school, and probably be having daily panic attacks in a law firm just waiting for retirement.

Living abroad, meeting people who weren’t obsessed with the 9 to 5 traditional life, and trying new things really helped me figure out what I was meant to do.

16. Learn New Languages

Now, I’m not very good with languages, but I’ve always wanted to try and learn a new one.

Learning Spanish has been on my bucket list for years, and it’s something that I’m determined to finally do! When I lived in Spain, I picked it up so much faster.

Same for Italian! During my time living in Italy, I spoke it so easily at the weekly markets or joking with the local bartender.

Now, I can barely get through the pasta section on a menu. Being immersed in the culture makes a massive difference to your language skills.

It’s also so cool to learn new ways to say things either in slang or in the local language. I can say cheers in so many languages now!

17. Nothing Holding You Back

I always struggled to really be myself because so many people back home knew these past versions of my growing up.

To this day, my family still mocks my goth phase or my obsession with vampires.

It’s all fun and games now, but at the time it added a deep layer of frustration whenever I’d try to experiment and adapt.

By leaving behind all the expectations and past versions of myself physically, I was able to find myself abroad.

18. Network Across Borders

Some people worry when they live abroad, even for a short period of time, that they’re losing their connections or going to get behind their peers in work.

I’ve found the opposite!

You can make amazing connections with people abroad. That’s landed me free places to stay, amazing work opportunities, and more options than I ever would have had if I just stayed in Toronto.

Even just speaking with people at the bar of a restaurant or in a hostel can help you meet amazing people who can change your career path entirely.

17 Cons of Moving Abroad: Disadvantages of Living in Another Country

19. language barrier.

Languages can be a challenge.

If you move to a country where you don’t speak the language, you can learn it in time.

Unfortunately, if business is conducted in this language, you’ll have a hard time finding a job.

I could never live in France because after taking 12 years of French lessons, I can still only say about three words in French. Although they do business in English, many companies won’t hire people that cannot speak a little bit of French.

It’s important to research the language requirements for work before you move to a foreign country.

👉  Want to learn a new language? I recommend this language learning app!

20. Culture Shock

Not every place is the same.

Moving abroad can lead to serious culture shock – a major con of living abroad.

You’ll be all excited for this new experience, then arrive and BOOM, everything is so different. You’ll have to adapt to new office dynamics, different ways of shopping, and different social dynamics in public.

When I moved to Halifax , I had to become 40x friendlier just to get by. They literally say hi to everyone on the street there!

When I visited Toronto after and tried to say hi to people, they genuinely thought I was crazy and would cross the street to avoid me.

While culture shock can be overcome, it throws a lot of expats for a loop. They expect to love the experience immediately, then struggle when they find all of these little challenges they didn’t expect.

21. Homesickness

One of the biggest cons of living abroad is dealing with homesickness.

Even after my fifth time moving to a new country, I would still occasionally get homesick for Canada – a place I didn’t even really consider home anymore.

I made the first time solo traveller mistake of trying to reduce my homesickness so I felt it less. But that didn’t help.

It nearly made me return from Glasgow numerous times, even though I didn’t know what I’d be returning too.

Now, I realize that homesickness is just me missing a particular thing.

Sometimes it can be remedied by cooking a familiar meal. Other times I need to call my family. Occasionally, I just need a good cry because something else is bothering me.

Whatever it is, homesickness is completely liveable.

Besides, as my mom always says, “if you hate it, you can just go home”.

22. Moving is Expensive

Moving is always expensive. I moved from Toronto to Ottawa and just getting a bedframe and desk out here cost over $600 CAD.

Now imagine the cost of moving that stuff to a foreign country!

But there are other costs too: Visa fees, plane tickets, shipping, medical tests, and new items you’ll need to buy.

Moving abroad isn’t always the cheapest option, but it can be done without breaking the bank.

It’s up to you to decide if you’re going to bring a ton of things with you, or if you’re ok to travel light. Would you prefer a large house or are you alright in an apartment or sharing a flat?

Ultimately, you’ll have to make the choice of how much you’re willing to spend.

I’ve managed to move to 5 countries and the only time I lost money on the venture was when I studied abroad and had no income. Even then, I don’t see it as “losing” money, as the experience was definitely worth it.

23. There’s A Lot of Paperwork

Ugh paperwork is a definite disadvantage of living abroad!

It’s one of the things I hate most in life.

When you move abroad, there is going to be paperwork.

You’ll need Visas, work permits, plane tickets, insurance, proof of medical clearance, and more depending on the country you’re going to. If you thought opening a bank account, getting a house, and getting a tax number were hard at home, wait till you have to do it in a totally foreign country.

The bureaucracy of moving abroad is definitely a disadvantage. Luckily, it’s usually a one-time thing (or at most only once a year).

Opening a bank account is so much EASIER by creating a free multi-currency account here.

24. You’ll Be an Outsider

A lot of people fear being an outsider.

When you move to a foreign country, you may be the only English-speaking person or the only person from your nation.

It can make you stand out.

Personally, I love being the only Canadian in the room. That’s partially cause I can play pranks on people – like telling them we eat Beavertails (which we do, just not the ones you’re thinking of!).

But it can be hard for people who don’t want to stick out.

I recommend finding a group of expats to hang out with and trying to make some local friends.

25. Loneliness

People really fear loneliness.

Whether it’s solo travellers worried about loneliness or expats fearing the isolation of being abroad, humans are not solitary creatures so we worry about being alone.

I won’t lie: it can be very lonely to move abroad.

When I moved to Glasgow, I didn’t try to make any friends. I went to my two classes, then went home and hid in bed from my anxious thoughts.

I blamed Glasgow for my loneliness, when in truth it was my own fault.

Years later when I returned to the UK to live in Oxford, I didn’t make my same mistakes. Namely, I didn’t:

• Stay in my room alone
• Not join clubs
• Only do solitary activities
• Blamed my loneliness for my poor mood, then didn’t go out from my poor mood, and kept the cycle going
• Refuse to try to speak to people for small daily interactions, like a barista at a coffee shop
• Only socialize with people back home
• Try to stay on Canada-time so I could talk to my friends at home, thereby making days even more challenging in the UK

Don’t make these mistakes and you won’t be lonely!

It only takes 1% of effort to meet people.

26. Your Favourite Things May Not Be Available

If you have comfort foods, routines you love, or activities that you do weekly, moving abroad can be hard. Those familiar things that comfort you may not be available.

