Like to work overseas?
Here are some things to consider before making an international move.
When it comes to working overseas the options can be endless. You may be considering teaching English in Italy or taking a job that’s very similar to the one you’re doing now, only in New York City!
Earn more than just money
Where ever you’re planning to go, you could find there’s more to be gained by working overseas than just earning a different currency.
It’s true: international experience can look good on your resume when you return home. That’s because many employers value the experiences employees gain by working overseas.
In fact, the Australian National University[1] has found employers value candidates with international experience for a number of reasons.
- Can help companies maintain a global competitive advantage by bringing international skills, experience and cultural understanding
- Better understand the international marketplace
- Can more easily build relationships with foreign clients, suppliers and business partners
- Have more diverse perspectives and experiences
- Offer a range of enhanced general skills.
Top overseas employment destinations
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics[2] an estimated 346,000 Australian-born people are living overseas. Of this number, most are living in the UK and USA, with New Zealand also fairly popular.
- United Kingdom―33%
- United States―22%
- New Zealand―14%
- Greece―7%
- Canada―6%
- Italy―6%.
Getting ready to pack
As rewarding as overseas work can be, it can be challenging to leave all that’s familiar behind. But if you’re keen to start from scratch and live and work in a different country, you’re probably ready to step out of your comfort zone.
If working overseas appeals to you there are some things you can do to get prepared:
- Work out where you’d like to go and
- Make sure your passport is valid and contact the consulate of the country you’d like to work in. Each country has different criteria and visa requirements you’ll need to meet to qualify for international employment.
- Save for your trip―call us and we’ll help you set up a savings account so you’ll have enough to get you settled overseas and something to fall back on if you need it.
- Consider searching online for organisations that can help bundle your travel and work needs. Some companies can place you in an overseas job, organise your airfares and help arrange travel insurance. But be sure to do your own research too.
- isit your dentist and doctor to make sure you’re in good health. And speak with your health fund so you know what they’ll cover when you’re away. Just in case!
- Call us on 131 267 about protecting your super before you go. If you’re paid superannuation in an overseas job, you’ll need to know how to get it once you’re back home. And depending on how long you’re away, your super could end up being deemed lost―if that happens your money may stop earning interest, which could set you back financially down the track.
- Speak with us and an accountant before you head off. They can help you to work out whether any HECS arrangements will be affected if you’re working outside Australia, and run through the tax implications of earning money overseas.
Bon voyage!
Working overseas can be a great way to travel and build your skills and experience.
So if this is on your radar, start by speaking to your financial adviser to get your finances in order before you head off.
[1] https://careers.anu.edu.au/students/gaining_experience/overseas_study_work.
Produced by AMP Life Limited and published on 21 July 2015. Original article.
© AMP Life Limited. This provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account. It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, AMP does not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, AMP does not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person.
