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19 Pros and Cons of Working Abroad

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Working abroad is an adventure, with a unique set of positive and negative aspects.

If you are considering taking a job in another country, you should carefully consider the pros and cons.  

Table of Contents

1. Expand your mind

2. learning new life skills, 3. appreciating your country , 4. improve your resume, 5. global marketplace experience, 6. improve your financial security , 7. different perspectives on your business or industry, 8. seeing the world , 9. networking opportunities, 10. learn a new language , 1. up-front cost, 2. homesickness, 3. physical difficulties or illness, 4. disconnection from friends and family, 5. never completely fitting in, 6. difficulty moving up in your career , 7. cultural differences and faux paus, 8. less job flexibility ,  9. feeling transient, 19 pros and cons of working for working abroad – summary table, should you work abroad , pros of working abroad.

There are many pros of working abroad.

These include: 

• Expand your mind
• Learning new life skills
•  Appreciating your country 
• Improve your resume
• Global marketplace experience
• Improve your financial security 
• Different perspectives on your business or industry
• Seeing the world 
• Networking opportunities
• Learning a new language

One of the benefits of working abroad is expanding your mind.

You will be exposed to a completely different culture and potentially a new language as well. 

If you are curious about other cultures, there’s no better way to learn about them than to live it.

Working in a new country requires you to interact with your colleagues, which will help you understand their point of view. 

Working abroad requires you to learn some life skills that you may not have used before.

You’ll need a visa and transportation to the new country.

You should arrange accommodations before you set off for your new destination.

You will also need to learn about their currency, laws, and culture ahead of time.

 Once you learn these skills, you can use them throughout your life.

You’ve heard absence makes the heart grow fonder.

There are many things about your country of origin that you never stop to appreciate.

Once you live in a different country, you’ll gain a new appreciation for your home. 

Perhaps you’ll move back in a few years and be glad that you gained this new perspective.

Maybe you’ll just be grateful that you had the opportunity to grow up in your home country.

  You’ll learn a lot about what you value about your home once you leave it. 

Working abroad is a great way to improve your resume.

You’ll have unique experiences and knowledge that can easily set you apart from your competition when it’s time to find a new job or ask for a promotion. 

Today, nearly every career is part of the global marketplace .

Your experience abroad can make you a great asset to a company.

You’ll have insights into a country that only comes from living there. 

If your current country’s economy is struggling, you may be able to find a more secure financial future abroad.

If your current currency is weak, inflation is high, or job prospects are limited, moving to a country with a strong economy can be a great solution. 

One of the most important things you’ll gain by working abroad is learning different perspectives on your business or industry.

Each culture and country has a unique way of looking at things. 

You may learn how to streamline manufacturing if you move to Japan, for example. 

One of the reasons people choose to work abroad is because it allows them to see the world.

If you want to travel while making a living, working abroad allows you to do so.

You may even choose to work in one area for a while, and then move to another area.

Working abroad also allows you to have new networking opportunities.

You’ll meet many people that you would never encounter outside the country. 

These relationships can help you in your career, regardless of whether you plan to stay or move back to your home country eventually.

You’ll make close connections with people in your new country, which can open doors no matter what country you are in. 

You may also be able to learn a new language when working abroad.

Even if you already know the language, immersing yourself in it will allow you to become fluent in it.

This is difficult to do without using the language regularly. 

Cons of Working Abroad

Of course, working abroad has its fair share of cons as well. 

Cons of working abroad include:  

• Up-front cost
• Homesickness
• Physical difficulties or illness
• Disconnection from friends and family
• Never completely fitting in
• Difficulty moving up in your career (out of sight out of mind)
• Cultural differences and faux Paus
• Less job flexibility 
• Feeling transient

Moving to another country can be expensive.

You’ll need to have money saved to make your dream a reality.

You’ll need funds for a visa, accommodations, and getting your stuff to your new location. 

There may be ongoing costs as well.

When you begin your new job, it could be a month or more before you get your first paycheck.

You’ll also need a little time to settle in before you start work.

You should be sure that you have enough money saved before you make your move. 

One of the downsides of working abroad is homesickness.

You are bound to feel a longing for home when you are so far away.

Of course, this can grow your appreciation for your home country, but it can be tough to deal with. 

Staying connected with friends and family at home with video chats or phone calls can help.

It’s also important to be sure that your life abroad is rich with friends and hobbies as well as a career. 

When you move to a different country, the climate is likely going to be very different.

This can be a welcome change, but your body won’t be accustomed to the new climate. 

Some people find that their health improves in the new climate, but it’s also possible that your health will be negatively impacted.

You may develop allergies or have a hard time adapting to the new climate. 

Even though you’ll do your best to stay in touch with friends and family that you’ve left behind, there will be some disconnection.

You may find yourself missing important events with loved ones, like weddings and births.

You may also lose family members while you are away.

This is one of the hardest things about working abroad.  

You’ll never completely fit in when you are living abroad.

You’ll always be a foreigner. An outsider.

The people in your new home may be welcoming, but you’ll never truly be one of them. 

Working abroad can be a great way to improve your work prospects, but it can also make it harder to get ahead.

If you plan to stay with the same company, you may find yourself being out of sight, out of mind.

You may be passed up for promotions because you don’t interact with the top people. 

Cultural differences mean that you are bound to make some mistakes in your business relationships.

Ideally, you’ll learn fairly quickly how to navigate interactions with others, but you may still find an occasional culture gap. 

Even if you move to a country with a strong job market, you may find yourself locked into your new job

. Your visa and employment may be linked. In this case, if you leave your job, you may be required to leave the country as well. 

Even if your visa isn’t tied to your career, finding a new employer as a foreigner can be challenging.

It’s possible to find a new job, but you’ll probably have a harder time than you would in your own country. 

You may be planning on working abroad for a set amount of time.

In this case, feeling transient isn’t a big problem, because you know you won’t be there for the rest of your life. 

However, if you do plan to make a new permanent life in your new country, this can be tough.

Your employer and friends will likely assume that you will return home someday.

This may make it hard for you to get a promotion, or cause friends to keep some emotional distance.

You may also feel that you are never truly at home in your new country. 

There are many benefits to working abroad.

It can kick-start your career, and make you attractive in the global marketplace.  

However, it can also make it harder for you to get a promotion or change jobs in the future. 

Working abroad allows you to gain new life skills, and creates a strong sense of appreciation for your home country.

You may also find better economic opportunities abroad. 

However, you may experience homesickness, and never feel like you truly fit in when in your new country.

You may also struggle with business relationships due to cultural differences. 

The bottom line is, that you’ll need to decide if the pros outweigh the cons for you personally.

Generally, working abroad can be a great opportunity for many people.

If it appeals to you, go for it! 

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Advantages and disadvantages of working abroad. Why do people prefer to work abroad?

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Essay on Working Abroad

Students are often asked to write an essay on Working Abroad in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Working Abroad

What is working abroad.