In New Zealand, I couldn’t get any of the junk food I was used to in Canada (which turned out to be a great thing, because theirs are way better). When I was having a rough time and I just wanted something familiar, it was hard to not have access to it.

Sometimes I struggle because pumpkin pie is one of my favourite desserts, but outside of North America, it’s impossible to get. So I had to make it from scratch – inevitably causing a pumpkin massacre and a flambe nightmare in a dorm oven.

If you know there are things that really matter to you, pack some along. Otherwise, look forward to having them as a treat when you visit or in a care package from home.

And then get excited to find some new favourites!

27. Tax Implications

Taxes are a con everywhere. They suck to figure out. No one enjoys the paperwork or the stress.

Working abroad means learning a whole new system of taxes to challenge you.

I got lucky in New Zealand – a country with the easiest tax system in the world, as voted by expats. But many countries don’t have it so easy.

You’ll have to file in two countries as well for your first year, when you’ll have some income in both places.

I recommend getting a tax accountant your first year, if not for the entirety of your time as an expat. It’ll make things a lot easier and will ensure that it’s all set up correctly.

Or move to New Zealand, where it’s a breeze!

28. It’s Difficult to Become a Citizen

Many countries are happy to let in Working Holiday Visa holders or give out temporary work permits. But becoming a citizen can be much more challenging.

There’s a reason so many people get married for green cards!

When I was considering moving to the UK, I checked and I’d need to stay in the country for at least 5 years before I could even begin to apply. That meant 5 years of needing to scrounge Visas from companies who would sponsor me, or paying the expensive application fee myself if the company wouldn’t.

It didn’t even assure me a place for more than a year at a time.

If your ultimate goal is citizenship, you’ll need to be more thoughtful about the types of Visas you use and what type of work you have.

Pro tip : Government jobs are always best for getting your Visas sponsored.

29. Hard to Find a Job Before You Arrive

When I moved to New Zealand, I was so sure that I was hot shit.

I thought I’d get a job instantly.

Instead, I arrived a week before the country closed for Christmas . So I had to wait 6 weeks before I could even consider finding a job.

Although I could afford to wait the 6 weeks, I got super nervous and freaked out about my finances to my whole family.

Thankfully, I got a job soon after.

But that situation happens to many people who aren’t in my situation.

With a Working Holiday Visa , I could show up without a job. Many work visas don’t let you even apply until you have proof of employment.

This might mean accepting a lower position or a position that’s not quite your dream job just to get in the door.

30. New Social Rules to Adapt To

Every country has taboos and social conventions.

But you may not expect them before you arrive.

For example, in Canada, you have to say “please” and “thank you” constantly. And get used to everyone saying “eh” at the end of sentences.

In Morocco, women can’t look men in the eyes or it’s a sign of flirtation.

The social norms can vary from place to place. Expats are often unsure of what’s acceptable and will make some mistakes.

It’s totally fine to slip up, but you will be expected to learn as you go.

I recommend chatting with a local as soon as possible to ask about what you should avoid doing so you don’t offend anyone.

31. Currency Fluctuation

When you move abroad, you have to transfer money – at least to get you started.

Transfering money can be great if you’re going to a country where the currency is worth less. That means more money when you transfer $1 and it becomes $1.50!

But, while you’re there, the currency can fluctuate. You may come back to your home country and find that hard earned money is worth $0.75 rather than the $1 you thought it would be. Or it could be even less than you expected when the markets dip.

I loved going to New Zealand, because I got a few extra cents for every dollar.

But on the way back, my savings were quickly chopped below $0.50 for every $1 when I moved to the UK.

Send your money abroad at the cheapest rates with Wise.com !

32. Packing Sucks

Packing sucks.

There I said it.

It’s the bane of my existence – even though I’m really good at it now.

Packing for long-term trips is especially challenging.

Whether you’re going forever or just for a year, packing is a definite disadvantage of moving abroad.

My advice is to take as little as possible.

You really don’t need that much.

I moved to New Zealand with 10 shirts! In the end, I wish I’d only brought 8.

Make packing easier by pre-ordering all your moving supplies here.

33. Pressure to Do Everything

When you move, it kinda feels like travelling at first.

So you try to do everything all at once – work and travel. That’s exhausting!

You might catch yourself trying to book trips every weekend and go out every single day after work. But that’s just not feasible.

You need to take breaks, chill in the backyard or have a lazy day on the couch.

Otherwise you’ll burn out.

34. Need New Clothes

Different climates might mean a whole new wardrobe – yet another expense for people moving abroad.

Living in a foreign country will suck if you’re shivering for half the year.

But finding the time and money to go buy the stuff, also isn’t fun.

In New Zealand, it took me a couple months before I finally had the energy and the money to get a winter coat (admittedly, I was broke at the time).

If you move around as often as I do, it can suck needing so many different items in so many different places.

35. Allergies and Unexpected Illness

Your body is used to one place. When you move, it suddenly has all sorts of new germs and environmental factors to contend with.

When I moved to Serbia, I unlocked allergies I didn’t even know lurked beneath the surface and needed to get prescription level allergy meds.

Meanwhile, in New Zealand, I barely ever sneezed.

But I found out I’m allergic to their sand flies.

Between that and unexpected reactions to elevation, humidity, etc, you can’t really be sure how your body will aclimatize to your new area and its seasons.

Transfer Money to Canada

Moving abroad requires a lot of steps. One of the biggest ones is sending over money so you can start your life here.

I used to use outdated bank transfers and Paypal, which meant paying HUGE fees and inflated exchange rates. I’d often lose thousands just trying to move my own money.

Then I found Wise.com.

I use them exclusively now to send my money around the world. Whether I’m moving to a new country, taking a gap year, or studying abroad, I’ve relied on Wise.com to transfer my money for the lowest rates.

If you’re skeptical, they even have a tool that will compare their service fees and exchange rates with other providers to prove that they are saving you the most money.

Sign up today to start moving your money to live abroad securely and without ridiculous added fees.

👉  Transfering money abroad? Use Wise.com for the best rates!

Get Travel Insurance

No one wants things to go wrong when they move abroad, but sometimes accidents happen.

When things don’t go to plan, have Safety Wing on your side. You don’t need the added stress of dealing with medical bills, lost luggage, or delayed flights when things are going awry. You need a travel insurance provider you can trust to get you through the stress and be accessible 24/7.

Whether you need short-term, long-term or budget-friendly coverage, Safety Wing has your back.

I’ve always been able to rely on them when I’m sick abroad, have had flight cancellations, or had something lost/stolen (these things do happen!).

👉 Find out how much it costs to protect your trip today with Safety Wing travel insurance.

Make Friends Abroad

Are you worried about being lonely while living in a foreign country? Or don’t know how to meet some locals who do things you do?

Thank god for the internet!

Now you don’t have to bother hunting down flyers in a coffee shop.

Join Meetup to find tons of events hosted by locals and expats alike.

Whether your hobbies include hiking, crafting, comedy nights, or board games, you’ll find a Meetup group that’s perfect for you. If one doesn’t already exist, you can even start your own to find some friends with similar interests.

It’s free to join – although some activities cost money, like going bowling or joining a cooking class. You’ll meet tons of people looking for new friends who enjoy the same activities as you.

The events, especially hiking or cultural events, can also be a great way to find hidden travel gems. I never would have discovered some of my 10 Best Auckland Day Trips without the help of my hiking Meetups group.

FAQs About Moving Abroad

How to move to another country.

There are unique requirements for each country that you’ll have to research. I recommend doing the following: -Check if your job has other offices -Or pick a dream destination -Check their visa work requirements -Start preparing your documents, including having a valid passport -Look into getting a bank account, getting a tax number, and finding a place to live -Decide if you’re going to retain your items at home -Just do it! The hardest part of moving abroad is deciding to do it. The rest is all administrative junk!

Should You Move Abroad?

In my opinion, everyone should live abroad at least once. There are so many advantages that outweigh the disadvantages of moving to another country. You’ll come back a better version of yourself – if you decide to come back at all! Moving abroad helped me shake off the shackles of the person I was trying to be to please everyone else. It helped me find out who I really am, what I really want, and how to live my life for me. Whether you move abroad to study, work, or just hang out for a while, I think it’s a must-do for everyone.

Is Living Overseas Right for You?

It’s hard to tell if living in another country will be right for you until you do it. If you’d asked anyone if it was right for me before I moved to Italy or Scotland, you’d probably get a resounding “no!”. I think moving abroad is one of those things no one can ever really be ready for. You just have to dive in and give it a shot. Worst case, you hate it and you can come home. Best case, you love it! I’d take those odds, and I’m not even a betting woman.

Reasons Not to Move Abroad

• The location is dangerous/in a war
• You need specialized healthcare that you can only get in your country
• It’s scary (but is that really a reason??)
• Your work won’t let you (… sounds like a bad job to me!)
• You can’t speak the language ( get some classes going or pick another country!)
• You worry what people will think (psh, the only opinion that matters is yours. Do you think your 80 year old self would regret not going? Then go!)
• You can’t afford it (not an excuse! I saved enough to live in Europe for a year within 2 months. You can do it, too!)
• I have kids (I know soooo many people who have kids and move abroad. I think it’s great for them!)
• I have pets (pets can move , too! Just research vaccinations)
• I don’t want to (this is the only valid reason I can think of to not move abroad)

Wrap Up of Living Abroad

Have you always wanted to live in another country? Have you just been worried about the pros and cons of moving abroad?

Now you know the highs and lows from someone who has moved abroad almost every year for a decade!

Don’t let fear hold you back from living your dream.

Move abroad so you can live in the Italian countryside drinking wine as you remote work, or find a cool foreign office in Ireland so you can explore the Cliffs of Dover on your weekend off.

Live the life you want to live today. Don’t wait for some potential tomorrow that may never come.

Your next task is to start googling some places you want to live (or creating a dream Pinterest board ). Get that inspiration going and you’ll be living in a foreign country in no time!

When you’re ready to visit Singapore, find the cheapest flights with this tool.

Benefits of Living Abroad?

There are many benefits to living abroad, including the opportunity to learn about new cultures, customs and languages.

Additionally, living abroad can also lead to better job prospects and improved lifestyle choices.

Finally, by living in a foreign country you will have the chance to meet new people and make lifelong friends.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Living Abroad?

One advantage of living abroad is that you have the opportunity to learn about new cultures and customs. Additionally, living abroad can also lead to better job prospects and improved lifestyle choices. However, there are also some disadvantages to living abroad, such as feeling homesick or isolated from your friends and family. It can also be challenging to find work without local work experience.

What are the possible effects of moving to another country?

The possible effects of moving to another country are both positive a

nd negative. Positive effects can include things such as learning a new language, experiencing different cultures, and developing new skills. Negative effects can include things such as culture shock, homesickness, and feeling isolated. It is important to research a potential destination country carefully before making the decision to move in order to be prepared for both the good and the bad.

Disadvantages of living in a foreign county?

There are several disadvantages of living in a foreign county. They include: feeling homesick or isolated, challenges in finding work, and adjusting to a new culture. Additionally, there may be language barriers and you may not have access to the same level of medical care as you would in your home country.

Advantages and disadvantages of living and working in a foreign country?

There are many advantages and disadvantages of living and working in a foreign country. Some of the advantages include:

1) You get to experience a new culture and way of life.

2) You get to meet new people from all over the world.

3) You get to learn a new language.

And some disadvantages may include:

1) You may not be able to find a job that pays as well as you would like.

2) You may not be able to find a place to live that is as comfortable as you would like.

3) You may not be able to get the same type of medical care that you are used to.

Advantages of living in a foreign country?

There are many advantages to living in a foreign country. One advantage is that you get to experience a new culture and way of life. This can be very exciting and enriching. Another advantage is that you get to meet new people and make new friends. This can be a great way to broaden your social horizons. Finally, living in a foreign country can be a great way to learn a new language. This can be very beneficial both professionally and personally.

Should I move to another country?

This is a difficult question to answer. There are many factors to consider, such as your current situation, your desired situation, and the pros and cons of living in a foreign country.

Some people find that moving to another country is a great way to improve their life, while others find it to be disruptive and difficult.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to move to another country is a personal one that depends on your specific circumstances.

Benefits of moving to another country?

There are many potential benefits of moving to another country. One benefit is that you can learn about new cultures and customs. Additionally, living abroad can also lead to better job prospects and improved lifestyle choices. Finally, by living in a foreign country you will have the chance to meet new people and make lifelong friends.

Advantages of foreign employment?