Working abroad means getting a job in a foreign country. People work abroad for many reasons, including gaining new experiences, improving their skills, and increasing their earning potential.

Benefits of Working Abroad

Working abroad can offer many benefits. Some benefits include experiencing new cultures, meeting new people, and learning new languages. Working abroad can also help people develop new skills that can be used in their home country.

Challenges of Working Abroad

Working abroad can also present challenges. Some challenges include adjusting to a new culture, learning a new language, and finding a job. Additionally, working abroad can be lonely, as people may not have the same friends and family support system that they had in their home country.

Working abroad can be a life-changing experience. It can offer many benefits, such as new experiences, skills, and friendships. However, there can also be challenges, such as adjusting to a new culture and finding a job. Despite the challenges, working abroad can be a rewarding experience that can help people grow and learn.

250 Words Essay on Working Abroad

What does working abroad mean.

When you work in another country, you can learn a lot. You get to know new ways of doing things. You meet people from different backgrounds. This can help you understand the world better. Working abroad can also make you more independent. You learn to solve problems on your own because you are far from home.

Working in a new country is not always easy. One big challenge is the language. If you do not speak the language of the country, it can be hard to communicate. Feeling lonely is another challenge. Missing your family and friends back home is common.

Working abroad has both good and bad sides. It offers a chance to earn money, learn new things, and meet new people. But, it can also be tough because of language barriers and loneliness. If you are thinking about working in another country, it is important to be ready for both the fun and the hard parts.

500 Words Essay on Working Abroad

Working abroad: exploring new horizons.

Working abroad can be an enriching and transformative experience that brings numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. For many individuals, it’s a chance to step outside their comfort zone, broaden their horizons, and discover new cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives.

The benefits of working abroad are vielfältig and can vary from person to person. Some of the common advantages include:

Tips for Success

To make your experience working abroad successful, consider the following tips:

Working abroad is an adventure that can enrich your life both professionally and personally. By being open-minded, adaptable, and well-prepared, you can overcome the challenges and reap the many rewards that come with this unique experience.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Working Abroad

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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 !

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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

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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.

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Working Abroad: Pros and Cons of Embracing a Global Career

In today’s interconnected world, the idea of working abroad and embracing a global career has become increasingly appealing to many professionals. The opportunity to explore new cultures, gain international experience, and advance one’s career while traveling the world is undeniably enticing. However, like any major life decision, working abroad comes with its share of pros and cons. In this blog, we will delve into the advantages and challenges of embracing a global career, helping you make an informed decision about this life-changing opportunity.

Pros of Working Abroad:

1. Cultural Enrichment: One of the most significant advantages of working abroad is the exposure to different cultures. Immersing yourself in a new environment allows you to broaden your horizons, understand diverse perspectives, and develop a global mindset.

2. Language Proficiency: Working in a foreign country often provides the opportunity to learn or improve your language skills. Being multilingual can open doors to various job opportunities and enhance your communication skills.

3. Career Advancement: Embracing a global career can boost your professional growth. International experience is highly valued by employers, demonstrating adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.

4. Network Expansion: Working abroad allows you to build an extensive international network of contacts and professionals, creating valuable connections that can benefit your career in the long run.

5. Personal Growth: Living and working in a foreign country challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, fostering personal growth, self-confidence, and independence.

Cons of Working Abroad:

1. Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture and work environment can be challenging. Language barriers and different workplace customs may require time and effort to overcome.

2. Homesickness: Being away from family and friends can lead to feelings of homesickness and loneliness. Staying connected through technology and building a support system in your new location can help ease these emotions.

3. Legal and Visa Issues: Navigating the visa and work permit process in a foreign country can be complex and time-consuming. It’s essential to understand the legal requirements and plan accordingly.

4. Financial Considerations: Relocating to another country involves financial planning. From managing currency exchange rates to understanding the cost of living, it’s crucial to be financially prepared.

5. Uncertainty and Instability: Working abroad might involve dealing with political and economic uncertainties in some regions. It’s essential to research the country’s current situation and potential risks before making a decision.

Conclusion:

Working abroad offers a myriad of benefits, from personal growth to career advancement. Embracing a global career can be a life-changing experience that broadens your horizons and enriches your perspective. However, it’s essential to be aware of the challenges and potential obstacles that come with this adventure. Thorough research, preparation, and a positive attitude can help you overcome the cons and make the most of the pros of working abroad.

If you find yourself yearning for international experience and are looking for job opportunities abroad, look no further! At Alliance Visas, we specialize in making your global career dreams a reality. Our dedicated team will guide you through the entire process, from finding the perfect job opportunity to handling visa applications and paperwork. We pride ourselves on personalized support, ensuring your transition to a new work environment is smooth and stress-free.

Contact us today at [email protected] and let us be your partner on this exciting journey. Whether you seek cultural enrichment, career advancement, or personal growth, Alliance Visas is here to help you seize every opportunity that a global career has to offer. Don’t miss out on this life-changing experience! Let’s work together to make your dreams of working abroad a reality.

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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.

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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 .

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career-advice.jobs.ac.uk

Working overseas – the pros and cons

Tom Tuohy looks into the growing market for academics working abroad and the pros and cons of doing so

It’s no secret that our globalized world has seen a sea change in the number of academics travelling abroad for work. This was true even before Covid when many academics may have felt their career had stalled. Now, with Covid firmly in the rearview mirror, opportunities are opening up everywhere. Whether you’re newly qualified clutching your MA or PhD, a seasoned campaigner with years of experience, or someone considering a career change, there’s something out there for every educational industry professional seeking a fresh start. Why not check out jobs.ac.uk’s Global Academic Careers Guide ?

According to data from UNESCO and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the number of academics participating in international mobility programs has been steadily increasing over the past two decades. OECD’s Education at a Glance report showed between 2000-2018, the number of internationally mobile researchers increased by over 60%, a number almost certainly higher post-Covid.

So, why take the plunge? What’s in it for me?

The obvious advantages include the various career opportunities available for academics abroad: teaching positions at international universities, research opportunities at renowned institutions, or collaborative projects with foreign scholars. Opportunities for professional development exist too in gaining exposure to different teaching methodologies, research techniques, or cultural perspectives.

However, if networking and collaboration is more your thing, there are always new opportunities to share ideas with others in the same field. Cultural exchange benefits exist too whereby experiencing different cultures and traditions can enrich your personal and professional life, for example, affording you that long-cherished ambition to learn a second or even third language.

You may also be seeking a better work-life balance since not all cultures value work in the same way. I taught at two universities in Thailand over an 8-year period and, not only were beaches never more than a 2-hour drive away, cheap massage shops and Bohemian cafes everywhere, with many on-campus sports facilities, but my working day typically finished at 4pm, academic meetings were kept to a minimum, and there were always plenty of social events to attend if you wanted to. I also learned conversational Thai.