There are many advantages to foreign employment, including the opportunity to:

1. Earn a higher salary than you would at home.

2. Enjoy a better standard of living, with access to nicer homes and better schools.

3. Experience new cultures and lifestyles.

4. Learn new languages and gain valuable international contacts

Challenges of living abroad?

There are several challenges that come with living abroad, such as:

1. Culture shock – This can be a big adjustment, and it may take some time to get used to the new culture.

2. Language barriers – If you don’t speak the language of your host country, it can be difficult to communicate with people and make friends.

3. Homesickness – It’s common to miss your family and friends back home, and you may find yourself feeling isolated in your new country.

4. Financial difficulties – Living in a foreign country can be expensive, especially if you’re not employed.

5. Adjusting to a new way of life – There can be a big difference between the lifestyle in your home country and the lifestyle in your host country, which can take some time to get used to.

What are the disadvantages of living abroad?

There are a few potential disadvantages to living abroad that you should be aware of before making the decision to move. These include:

1. Language barriers can make everyday life difficult

2. You may feel isolated and homesick

3. Cost of living can be expensive in some countries

4. Different customs and cultures can be challenging to adjust to

5. You may have trouble finding a job

6. Your family and friends may be far away

Difficulties of living in a foreign country?

It’s not always easy to adjust to living in a new country, especially if you don’t speak the language. Here are some of the difficulties you might face:

1. Not being able to communicate effectively can be frustrating and make everyday tasks like shopping or going to the doctor very difficult.

2. You may feel isolated and lonely if you don’t have any friends or family in the country.

3. It can be hard to find housing and jobs in a new country.

4. You may miss your home and the familiar things about it, like the food, the climate, and the people.

Is Living abroad beneficial?

Yes, living abroad can be very beneficial! It can help you learn new things, meet new people, and see the world from a different perspective. However, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that come with living in a new country. If you’re thinking of moving to another country, make sure you do your research so that you know what to expect.

Is living abroad worth it?

Yes, living abroad is definitely worth it! There are so many benefits to living in a new country that you simply can’t experience by staying at home. For one thing, you’ll get to learn about a new culture and meet lots of new people. You’ll also have the opportunity to travel and see new places. And of course, living in a new country can also be a great way to learn a new language. So if you’re thinking about living abroad, don’t hesitate – it’s definitely worth it!

Negative effects of living abroad?

There are a few potential negative effects of living abroad that you should be aware of before making the decision to move. These include:

3. The cost of living can be expensive in some countries

4. Different customs and cultures can be challenging

Benefits of living in different countries?

There are many benefits to living in different countries. One benefit is that you get to experience different cultures. Another benefit is that you learn new things. And finally, it can be a great way to meet new people.

I learned more about history, religion, and even science living abroad than I ever did in a classroom!

Pros and cons of living in Europe vs. America?

There are both pros and cons to living in Europe vs. America. Some of the pros of living in Europe include:

1. The cost of living is often cheaper than in America.

2. There is more history and culture to experience.

3. The healthcare system is typically better than in America.

4. The food is often healthier and more diverse.

5. You can travel to other countries more easily.

Some of the cons of living in Europe include:

1. The weather can be colder and wetter than in America.

2. There are often language barriers.

3. European countries can be less accepting of immigrants than America.

4. There is often more crime and violence in European countries.

5. The economy can be weaker in some European countries.

Is moving abroad a good idea?

There’s no easy answer to this question – it depends on your specific situation and what you’re looking for in life. However, there are some general things to keep in mind that might help you make your decision.

For starters, living in a foreign country can be an incredibly enriching experience. It allows you to learn about new cultures, customs, and ways of life.

Of course, there are also some challenges that come along with moving to a new country. It can be difficult to adjust to a new culture and way of life, and you may miss your family and friends back home.

So, ultimately, the decision of whether or not to move abroad is a personal one that depends on your own circumstances. If you’re looking for an adventure and are open to new experiences, then moving abroad may be a good option for you. However, if you’re more comfortable with the familiar, then staying put may be a better idea.

Can I move to another county?

Yes, everyone is capable of moving to another country.

The real question is which country should I you move to?

There are many things to consider when making such a decision, including your job, finances, family, and lifestyle.

Some people move to another country for work or to be closer to family. Others do so to retire in a warmer climate or to escape political unrest.

Before you make the decision to move, it’s important to do your research.

Bank abroad pros and cons?

There are both pros and cons to banking abroad.

On the plus side, banking in a foreign country can give you access to a wider range of financial products and services. It can also help you diversify your investments and protect your assets from political or economic instability in your home country.

On the downside, however, banking abroad can be expensive and complicated. You may also have to deal with language barriers and different time zones.

Ultimately, whether or not banking abroad is a good idea for you depends on your individual circumstances. If you’re comfortable with the risks and costs involved, then it could be a good way to diversify your finances.

Overall, it is complex to set up foreign banks.

Is moving abroad worth it?

Yes, moving abroad is worth it! It can be a great way to learn new things, meet new people, and experience different cultures. It can also be a great way to broaden your horizons and see the world from a new perspective.

What happens when you move to another country?

When you move to another country, you’ll have to deal with a lot of paperwork and red tape. You’ll also have to get used to a new culture and way of life. There may be some bumps along the road, but overall, moving abroad can be a great experience.

To start, you’ll need to find a visa that allows you to stay in the country for an extended period of time. You’ll also need to find a place to live and a job. Once you’ve settled in, you can start exploring your new home and getting to know the people and culture.

Related Posts:

• Benefits of Travelling Alone: 20 Pros and Cons of Solo Travel
• 14 Pros and Cons of Living in France
• 25 Pros and Cons of Living in New Zealand
• 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Canada
• How to Move to New Zealand with a Working Holiday Visa
• 8 Things I Learned From 8 Months in Europe

Pin this for later!

Living Abroad Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy expat travel insurance?

100% YES!  — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Safety Wing!

🌎 What is the best country to live in as an expat?

It depends – the best country to live in as an expat will depend on your unique needs. I developed this free quiz to help you figure out where is right for you!

📍 How do I pick a country to live abroad?

It depends – picking a country to live in is hard. That’s why I developed this $7 course to share all of the steps I’ve taken when deciding to move to 20+ different countries, and how I handle homesickness when I get there.

Ultimately, making the choice of where to move is going to be hard. But the hardest thing is deciding to move abroad at all!

💼 How do I get a job as an expat?

You can find work abroad via local job boards or temp agencies. My favourite way to work is remotely, so I always look for jobs on FlexJobs.com when I live abroad. They hire for 100% remote roles only.