With the British pound not having as much buying power nowadays, salary differences, cost of living adjustments and potential funding opportunities for international research projects can be quite pronounced. While working for a large German company in Saudi, I received a generous tax-free salary, housing and transport allowances, VIP medical with free return flights for myself and family plus 10 weeks a year holiday entitlement.

What others say

Currently at a university in Bahrain (Country Profile) , American lecturer Jack Benson has worked in the Middle East, Asia and S. America. “I originally chose S. Korea to improve my professional career. The jobs were plentiful and, apart from an arbitrarily complicated process, easy to secure. That accompanied with safety, housing benefits and return tickets to my home country were great incentives.” He admits specific opportunities for resources weren’t what attracted him to pursue his career there as there were, “None to speak of. It had the best pay and conditions at the time.” Assessing his work-life balance in Bahrain compared to his home country, Jack says, “It’s better in the sense work does not intrude into areas of private life and, if it does, it is deemed okay for the employee to push back on out-of-hours requests.”

Australian Andrew Livitsanos currently works at The American University of Iraq, Baghdad, after previous stints in S. Korea (Country Profile) , Saudi Arabia, Libya and Bahrain. He says he chose Iraq to further his career, and his decision was influenced by “money, security, prestige and to experience the culture” as “Iraq is the cradle of civilisation produces world scholars and is full of opportunities and resources.” He’s particularly happy working on a newly established modern campus, with state-of-the-art technology.

In terms of challenges or disadvantages faced as a result of relocating, he says, “Sacrificing a lifestyle of the world I know, my family is distant, and there’s occasional loneliness.” To maintain a good work-life balance, he tries to, “keep calm at all times, treat it as a working holiday, accept the job needs (even on weekends).”

Londoner, Faisal Ali, a Computer Science Teacher, previously worked in Saudi but moved to Dubai ( Country Profile – UAE ) 6 years ago with his family. Currently working at a private school, he says “Dubai has always been ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. This was a big factor when raising a young family. The many attractions were also a big selling point. Dubai being a travel hub gives us opportunities to travel to places we would not consider as a family due to the travel time from the UK.”

He says of his work-life balance, “There is a big push within our school whereby meetings, if possible, are held during the school day, sports kits can be worn by staff on busy days, Friday being a half day, so we have a four and a half day working week.”

It’s clear working abroad has a lot to offer anyone with an eye for adventure. Maybe it’s time you dusted off your passport and started searching on jobs.ac.uk’s career pages ? You never know–there could just be a job there that’s a perfect fit for you.

The Different Types of Academic Careers

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Tom Tuohy is a retired educator and educational management professional. After 26 years working in Japan, Ghana, Thailand, the UK, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, he now spends his time writing fiction and non-fiction. As a freelance journalist, he has written for Al Jazeera (Doha), the Guardian (UK), the Nikkei Asian Review (Japan), the English Language Gazette (UK), the Bangkok Post (Thailand) and the South China Morning Post (Hong Kong). He is also the author of ‘Watching the Thais’ (https://www.amazon.com/Watching-Thais-Tom-Tuohy-ebook/dp/B00AS3XJQQ)

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25th April 2024 at 5:21 am

Thankyou for your insights. I would like to know more about these academic experiences and opportunities abroad, the examples you provide of academics working abroad are all males (…some with families). Do you have examples or case studies of female (e.g. single) academics doing the same?

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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.

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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.

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.

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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.

This Guest Post was written by Mark Bingham .

Table of Contents

6 pros and cons of working abroad

Pro 1: 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 deciding 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.

Con 1: 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 not easy, 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 you research 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.

Pro 2: 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.

Con 2: 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.

Pro 3: 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.

Con 3: 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.

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.

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Top 22 Advantages and Disadvantages of Working Abroad

Working abroad is working away from your homeland. Nowadays it has become a fashion to move abroad and work in order to earn money. People move from one country to another in search of the job or to settle. Now at least one member from the family is surely seen either preparing to move abroad or has already settled there.

Earning in dollars, euro, yen etc. that is in foreign currency and their lifestyle most probably attracts the people and this is the ultimate reason for people going abroad. Some of the working abroad pros and cons are given below:

Benefits of Working In a Foreign Country:

When you are asked, “ Would you consider working in a foreign country? ”

Most of our answer would be “ YES ” and it is not at all surprising.

There are plenty of reasons for it and every individual will have their own reasons to justify their decision.

Though there would be few difficulties initially when you are working in a foreign country, the benefits which you get will help you cover up all of them.

Some of the reasons why people want to work abroad are,

• Learn another language , or put their knowledge of foreign language skills to use
• Cultural exploration
• The excitement of living in a different country
• Challenge of building character abroad
• Not enough demand for your skills at your place
• Opportunity to earn good money
• Searching for a place where the cost of living is lower

Reasons why you want to work abroad:

Here are a few top things that you will be able to gain if you are working abroad

• Gaining knowledge of other local customs and ways of doing things
• Awareness of workplace dynamics of a different country
• Foreign language skills
• Independence in planning living style and work habits
• Awareness of the world and its variety of people and cultures

Taking the challenge of living abroad:

Many people dream of moving abroad and it is quite obvious. If you are getting good employment opportunities, better salaries, perks, and a good work culture that can help you get an improved lifestyle, then working abroad can surely be tried.

But before taking any decision, you need to think of a few points which are listed below.

The upsides:

• Moving abroad is very exciting
• Great chance to network and meet new people and make new friends.
• Opportunity to travel to many fabulous places
• Good employment choices , you can change your job or learn something new
• Bright future of your children
• You become a world citizen.

The downside:

• Not everyone will be comfortable while moving abroad
• Will be away from friends and family
• You will go through a lot of relationship pressure
• You may lose your sense of home

12 Things You Need to Know About Working Abroad:

Moving to a new country for working is no doubt a great opportunity. Now before moving out, there are a few things that you need to know.

• Choose the Employer who Will Help You manage all the Changes
• Understand the Company’s Culture
• Have a clear idea about it
• Understanding your Visa Conditions
• Taxes filing with the U.S. IRS
• Might be very hard Getting Credit
• Chances of complicated Banking
• Look for Fellow Expats
• Gain some basic knowledge of the language
• Use Your Extended Network
• Visa Process must be done in Advance
• Find out a source to Get Around

How to Apply for Jobs Abroad:

Some of the best sources for applying and getting a job abroad are

• Top companies
• Job Search engines
• Government employment websites
• Try an internship
• Meet recruiters

How to Find Work Overseas:

Here are some of the ways to earn money when you travel around the world.

• By teaching any language you know
• Getting seasonal work
• Online freelance work
• Working on a cruise ship
• If you are under 30, then you can get a holiday visa
• Work in a hostel
• Scuba diving instructor
• Make use of your talents to get work
• The job of a bartender
• Restaurant job
• Volunteer work

Working Abroad Pros and Cons Comparison Table:

Living and working abroad nowadays has become a great trend, but as every coin has two sides it also has a few pros and cons which are mentioned below.