If you’re looking to teach English abroad, Premier TEFL has the best online course to get you great work!

💰 How do I open a bank account abroad?

Wise.com offers free global accounts, and the cheapest money transfers. Since it can be a headache to open bank accounts in different countries (it took me 2 months in the UK!), Wise.com is a great solution.

I actually use it as my primary bank now worldwide due to the multi-currency debit card. ( Read more )

👯‍♀️ How do you make friends abroad?

Meetup.com – Meet likeminded people who share a similar hobby with Meetup! It’s free to join, but some activities may cost money, like if you go to a cafe and get a coffee.

🙀 I don’t speak the language. Can I still live abroad?

Learn languages in no time with iTalki ! Moving abroad is an opportunity to learn the language. You don’t need to know it before you leave home.

💻 Do I need a VPN?

Yes! – VPNs allow you to access more of the internet. From US Netflix in the UK to social media sites banned in Asia. It’s a really helpful and cheap thing to ensure your online activities aren’t restricted.

🧳 What’s the best luggage for living abroad?

This is my favourite luggage set f or long term travel. You can read more about my review of types of suitcases for travel here .

🏡 How do I tell my friends and family I want to live abroad?

Take this $7 course and learn the exact script I used to tell my family I was moving abroad … and then when I did it again. I even include tips for prepping your family, and for how to handle family who aren’t supportive.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?

To find cheap flights, I recommend  Skyscanner . ( Read more )

🏨  What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?

To find cheap hotels, I recommend  Booking.com . ( Read more )

Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!

🚗  What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?

To find cheap rental cars, I recommend  Discover Cars .

🚗  What’s the best site to find tours?

To find epic tours, I recommend  Viator .

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

Want to move abroad, but don’t know how to start?

Get an expert’s tips & tricks, pick which country to move to – and do it.

In a world so connected by technology, distances may seem smaller than they did a few decades ago. Moving to a different country or even a different continent is something that is becoming increasingly common, especially amongst younger generations. This may be for study , for work or just for leisure. However, such a big move is usually not all roses, so we put together a list of the pros and cons of living abroad .

What are the advantages and disadvantages of living abroad?

Moving to a foreign country is the most intense way of getting to know a different culture. It is an immersive experience where you step out of the comfort zone of your home and dive into new customs, habits and language. It might sound overwhelming at first, so let’s start with the best things this experience overseas might bring.

Are you going for Erasmus? You may be interested in the following articles:

• 10 benefits of Erasmus
• Ultimate Erasmus guide – PDF

Pros of living abroad

Explore a different culture.

When moving to a foreign country, you will most likely be inserted in a place that is culturally very different from what you are used to. This can be seen in several ways: the architecture of the buildings, the way that people interact with each other or even social gatherings. Enjoy this opportunity to really get to know and embrace this new environment with all it has to offer.

Meet new people

Even though in the beginning it may seem difficult to make new friends, this is one of the greatest advantages of living abroad. While at home, it is easy to often find yourself surrounded by likeminded people (and there is nothing wrong about that), moving to a different country is the perfect opportunity to open up your mind and talk to people who have different ideas and life stories.

Try using this experience abroad to connect with locals and other expats. Taking gym classes, signing up for events of the student union or hanging out with co-workers are great ways of getting started. Maybe, in the end, you will end up having friends from all over the world.

Gather a collection of travel stories

It is easy to fall into a routine while being at home. Study, work, groceries, workout. The excitement of trying new things and exploring new places might be saved just for vacations or holidays.

However, when you move to a foreign country where everything is new… that is when the magic happens. Even the simplest tasks can be exciting. Try a local dish, hop on a bus to visit the next city or book a weekend trip to somewhere you have never been before.

Building up your soft skills

Having experience of living abroad can be very useful when looking for a job. Most companies value international experiences, even if they were for leisure or study. When a person steps out of their comfort zone and moves to another country, there is always an improvement in their communication skills, social skills and networking. You also learn how to relate to people from different cultural backgrounds and respect divergent opinions. These are all highly valuable attributes in a work environment.

Moving and relocating services

Here at Eurosender, we know the process of moving to a foreign country can be very overwhelming. We have helped over 10.000 people to relocate across Europe, and every shipper has agreed that the number one concern and priority when relocating is the safety of the goods. Therefore, we have gathered and created a vast network of the best logistics providers that will ensure your belongings will arrive securely at your final destination. Book a transport service that will only be dedicated to you and your load, and receive all the parcels at once. Book with Eurosender, and allow our logistics specialists to help you throughout the moving process. Move to your new and yet unknown environment, but have a well-known and renowned logistics company to take care of what you greatly value.

Check our relocation guides for more information.

Cons of living abroad

When someone moves to a new country, the first few months can be considered as an adaptation period. This is when people face most of the challenges of living abroad. In order to help with the transition, here are a few tips on how to make the best of each situation.

Dealing with a culture shock

Some people might have a culture shock when being immersed in a completely different country. It takes some time to get used to such a new environment, but some take it easier than others. The best thing to do when you feel culture shock while living abroad is to try to connect with things that make you feel comfortable. Great ideas for doing so is to cook a homemade recipe, practice sports or read your favourite book.

Bureaucracy when living abroad

Finding a new apartment, negotiating a rental agreement, setting up a bank account and arranging health insurance are some of the bureaucratic steps everyone needs to go through when moving abroad. It might be stressful, but these are usually done only once. To make the transition smoother, you can study online about these procedures in your new country or try to get in contact with other expats who have been through the same.

Financial challenges of living abroad

Finances is always a big topic when it comes to the disadvantages of living abroad, especially for people who move to a new country for work purposes. After moving, you need to become familiar with a totally new financial system. Some things to be aware of are currency conversions (if applicable), how the tax system works and what paperwork you need to arrange.

Feeling like the “new kid on the block”

It might take a while until you make life-long friends in your new country. Relationships are built with time and there are some cultures where people are more private than others. Even though this is completely normal, some might end up feeling lonely or homesick. The best way to avoid this is to get involved in classes, courses or activities where you can socialize and have fun.

Figuring out how to deal with homesickness

Homesickness is something everyone living abroad feels every now and then. It might be because you miss your friends, your family or that special homecooked meal. Unfortunately, it is something each of us feels differently and, therefore, there is no secret formula on how to deal with homesickness.