Advantages of Working Abroad:

The following mentioned are a few benefits of living in a foreign country and working in foreign countries.

1. Good standard of living:

People who work abroad live with high standard and their lifestyle changes to a greater extent. Life in other countries is altogether different than the home country. If we move from one place to another, we experience the difference in all the things, be it culture, style of living, food habits, language, atmosphere, ambience, likes, dislikes and many other things that at times remain unnoticed. This is one of the first advantages of working in a developed country .

2. Experience different cultures:

The people who choose to work abroad experience different religious as well as working cultures. They get to learn a lot about different cultures. It enhances their knowledge and also makes them aware of their surroundings and the whole world.

3. Travel whole world:

Working abroad also helps a person to travel. One gets to see the whole world along with doing work. It can also act as refreshments from work for a few days and can make a person more excited about moving to another country for work.

4. Learning languages:

Moving from one country to another helps a person to know diverse languages. Apart from the mother tongue, one learns German, French, American English and many others according to the country one lives for the work.

5. Learning teamwork:

It is heard that the people in abroad has the best quality of working in a team. A person learns how to work in a team and also gets to know the criteria and methods by which they work. One gets to learn a lot by visualizing as well as working among them in an office.

6. Earning in foreign currency:

One gets to earn a lot, thus building a strong bank balance. A person if moves from India to America, will earn in dollars and as the value of their currency is more, a person will earn more, this will help in the near future.

7. Meeting and tackling people of heterogeneous nature:

As we move away from our homeland, we come across people with different cultures, languages, ideas, beliefs, methods of working, nature and so on. This way meeting different people from different countries, one gets to learn how to tackle people of heterogeneous nature. This adds to the skill of handling a large scale company with many employees.

8. Gives weight to resume:

Working abroad gives weight to the resume. It helps you to stand out of the crowd. Wherever a person goes, he or she is given the preference as he or she gets an international experience.

So, in this way such a resume is given more preference than any other. International work experience is the first and foremost choice for competitors.

9. More chances of promotion:

A person with international experience has more chances of promotion and success. A person gets success and promoted in the early stage just due to the stamp of international experience in a particular field. It helps you to develop at a faster rate and helps further your career at a quicker rate.

10. Improves communication skills:

A person is able to improve his communicative skills as he or she comes across language barriers and many cultural differences. By dealing with all such barriers one learns the skill of communicating effectively with people of different cultures and languages.

Disadvantages of working abroad:

1. a lot of money is required:.

In order to move abroad and work there, the first and foremost thing required is a hefty amount of money. If you cannot spend a lot of money, you cannot think of working abroad and settling there. So, this becomes an initial hindrance to work overseas. This is the first disadvantage of going abroad.

2. International business does not stick with a person for long:

A person if works overseas have to move from one country to another and this way a person is not able to stick to one thing. Such type of fluctuation in work is a great barrier and diverts one’s mind, affecting the work to a larger extent.

3. The feeling of loneliness and no stability:

As one has to move frequently from one place to another, one may feel lonely as the friend circle and social life is affected on the whole. Missing the old friends and family i.e. feeling homesick badly is the common thing. One has to fight all such emotions to move ahead. This is one of the biggest disadvantages of going abroad .

4. Different cultures:

As every country has it’s own culture, beliefs, and values, understanding all those immediately is very difficult. So suffering from cultural shock, the difference in the behaviour pattern of people from different countries is a great disadvantage of working abroad.

5. Learning new languages in short span:

A person has to learn a number of languages that too in a short span of time. Learning languages is also a herculean task and if not learned by a person then it can lead to the communication barrier. A person will not be able to understand what other says, neither will be able to communicate well.

6. Not able to enjoy the traditional holidays at homeland:

The person remains void of enjoying all the traditional festivals like Diwali, Lohri, and Christmas and so on. One has to work incessantly without any occasional holiday. This also sometimes frustrates a person and thus affects the work quality.

7. Living conditions:

It’s not sure that you will get the best condition to live in as every country does not provide an employee with a good working condition. It will depend highly on where you choose to live for your work.

8. People may or may not be rude:

You never know what kind of people you will come across. Rude or polite, whatever natured a person is, one has to tackle in a smart way as you are working overseas. One must learn the custom and habit of people in the country you are moving to. “ When in Rome, do as Romans do” is a great tip for people working overseas.

9. No guarantee of getting a good position in another country:

It is not necessary always that you will be relocated to the same post in the next country. For those who think of leaving a country and current post for the purpose of settling abroad should not expect for a guaranteed same post. One may even get less salary than the present. So, one has to be prepared with all such risks one may go through.

10. Safety issues:

One may either do not feel safe overseas. No friends, no family, no social life and all such things should be taken into notice beforehand and should be prepared emotionally before leaving for abroad.

11. Learning new norms and laws:

Every country has it’s own rules and norms of working. Adapting those norms within a blink of an eye is difficult but if the norms are strict and a person fails to attempt according to those rules, one may fall into greater trouble, which may further become a never-ending process.

12. Lower level jobs:

One may get a lower-level job or can even get menial work to do in the initial stages in case the experience in the homeland is not good enough. So, for such circumstances, one has to be prepared and be strong enough to handle a difficult situation in case a person comes through.

Conclusion:

So, above are the various advantages of working abroad and living in a foreign country along with the disadvantages of working abroad. No matter how many disadvantages it has, one must look forward with a positive attitude towards the advantages and move ahead in life. Everything in life has pros and cons, leaving aside the cons, one must look ahead and choose what one feels to be right.

Every person aspires to go abroad, work and finally settle there. In order to go abroad, one has to start from scratch and work accordingly. It is not impossible but yes difficult enough.

Moreover, the grass is always green on the other side and before getting attracted to the greener portion of the grass, one must get through the darker side too. As knowing both comforts and difficulties are must before starting any new work.

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The Pros and Cons of Working Abroad

Following the rather miserable, cold and rainy summer the UK has had this year you may be starting to consider escaping to a sunnier, warmer climate. We don’t blame you! With the ever-rising cost of living, a lot of young Brits are packing up and moving across the world in search of a better quality of life. Working abroad offers a multitude of benefits, from cultural enrichment and personal growth to career advancement and language acquisition. But is the grass really that greener on the other side? Uplifting your life and moving abroad is a huge decision to make. Not to mention other challenges such as family separation, cultural adjustment and visa applications. Before embarking on an international career, it’s essential to research and plan thoroughly. We have weighed up the pros and cons of working abroad to give you a head start and help you decide your future a little easier.

But before we get into that, let’s start with exploring exactly how someone could take the leap and immigrate to a foreign country. Some pathways are more logistically complicated than others and some are much cheaper than others so it’s vital to explore all your options and choose the one that best suits your needs. Here are a few different routes you could look at;

Working Holiday Visa

If you are aged between 18-30 then one of the most popular choices is to obtain a Working Holiday Visa. A Working Holiday Visa would allow you to work in your chosen country for a varied period depending on where you go! There are lots of countries that offer the program but the most popular are;

• New Zealand

Now, several companies out there offer their services to help you during the immigration process. For a fee, companies like BUNAC will help you secure your Visa, flights, temporary accommodation and even a bank account, taking all the stress of moving off your shoulders. However you could also go solo, do it all independently and save the extra cash by visiting your desired country's immigration website.

Become a Teacher

What better way to end a full day of teaching than to head down to the beach for a swim? If you have studied education or completed a QTS or PGCE then teaching abroad is a very realistic option. Choosing to teach in a foreign country could land you with a higher wage in comparison to the UK, cheaper rent and a more diverse range of opportunities. If this idea sparks some excitement in you then head over to TES.com where lots of international schools post job openings daily.

Additionally, if you haven’t trained specifically in education then fear not! You can still teach abroad by gaining a TEFL certificate. TEFL stands for “Teach English as a Foreign Language” and given the significant demand for English teachers around the world, could be a good option for your working abroad journey. Once qualified, you are open to a range of opportunities including teaching in public or private schools, language centres, Universities or even online.

Work Remotely

I’m sure we’ve all seen the typical “van life” videos of people who travel the world in their homes on wheels and work entirely remotely and thought about doing a similar thing. Well, it’s completely achievable and there are a couple of ways you could go about it.

Firstly, some countries offer a Digital Nomad Visa which will allow you to live and work remotely in their country long-term. There are different requirements and costs for this type of visa to consider but for the majority of them, you have to be employed and earn a certain amount, again depending on the country's requirements. You probably would also need your employers' permission before you jet off… just a thought.

Secondly, if you don’t like to settle and you’d rather see as much of the world as you can, you could always enter different countries on a tourist visa. This would mean you stay in the country for the amount of days permitted in your visa then when the time comes, pack up and find somewhere new! The main thing to consider is your living situation as your easiest and cheapest option would probably be to live in Hostels which isn’t for everyone! Again, it’s probably wise that you already have a remote job or a well-established freelancing career before choosing this option. Good ways to make money by freelancing include;

• Graphic/Web Design
• App Developer
• Virtual Assistant
• Content Writer/Blogger
• Voiceover Artist

Don’t forget you’ll need a good internet connection too!

Work Seasonally

If you aren’t in a desperate rush to start your career and want to travel but also have the reassurance that you’ll be returning home in a few months then we recommend you consider seasonal work. It won’t make you loads of money but you're essentially working to fund the expenses of travelling and living abroad. The opportunities for seasonal work are endless, here are just a few examples of sectors you could work in;

• Summer Camps
• Ski and Snowboard Instructing
• Hospitality
• Holiday Rep

Jobs like these can include long hours but you are guaranteed to mix with a diverse range of like-minded people from all over the world. Once again, several companies out there will charge a fee for securing your job and supporting the process of gaining a temporary work visa, booking flights etc. so if you are looking for some temporary work abroad, this is your go-to!

Finally, the most selfless, yet pricey, of options would be to volunteer abroad. We say pricey because for certain volunteering programmes, you would have to pay a fee and for your flights. Despite this, volunteering abroad can be very fulfilling and rewarding because organisations and communities need volunteers. If you have a way of finding the money to volunteer abroad then you should consider it.

Additionally, you could always try a work exchange role. This is where you would be working for a company or organisation in exchange for free accommodation and often food. Best part? You do not require a working visa, just a tourist one. This is a great option if you have a chunk of money saved up and want a temporary escape to a different side of the world.

Hopefully one of those routes has attracted your attention and you are now starting to genuinely consider whether some time working abroad is in your future. Before you even start the process though, you should do your research and make sure that you are absolutely 100% mind made up! So with that, let’s get back to the pros and cons of working abroad.

You get to experience different cultures and meet new people - Perhaps one of the most attractive things about working abroad is the opportunity to see just how different life can be in another country. Living and working in a foreign country allows you to experience new customs, languages and traditions firsthand, broadening your horizons and fostering a deeper understanding of different cultures. Not only that but the range of people you will meet will range from national citizens to other wanderlust seekers like yourself.

Increase your confidence and personal skills - For a lot of people, even the thought of getting on a plane alone can be daunting. By moving abroad you are bound to face lots of challenges and will have to adapt very quickly to settle into your new, unfamiliar surroundings. Most people choose to travel alone but even if you do so with a friend, family member or significant other, exposing yourself to new experiences, new places and new people is a sure-fire way to increase personal skills such as confidence, resilience and independence.

Better life/work balance - Many people claim that they have a better quality of life abroad and this could be for a variety of reasons. As mentioned before, the cost of living crisis is something that is forcing a lot of Brits to move abroad. Not only do a lot of countries pay more but also the average cost of renting tends to be cheaper. Plus if you can move somewhere that feeds into your hobbies, perfect! For example, a surfer may choose to find work near an Aussie coast. Additionally, if you choose to live somewhere in Europe then you are only a short plane or train journey away from neighbouring countries, thus expanding your opportunity to travel and see more of the world.

Expand career opportunities - Simply put, working abroad will increase your network, boost your professional skills and potentially result in a very desirable, well-rounded CV. These days, most employers are looking for life experience as well as professional. When you move abroad you are demonstrating that you are willing to take risks, adapt to new surroundings and embrace change. These are all skills that potential employers are looking for.

Distance from family and friends - Everyone has different circumstances and this may not apply to you, but for a lot of people moving away from family and friends can be a very difficult decision to come to. And once you are living away from them the possibility of getting homesick is a possibility and with today’s air fares and travel prices, it’s not so easy to just pop home for a brew. You should really take the time to consider whether distancing yourself from your inner circle is something you think you can emotionally handle.

Lots of immediate expenses - Unfortunately, a large barrier to being successful in moving abroad is your financial situation. No matter which path you choose, you will have to lay out a considerable amount of money to be able to move abroad. Often people will plan for months or years for a move abroad and we recommend you consider doing the same thing. Not only do you have to consider the costs of visa, flights, accommodation deposits and insurance to name a few, but you can also expect some countries to require you to have a certain amount of money in your bank account and often this number will be in the thousands.

Language barrier - If you happen to be moving to a country where English is not the first language then sometimes communication can be difficult, thus resulting in a language barrier. This is something you have to consider not just in the workplace, but in your personal life as well. In some countries, foreigners may be looked down upon for not speaking their native language. We would advise you to make an effort to learn the basics before you move!