A good idea is trying to find little things that remind you of home and insert them into your routine. Here are a few suggestions: do weekly video chats with your family, create a blog where you share about your new life so they can easily keep in touch or ask for your grandmother for that special cake recipe so you can make it yourself.

Overall, living abroad is a very rewarding experience and you will come back to your loved ones filled with new adventures and stories to tell.

Here at Eurosender, we know the process of moving to a foreign country can be very overwhelming. Let us make it easier by helping you with the logistics involved in the move. Use our platform to book the cheapest and fastest shipping option for your big experience.

• College Study Abroad
• College Study Abroad Blog

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad?

January 26, 2023

Authored By:

@cieestudyabroad These are the pros and cons of studying abroad! #cieestudyabroad #studyabroad #studyabroadadvice #studyabroadprograms #wheretostudyabroad #howtostudyabroad #college Sunshine - WIRA

Studying abroad is a big decision. On one hand, it’s a life-changing opportunity that only comes around during your college years. On the other hand, it can feel like a total leap of faith. 

If you’re on the fence about taking the next step with CIEE Study Abroad, keep reading! W e’ve created the ultimate list of the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad . Why? So, you can make an informed decision about whether studying abroad is the right choice for YOU.  

EXPLORE CIEE PROGRAMS

Read More: Is Studying Abroad Worth It? 10 Outcomes of Studying Abroad  

The Pros  of Study Abroad

Studying abroad opens the door to a world of new possibilities. We couldn't be more passionate about that. The benefits of living and learning in a new culture will impact all parts of your life, from the day you enroll to every day thereafter.  

You will be surprised at the impact this one experience will have on you. And you will be so glad you took that leap of faith, after all. 

The Top Advantages of Studying Abroad  

As you weigh the pros of studying abroad, add these to your list:  

1. You will learn to think more broadly.    

By immersing yourself in a new culture, you will be exposed to a new language, new perspectives, foreign foods, and life-changing experiences. All of this will change the way you see the world and your role in it. 

2. You will make lifelong connections.    

By sharing new experiences, you can’t help but connect deeply with other students in your cohort and at your partner institutions. And trust us, you will share many new experiences while studying abroad. These are the kind of friendships that last a lifetime. 

3. You will gain a competitive edge.    

Ninety-seven percent of students who study abroad find employment within 12 months of graduation and 25 percent earn higher salaries than their peers. How’s that for standing out in today’s competitive job market?  

Bonus : You can even boost your resume by gaining real-world experience through a global internship ! We offer full- and part-time international internship opportunities across a wide variety of industries. So, if it’s a competitive edge you want, then a competitive edge is exactly what you’ll get. 

4. You will build your language skills.    

Whether your goal is to master a new language or just get by with a conversational understanding of the local language, studying abroad will help you do it. There is nothing quite like cultural immersion for optimal language learning.  

Do note , however, that most CIEE programs are delivered in English unless you’re in a language class or program for advanced speakers.  

5. You will step out of your comfort zone.    

Trying new things helps you learn how to adapt to new situations. A key life skill for our rapidly changing world.  

Just think, you will be working with new professors, new peers, a new currency, a new language, a new transit system, new food, and more – you get the idea. And just know, CIEE will be there to support you every step of the way, 24/7. Our program is a truly great way to safely take that leap of faith. 

6. You will be better for it.    

We hear it all the time : “study abroad changed my life.” And it’s so true. Studying abroad teaches you leadership, cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and so much more. Mark this down as a key advantage to studying abroad.  

The Cons  of Study Abroad

Charting new territory is not in everyone’s comfort zone. And studying abroad, for many students, is definitely classified as uncharted territory. We know the unknown can be intimidating, and we also know studying abroad comes with a bit of sacrifice.  

This is why we’re sharing some of the disadvantages of studying abroad. So you can make the most informed decision possible.  

The Main Disadvantages of Studying Abroad  

Here are the cons of studying abroad you should address when weighing your decision:  

1. Studying abroad can be expensive.    

It can be . But there are scholarships and grants available to help you make studying abroad a reality . Your college or university may offer their own scholarship and grant options. Others you can apply for at CIEE directly in your CIEE Study Abroad application . We offer millions each year for students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, or who’ve enrolled in specific programs as well.  

On average, a semester with CIEE costs $18,861 . A little less when studying abroad in Latin America ($17,291) . A little more when heading to Europe ($19,968) .   

Our Open Campus Block program option, in which you can choose one, two, or three consecutive six-week study abroad sessions, costs about $18,750 but drops significantly to a little over $6,000 for students who choose to pursue only one block (6 weeks) or about $12,000 for two blocks (12 weeks).  

Bear in mind, too, that CIEE tuition provides a high level of student support. Not every program can say the same. Our program fee covers most of the essentials, outside of airfare and meals, and typically includes: 

• Tuition  
• Housing  
• Pre-departure advising  
• Orientation  
• On-site staff + 24/7 emergency on-site support  
• Cultural + co-curricular activities  
• Travel protection  

Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in 2023?  

2. There will be language barriers.   

Even for the most advanced speakers, immersion into a new culture will stretch your language capabilities. We see that as a really good thing. And we believe that if you go abroad with us, you will, too.  

But there’s no getting around the fact that there will be a steep language learning curve as you make your way through the program. We bet you’re up for the challenge. Plus, most of our classes are taught in English, so you will still make big gains academically. 

3. You may experience culture shock.   

The food will be different. The language will be different. The architecture will be different. The style of communication will be different. The local customs and social norms will be different, too. You will have to adjust. But isn’t that at least some of the point? You will return home with a new perspective! 

4. You might get homesick.  

Most of our students are traveling for the first time without their family or friends. And that’s a huge step.   

Just know that CIEE offers a ton of support, including around-the-clock on-site staff. So, we’re always available. Plus, you’ll have a cohort of new friends to keep you company when those homesick feeling begin creeping up.  

And remember , you can always call home when you need to hear a familiar voice. Our students love to FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, and so on to virtually connect with their loved ones whenever they want. 

5. Re-integration can be hard.    

This is an adjustment most students don’t anticipate.   

Often, when the study abroad experience is really great and there’s a ton of personal growth, students have a hard time adjusting back into their typical routine back home. You may experience this, too. It’s a sort of homesickness for the study abroad culture.  

Just know it will get better once you’ve had time to adjust to your routine again. And, for those who just can’t shake the feeling, there’s the opportunity to apply to join CIEE’s Student Ambassador Program to get paid to talk about your study abroad experience! 