Career Uncertainty - Although we said before that moving abroad can increase your career potential, it could also send you in the opposite direction. Sometimes people have been known to move abroad and they haven’t been able to secure work so they have inevitably returned home. In addition, if you do choose to return home at any point after your time away, you could also be left jobless and having that label of someone who has travelled and lived abroad could potentially be a red flag for businesses as it could imply that you will be up and off again soon.

Moving abroad is not a decision you should take lightly. However, if you have the funds, time and confidence to do so then go for it! The old saying goes “You only live once” and you’ll never know unless you try. Hopefully, our list has given you some food for thought and helped you to make up your mind.

Whatever you decide to do make sure you keep up to date with the Careermap job listings and available

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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What is Project 2025? What to know about the conservative blueprint for a second Trump administration

By Melissa Quinn , Jacob Rosen

Updated on: July 11, 2024 / 9:40 AM EDT / CBS News

Washington — Voters in recent weeks have begun to hear the name "Project 2025" invoked more and more by President Biden and Democrats, as they seek to sound the alarm about what could be in store if former President Donald Trump wins a second term in the White House.

Overseen by the conservative Heritage Foundation, the multi-pronged initiative includes a detailed blueprint for the next Republican president to usher in a sweeping overhaul of the executive branch.

Trump and his campaign have worked to distance themselves from Project 2025, with the former president going so far as to call some of the proposals "abysmal." But Democrats have continued to tie the transition project to Trump, especially as they find themselves mired in their own controversy over whether Mr. Biden should withdraw from the 2024 presidential contest following his startling debate performance last month.

Here is what to know about Project 2025:

What is Project 2025?

Project 2025 is a proposed presidential transition project that is composed of four pillars: a policy guide for the next presidential administration; a LinkedIn-style database of personnel who could serve in the next administration; training for that pool of candidates dubbed the "Presidential Administration Academy;" and a playbook of actions to be taken within the first 180 days in office.

It is led by two former Trump administration officials: Paul Dans, who was chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management and serves as director of the project, and Spencer Chretien, former special assistant to Trump and now the project's associate director.

Project 2025 is spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation, but includes an advisory board consisting of more than 100 conservative groups.

Much of the focus on — and criticism of — Project 2025 involves its first pillar, the nearly 900-page policy book that lays out an overhaul of the federal government. Called "Mandate for Leadership 2025: The Conservative Promise," the book builds on a "Mandate for Leadership" first published in January 1981, which sought to serve as a roadmap for Ronald Reagan's incoming administration.

The recommendations outlined in the sprawling plan reach every corner of the executive branch, from the Executive Office of the President to the Department of Homeland Security to the little-known Export-Import Bank. 

The Heritage Foundation also created a "Mandate for Leadership" in 2015 ahead of Trump's first term. Two years into his presidency, it touted that Trump had instituted 64% of its policy recommendations, ranging from leaving the Paris Climate Accords, increasing military spending, and increasing off-shore drilling and developing federal lands. In July 2020, the Heritage Foundation gave its updated version of the book to then-White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. 

The authors of many chapters are familiar names from the Trump administration, such as Russ Vought, who led the Office of Management and Budget; former acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller; and Roger Severino, who was director of the Office of Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services.

Vought is the policy director for the 2024 Republican National Committee's platform committee, which released its proposed platform on Monday. 

John McEntee, former director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office under Trump, is a senior advisor to the Heritage Foundation, and said that the group will "integrate a lot of our work" with the Trump campaign when the official transition efforts are announced in the next few months.

Candidates interested in applying for the Heritage Foundation's "Presidential Personnel Database" are vetted on a number of political stances, such as whether they agree or disagree with statements like "life has a right to legal protection from conception to natural death," and "the President should be able to advance his/her agenda through the bureaucracy without hindrance from unelected federal officials."

The contributions from ex-Trump administration officials have led its critics to tie Project 2025 to his reelection campaign, though the former president has attempted to distance himself from the initiative.

What are the Project 2025 plans?

Some of the policies in the Project 2025 agenda have been discussed by Republicans for years or pushed by Trump himself: less federal intervention in education and more support for school choice; work requirements for able-bodied, childless adults on food stamps; and a secure border with increased enforcement of immigration laws, mass deportations and construction of a border wall. 

But others have come under scrutiny in part because of the current political landscape. 

Abortion and social issues

In recommendations for the Department of Health and Human Services, the agenda calls for the Food and Drug Administration to reverse its 24-year-old approval of the widely used abortion pill mifepristone. Other proposed actions targeting medication abortion include reinstating more stringent rules for mifepristone's use, which would permit it to be taken up to seven weeks into a pregnancy, instead of the current 10 weeks, and requiring it to be dispensed in-person instead of through the mail.

The Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative legal group that is on the Project 2025 advisory board, was involved in a legal challenge to mifepristone's 2000 approval and more recent actions from the FDA that made it easier to obtain. But the Supreme Court rejected the case brought by a group of anti-abortion rights doctors and medical associations on procedural grounds.

The policy book also recommends the Justice Department enforce the Comstock Act against providers and distributors of abortion pills. That 1873 law prohibits drugs, medicines or instruments used in abortions from being sent through the mail.

Now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade , the volume states that the Justice Department "in the next conservative administration should therefore announce its intent to enforce federal law against providers and distributors of such pills."

The guide recommends the next secretary of Health and Human Services get rid of the Reproductive Healthcare Access Task Force established by the Biden administration before Roe's reversal and create a "pro-life task force to ensure that all of the department's divisions seek to use their authority to promote the life and health of women and their unborn children."

In a section titled "The Family Agenda," the proposal recommends the Health and Human Services chief "proudly state that men and women are biological realities," and that "married men and women are the ideal, natural family structure because all children have a right to be raised by the men and women who conceived them."

Further, a program within the Health and Human Services Department should "maintain a biblically based, social science-reinforced definition of marriage and family."

During his first four years in office, Trump banned transgender people from serving in the military. Mr. Biden reversed that policy , but the Project 2025 policy book calls for the ban to be reinstated.

Targeting federal agencies, employees and policies

The agenda takes aim at longstanding federal agencies, like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. The agency is a component of the Commerce Department and the policy guide calls for it to be downsized. 

NOAA's six offices, including the National Weather Service and National Marine Fisheries Service, "form a colossal operation that has become one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry and, as such, is harmful to future U.S. prosperity," the guide states. 

The Department of Homeland Security, established in 2002, should be dismantled and its agencies either combined with others, or moved under the purview of other departments altogether, the policy book states. For example, immigration-related entities from the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice and Health and Human Services should form a standalone, Cabinet-level border and immigration agency staffed by more than 100,000 employees, according to the agenda.

If the policy recommendations are implemented, another federal agency that could come under the knife by the next administration, with action from Congress, is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

The agenda seeks to bring a push by conservatives to target diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives in higher education to the executive branch by wiping away a slew of DEI-related positions, policies and programs and calling for the elimination of funding for partners that promote DEI practices.

It states that U.S. Agency for International Development staff and grantees that "engage in ideological agitation on behalf of the DEI agenda" should be terminated. At the Treasury Department, the guide says the next administration should "treat the participation in any critical race theory or DEI initiative without objecting on constitutional or moral grounds, as per se grounds for termination of employment."

The Project 2025 policy book also takes aim at more innocuous functions of government. It calls for the next presidential administration to eliminate or reform the dietary guidelines that have been published by the Department of Agriculture for more than 40 years, which the authors claim have been "infiltrated" by issues like climate change and sustainability.

Immigration

Trump made immigration a cornerstone of his last two presidential runs and has continued to hammer the issue during his 2024 campaign. Project 2025's agenda not only recommends finishing the wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, but urges the next administration to "take a creative and aggressive approach" to responding to drug cartels at the border. This approach includes using active-duty military personnel and the National Guard to help with arrest operations along the southern border.

A memo from Immigration and Customs Enforcement that prohibits enforcement actions from taking place at "sensitive" places like schools, playgrounds and churches should be rolled back, the policy guide states. 

When the Homeland Security secretary determines there is an "actual or anticipated mass migration of aliens" that presents "urgent circumstances" warranting a federal response, the agenda says the secretary can make rules and regulations, including through their expulsion, for as long as necessary. These rules, the guide states, aren't subject to the Administration Procedure Act, which governs the agency rule-making process.

What do Trump and his advisers say about Project 2025?

In a post to his social media platform on July 5, Trump wrote , "I know nothing about Project 2025. I have no idea who is behind it. I disagree with some of the things they're saying and some of the things they're saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal. Anything they do, I wish them luck, but I have nothing to do with them."

Trump's pushback to the initiative came after Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts said in a podcast interview that the nation is "in the process of the second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be."

The former president continued to disavow the initiative this week, writing in another social media post  that he knows nothing about Project 2025.

"I have not seen it, have no idea who is in charge of it, and, unlike our very well received Republican Platform, had nothing to do with it," Trump wrote. "The Radical Left Democrats are having a field day, however, trying to hook me into whatever policies are stated or said. It is pure disinformation on their part. By now, after all of these years, everyone knows where I stand on EVERYTHING!"

While the former president said he doesn't know who is in charge of the initiative, the project's director, Dans, and associate director, Chretien, were high-ranking officials in his administration. Additionally, Ben Carson, former secretary of Housing and Urban Development under Trump; John Ratcliffe, former director of National Intelligence in the Trump administration; and Peter Navarro, who served as a top trade adviser to Trump in the White House, are listed as either authors or contributors to the policy agenda.

Still, even before Roberts' comments during "The War Room" podcast — typically hosted by conservative commentator Steve Bannon, who reported to federal prison to begin serving a four-month sentence last week — Trump's top campaign advisers have stressed that Project 2025 has no official ties to his reelection bid.

Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita, senior advisers to the Trump campaign, said in a November statement that 2024 policy announcements will be made by Trump or his campaign team.

"Any personnel lists, policy agendas, or government plans published anywhere are merely suggestions," they said.

While the efforts by outside organizations are "appreciated," Wiles and LaCivita said, "none of these groups or individuals speak for President Trump or his campaign."

In response to Trump's post last week, Project 2025 reiterated that it was separate from the Trump campaign.

"As we've been saying for more than two years now, Project 2025 does not speak for any candidate or campaign. We are a coalition of more than 110 conservative groups advocating policy & personnel recommendations for the next conservative president. But it is ultimately up to that president, who we believe will be President Trump, to decide which recommendations to implement," a statement on the project's X account said.

The initiative has also pushed back on Democrats' claims about its policy proposals and accused them of lying about what the agenda contains.

What do Democrats say?

Despite their attempts to keep some distance from Project 2025, Democrats continue to connect Trump with the transition effort. The Biden-Harris campaign frequently posts about the project on X, tying it to a second Trump term.

Mr. Biden himself accused his Republican opponent of lying about his connections to the Project 2025 agenda, saying in a statement that the agenda was written for Trump and "should scare every single American." He claimed on his campaign social media account  Wednesday that Project 2025 "will destroy America."

Congressional Democrats have also begun pivoting to Project 2025 when asked in interviews about Mr. Biden's fitness for a second term following his lackluster showing at the June 27 debate, the first in which he went head-to-head with Trump.

"Trump is all about Project 2025," Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman told CNN on Monday. "I mean, that's what we really should be voting on right now. It's like, do we want the kind of president that is all about Project '25?"

Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, one of Mr. Biden's closest allies on Capitol Hill, told reporters Monday that the agenda for the next Republican president was the sole topic he would talk about.

"Project 2025, that's my only concern," he said. "I don't want you or my granddaughter to live under that government."

In a statement reiterating her support for Mr. Biden, Rep. Frederica Wilson of Florida called Project 2025 "MAGA Republicans' draconian 920-page plan to end U.S. democracy, give handouts to the wealthy and strip Americans of their freedoms."

What are Republicans saying about Project 2025?

Two GOP senators under consideration to serve as Trump's running mate sought to put space between the White House hopeful and Project 2025, casting it as merely the product of a think tank that puts forth ideas.

"It's the work of a think tank, of a center-right think tank, and that's what think tanks do," Florida Sen. Marco Rubio told CNN's "State of the Union" on Sunday.

He said Trump's message to voters focuses on "restoring common sense, working-class values, and making our decisions on the basis of that."

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance raised a similar sentiment in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press," saying organizations will have good ideas and bad ideas.

"It's a 900-page document," he said Sunday. "I guarantee there are things that Trump likes and dislikes about that 900-page document. But he is the person who will determine the agenda of the next administration."

Jaala Brown contributed to this report.

Melissa Quinn is a politics reporter for CBSNews.com. She has written for outlets including the Washington Examiner, Daily Signal and Alexandria Times. Melissa covers U.S. politics, with a focus on the Supreme Court and federal courts.

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Currensea Review 2024

Published: Jul 10, 2024, 11:14am

Important Disclosure: The content provided does not consider your particular circumstances and does not constitute personal advice. Some of the products promoted are from our affiliate partners from whom we receive compensation. Read More

If you require any personal advice, please seek such advice from an independently qualified financial advisor. While we aim to feature some of the best products available, this does not include all available products from across the market. Although the information provided is believed to be accurate at the date of publication, you should always check with the product provider to ensure that information provided is the most up to date. Read Less

Travel debit card Currensea links to an existing current account to offer reduced or zero (depending on the plan) foreign exchange fees when making payments or withdrawing cash overseas. It means you won’t need to open a new current account or top up a prepaid card to get a fair deal on spending abroad. 

• 0.5% foreign exchange rate (Essentials plan)
• Use existing current account
• Mastercard Chargeback Protection
• 0% foreign exchange only applies to paid-for plans
• Does not connect to all banks
• No physical branches

Table of Contents

Key features, what is currensea, how does currensea work, how to register for a currensea account,  which banks does currensea connect to, how much does currensea cost, currensea fees and charges, is currensea safe, what do customers think about currensea, is currensea right for me.