Learn More: Become a CIEE Student Ambassador  

The Choice is Yours  

Thinking through the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad is an important first step in your study abroad experience. If you have any questions or want to talk through your personal list of studying abroad pros and cons, we ’re happy to connect .   

In the meantime, check out t he 170+ incredible programs we have to offer to begin planning your perfect study abroad experience! 

GET STARTED  

• Activities & Excursions
• Foreign Language
• Scholarships

© 2024 CIEE. All Rights Reserved.

• Privacy Notice
• Terms & Conditions

Popular Searches

• Work Overseas

10 Benefits of Working Abroad: A Life-Changing Experience

Updated On Oct 13, 2023

Share on Whatsapp

Share on Email

Share on Linkedin

Table of Contents [ Show ]

• Personal growth
• Career development
• Cultural immersion
• Language learning
• Increased competitiveness
• Better exposure
• Perspectives
• Global opportunities

Working abroad can be a valuable and enriching experience for many people. It offers a wide range of benefits, including personal growth, career development, and cultural immersion. In this article, we will explore 10 benefits of working abroad.

Top 10 advantages of working abroad

Some people worry about the potential financial and social repercussions of working abroad. Others have no doubts about taking a job in another country because they enjoy travel, foreign cultures, or a chance to make more money at work. However you look at it, there are many benefits of working or doing business abroad .

So let's see what are the benefits of working abroad.

1. Personal growth

Working abroad forces you to step out of your comfort zone and adapt to new environments, cultures, and ways of life. This can help you develop new skills and become more confident and resilient. It helps to broaden a person's horizons and gives them the chance to develop their knowledge of what is outside home and country.

Working abroad can also help a person learn about themselves in new ways. This is because it exposes them to different cultures, customs, and practices that may be unfamiliar or completely opposite from the norms of their home country. This can help a person realize more areas where they need improvement or growth.

2. Career development

Career development is one of the best benefits of working abroad. It can open up new job opportunities and help you gain valuable experience in your field. It can also help you develop a global perspective and become more attractive to employers. Many companies value employees who have experience working in different cultures and can bring a diverse perspective to the table.

Working in Australia , Canada, and other developed countries can allow you to gain experience in a different field or industry that may not be available in your home country. This can be a great way to develop new skills, gain experience, and advance your career. It can also help you to gain a unique insight into your industry, which can be beneficial when you return home.

3. Cultural immersion

Working abroad allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn about its customs, traditions, and way of life. This can be a valuable and eye-opening experience that can help you understand and appreciate different perspectives.

You will learn about different ways of living, communicating, and doing business, which can broaden your understanding of the world and make you a more well-rounded individual. Working abroad can give you a deep understanding of the culture and customs of the country you are living in. This can be beneficial in your interactions with colleagues and clients.

4. Language learning

Working abroad can also give you the opportunity to learn a new language. This can be a valuable skill for both personal and professional development. Being fluent in another language can open up new job opportunities and make it easier to navigate and communicate in a foreign country.

Learning a new language can give you a deeper understanding of a culture and can help you build stronger relationships with people from that culture. This can be especially valuable if you plan to work in a foreign country for an extended period or if you plan to do business with people from that country in the future.

Also Read: 15 Ultimate Benefits of Learning German Language

5. Networking

Working abroad can help you build a network of professional and personal contacts that can be valuable throughout your career. These contacts can include colleagues, clients, and industry leaders in your field. They can provide you with valuable advice, mentorship, and job opportunities, and can also serve as a sounding board for your ideas.

Additionally, these contacts can give you a deeper understanding of the business practices in the country where you are working. This can be especially valuable if you plan to work in that country again in the future or if you plan to do business with people from that country.

6. Increased competitiveness

The ability to work in a foreign country will increase your overall competitiveness. You will be able to think creatively and on your feet, and you will learn many valuable tools and tips as you go to a different environment. This will greatly strengthen your skills because of the variety of different environments you can be exposed to.

You will also build confidence in speaking in public because most of these countries are highly vocal if you are not communicating properly with them. This is a great experience for any job interview or any other type of communication that is required.

7. Better exposure

Working abroad is a great way to gain exposure to your chosen career field. Many companies are looking for young, up-and-coming talent that they can train and develop. Working abroad will show potential employers that you are willing to work hard and learn new things, key characteristics that they are looking for in their employees.

This is also a good way to show them how you operate under pressure and in new environments. Your willingness to take on more responsibility can also give you an edge over other candidates with more experience than yourself.

Travel is one of the greatest benefits of working abroad. You get to see so much more than you would in your everyday life back home. You will learn about new cultures, meet different people, and experience new things that are outside your comfort zone.

This can give you a new perspective on the world; it will broaden your horizons and help you better understand yourself and the people around you. Traveling increases your knowledge of the world and will help you appreciate all of life's experiences more deeply as a result.

9. Perspectives

Working abroad can give you a different perspective on your own culture, country, and way of life. This can be a valuable tool for personal and professional development. By living in a foreign country, you will learn to appreciate the things that you took for granted in your home country.

You will also gain a deeper understanding of your own culture and how it compares to other cultures. This can help you become more open-minded and accepting of different perspectives.

10. Global opportunities

Working abroad can open up new job opportunities and help you gain valuable experience in your field. It can also help you develop a global perspective and become more attractive to employers.

Working abroad can be a valuable and enriching experience that can offer personal growth, career development, and cultural immersion. It can also open up new job opportunities, help you develop a global perspective, and give you valuable skills for your future career. It's important to consider that initially, it can be tough to settle abroad but it is worth the struggle because of what you get.

If you also want to enjoy the benefits of moving abroad then GetGIS can help you. It has certified immigration experts that can help you get your ticket to move abroad. GetGIS can also assist you in finding a job abroad by optimizing your profile. So, contact GetGIS today to get your work abroad visa!

• Working Abroad
• Settle abroad
• Career abroad

Practice IELTS Speaking Based on other question types

Neelesh Karn , 

Content Marketing Specialist

A versatile content writer who likes to learn and explore. Proficient in scouring the internet in search of reliable information.

Related Articles

Complete Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Frankfurt in 2024

Nisha Menon

Duolingo vs IELTS: Which is Better for Students and Professionals?

Nurse Salary in Germany in 2024: Eligibility, Pay Influencing Factors & More

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu

14 Best Scholarships in Ireland in 2024: Types, Eligibility & More

ieltstution

Let"s Crack IELTS

Essay 36: Pros and Cons of Taking Family Abroad

Some people who go to work abroad for a period of time take their family with them. Does it have more advantages than disadvantages for individuals and their families?

Pros and cons of taking family abroad: analyzing the benefits and drawbacks.

In an increasingly globalized world, individuals often embark on international work assignments, some of whom choose to relocate with their families. This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of taking one’s family abroad for work and subsequently argue whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Taking one’s family while working abroad offers several advantages. Firstly, the presence of family members provides emotional support and companionship during the challenging process of adjusting to a new environment. Additionally, family support can boost an individual’s morale and productivity, leading to a more positive work experience. Moreover, sharing the journey with loved ones allows for stronger family bonds and a deeper sense of unity.

Relocating abroad with family presents unique advantages for children’s development. They gain exposure to diverse cultures, languages, and educational systems, fostering their adaptability and intercultural competence. Furthermore, the experience broadens their horizons and provides a global perspective, which can be invaluable in their personal and professional lives. The opportunity to immerse in a foreign culture also promotes empathy and tolerance.

While the advantages are significant, there are also potential challenges to consider. Work-life balance can become more complex when balancing the demands of a new job and family responsibilities. Cultural differences, language barriers, and limited social support networks can contribute to feelings of isolation and stress for both individuals and their families. Moreover, children may face difficulties in adapting to a new education system and establishing social connections.

In conclusion, taking one’s family abroad for work has both advantages and disadvantages. Emotional support, stronger family bonds, and developmental opportunities for children are clear benefits. However, challenges such as work-life balance, cultural adaptation, and educational adjustments must also be taken into account. Ultimately, the advantages of taking family abroad appear to outweigh the disadvantages, as the positive impact on individuals’ well-being, family cohesion, and children’s development can contribute to a more fulfilling and enriching experience overall.

Disadvantages of Working Abroad with Family: A Comprehensive Analysis

In an era of increasing globalization, individuals often pursue work opportunities abroad, and some choose to bring their families along. This essay will argue that the decision to relocate with family while working abroad has more disadvantages than advantages for both individuals and their families.

Taking one’s family abroad can lead to heightened emotional and practical challenges. Adapting to a new culture and environment can be stressful, and the presence of family members can compound these difficulties. The additional responsibilities of supporting and caring for loved ones in an unfamiliar setting can result in increased pressure and anxiety, affecting an individual’s work performance and personal well-being.

Relocating abroad with family can strain familial relationships due to the adjustment to a new lifestyle and culture. Differences in expectations, preferences, and coping mechanisms can lead to conflicts and disagreements within the family unit. Additionally, the presence of family members can restrict an individual’s ability to fully immerse themselves in the host country’s culture and lifestyle, limiting opportunities for personal growth and independence.

When children accompany their parents abroad, they may face significant educational and social challenges. Adapting to a new educational system, learning a different language, and making new friends can be overwhelming for children, affecting their academic performance and social well-being. Limited access to familiar support systems and friends from their home country can lead to feelings of isolation and hinder their overall development.

Taking one’s family while working abroad can impose professional limitations and career constraints. Balancing work responsibilities with family obligations can be demanding, potentially hindering an individual’s career advancement opportunities. Moreover, the challenges of obtaining employment or establishing a professional network in a foreign country can pose barriers to professional growth and job prospects.

In conclusion, the decision to relocate abroad with one’s family while working presents more disadvantages than advantages for both individuals and their families. The increased emotional and practical challenges, strained family relationships, limited independence, educational and social difficulties for children, as well as professional limitations, and career constraints all contribute to an overall negative impact. While some may argue for the benefits of familial support and shared experiences, the negative consequences outweigh these advantages. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to the potential disadvantages before making the decision to relocate with family while working abroad.

Relocating Abroad with Family: Advantages Outweigh Disadvantages

In today’s increasingly interconnected world, many individuals venture abroad for employment opportunities, often accompanied by their families. This essay aims to explore the argument that taking one’s family while working abroad has more advantages than disadvantages for both individuals and their families.

One of the key advantages of relocating with family is the substantial emotional support and stability it provides. Living and working in a foreign country can be overwhelming, but having loved ones nearby acts as a source of comfort and encouragement. Family members offer a support system, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. This emotional reinforcement ultimately enhances an individual’s overall well-being and work performance.

Another significant advantage of taking one’s family abroad is the strengthening of family bonds. Facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture and environment together cultivates a sense of unity and resilience among family members. Shared experiences of exploration, learning, and overcoming obstacles foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another. This bond acts as a strong foundation for the entire family’s personal and interpersonal growth.

Relocating with family exposes individuals and their families to diverse cultures, languages, and perspectives. This immersion in a foreign culture facilitates the development of cultural sensitivity, tolerance, and adaptability. Children, in particular, benefit from early exposure to different educational systems, fostering a global mindset and intercultural competence. This expanded worldview broadens horizons and equips individuals and their families with valuable skills for future endeavors.

Taking one’s family while working abroad allows for the sharing of responsibilities, providing practical advantages. Spouses can support each other in managing household tasks, childcare, and day-to-day logistics, which reduces the burden on the working individual. This shared responsibility promotes a healthier work-life balance and enables individuals to fully immerse themselves in their professional pursuits, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

In conclusion, the decision to relocate abroad with one’s family offers a myriad of advantages for individuals and their families. The emotional support and stability provided by family members, the strengthened bonds and unity experienced through shared challenges, the exposure to diverse cultures, and the practical benefits of shared responsibilities all contribute to a more enriching and rewarding experience. While certain challenges may arise, the advantages significantly outweigh the disadvantages. Thus, it can be concluded that taking one’s family while working abroad is a beneficial choice that promotes personal growth, family cohesion, and a broader global perspective.

Did you like these sample responses? Read more here:

• Nowadays, people are spending more time away from their homes because they spend longer in their workplace. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
• Nowadays, many people have to work a long time, and they feel more stressed than before. What are the reasons? What can employers do to make their life easier?
• Some people say that spending time to develop a successful career is the most important thing. Others say that spending time with friends and family is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Related Post

Essay 49: combating crime by increasing police presence on the streets, essay 48: juvenile delinquency: why parental punishment isn’t justifiable, essay 47: is taking a gap year before university beneficial, essay 46: are supermarkets replacing local shops.