Currensea’s Essential (free to use) plan offers the following features: 

• reduced spending abroad : Currensea applies a 0.5% flat rate for spending and cash withdrawals abroad 
• money transfers : customers can send between £100 and £20,000 from a UK bank to an recipient’s account using one of the following currencies; US Dollars (USD), Euros (EUR), Polish Zloty (PLN) and Hungarian Forint (HUF)
• spend in wide range of currencies: make payments and withdrawals in 180 currencies 
• spending notifications: receive instant notifications via the Currensea app and email each time a payment is made on the card
• security measures: freeze and unfreeze your card if it gets lost or stolen
• Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer air miles : collect 2 KrisFlyer air miles per £1 spent on the card
• purchase protection: payments protected by the Mastercard Chargeback scheme

Curensea is an app-based debit card that allows you to make payments and withdraw cash abroad for either zero or reduced foreign exchange fees depending on the plan you choose. 

By contrast, using a debit card with a standard bank account abroad would usually incur fees of around 2.99% for each transaction.

Currensea links to your existing current account so you won’t have to open a separate account or top up a prepaid card. 

Currensea is a service that sits between you and your bank. When you make a payment in a foreign currency, Currensea converts it into pound sterling (GBP) and deducts this amount from your current account, using either the interbank rate or the Mastercard exchange rate (depending on the currency you pay in). 

If you are using its cost-free Essential account, a flat foreign exchange fee of 0.5% applies to each payment. The Premium and Elite plans (which cost £25 and £120 a year respectively) offer 0% foreign exchange fees – but limits still apply. More on this further down.

To get started with Currensea, you’ll need to register for an account online or via the app. 

Once your account has been set up you can connect Currensea to your main current account using open banking. 

After your account is approved you’ll receive a debit card in the post. This usually takes about three business days. You can make payments, withdraw cash or make a money transfer immediately once your card is activated. 

It’s possible to connect to Currensea with Apple Pay on an iOS device and Google Pay for Android devices. 

To sign up for a Currensea account you’ll need to provide the following:

• personal information : name, home address, contact number
• link bank account : select your bank and log in via open banking
• proof of ID : a photo of your passport, driving licence or national ID card.

To sign up for a Currensea card you’ll need to:

• be aged 18 or over
• have a valid mobile phone number
• have an active current account with a supported bank (more on this below),
• be registered for online or mobile banking 
• be suitable for a payment card that requires a direct debit 
• have no active CCJs 
• be a resident of the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Ireland, the Netherlands or Cyprus.

At the time of writing (July 2024) Currensea allows you to connect to current accounts with the following providers: 

• Bank of Scotland
• First Direct
• Virgin Money

It’s important to note that Currensea does not currently connect to basic bank accounts . 

Currensea offers three different price plans, Essential, Premium, and Elite. Here’s a summary of each one: 

• Essential : free to use, 0.5% foreign exchange fees on card spending and ATM withdrawals abroad. Increases to 2% if you withdraw over £500 per month. You’ll pay an additional £2 for every additional £100 you withdraw over this limit
• Premium: £25 per year, 0% foreign exchange fees on card spending and ATM withdrawals abroad. Increases to 1% for cash withdrawals over £500 per month. You’ll pay an additional £1 for every additional £100 you withdraw over this limit 
• Elite : £120 per year, 0% foreign exchange fees on card spending and ATM withdrawals. Increases to 1% for cash withdrawals over £750 a month. This plan also comes with additional benefits such as discounted airport lounges and travel concierge services. 

Customers may be liable to pay fees for the following: 

• late payment: charges of up to £35 apply if you make a payment and there are insufficient funds in your account to cover it
• replacement card : if your card is lost or stolen, a £5 charge can be applied for a replacement. 

Currensea is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). All transactions made using Currensea are protected by Mastercard’s Chargeback scheme . 

This allows customers to request a refund through their bank if there is a breach of contract with a purchase and the merchant will not issue a refund.

For example, you may be able to make a Chargeback claim if:

• a merchant goes bust
• your goods arrive damaged
• your goods don’t match the seller’s description

Currensea also allows you to freeze your card online or through the app if it is lost or stolen, or you spot an unrecognised transaction.

You may need to pay £5 for a replacement card if yours is lost.

At the time of writing, Currensea has a TrustPilot excellent rating of 4.9 stars out of 5 based on 9,429 reviews. 

Customers with a positive experience of using Curensea highlighted its ease of use and competitive exchange rates as benefits. 

Some customers expressed difficulties contacting customer service as a drawback of using the provider. 

Typically, standard current accounts apply a fee of around 2.99% per transaction when you make payments or withdraw money abroad. This can be an expensive way to cover your overseas spending. 

Currensea is a good option for travellers who use a current account from a high street bank when spending abroad. 

That being said, there are several alternative current accounts that allow you to spend abroad without incurring fees. First Direct, for example, offers fee-free spending and cash withdrawals of up to £500 per day. 

A range of app-based challenger banks such as Starling Bank allow spending abroad without fees and cash withdrawals of up to £300 per day. Similarly, Monzo offers fee-free spending abroad and cash withdrawals of up to £200 every 30 days. 

Digital card provider, Revolut , also allows travellers to spend abroad without paying foreign exchange fees and offers a higher cash withdrawal limit of £1,000 per month. We round up our pick of the best direct debit cards to use abroad in our guide. 

Travel-specific credit cards however can often be the best way to spend abroad as these deals don’t charge fees on overseas spending and are sometimes fee-free for cash withdrawals. Bear in mind that you’ll need to clear your balance in full each month to avoid paying interest. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can i use currsensea anywhere.

Currensea is accepted anywhere that supports Mastercard payments in the UK and abroad.

Does Currensea charge for ATM withdrawals?

Cardholders can make withdrawals of up to £500 per month overseas. Currensea applies a total markup of 2% on the exchange rate for the Essential plan and 1% for the Premium Plan.

Customers with an Elite plan can withdraw up to £750 per month and have a 1% exchange rate markup for withdrawals over that amount.

It’s important to note that Currensea does not offer cash withdrawals from ATMs in the UK.

How long does a money transfer take?

Money transfers made before 9pm UK time on weekdays should reach the recipient’s bank account the next business day.

If you make a money transfer over the weekend, your recipient should receive it by the following Tuesday.

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I have covered a wide range of personal finance topics for consumer publications including NerdWallet, Which? and Moneywise. From credit and banking to investing and mortgages, my aim is to simplify the world of personal finance and share tips for looking after your money.

I've been involved in personal finance and property journalism for the past 20 years, editing websites and writing for national newspapers. My objective has always been to offer no-nonsense information to readers that either saves or earns them cash.

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